Ever tire of shopping? With so many local boutiques and sprawling malls just begging to be explored, swiping our plastic(s) often feels like a thrilling sport – one that can quickly turn exhausting in the face of crowds and a time crunch. So here’s where a personal shopper comes in handy. Hiring one isn’t just a luxury – it’s a lifesaver for when you need a major wardrobe overhaul in a jiffy or can’t seem to assemble stunning ensembles for big occasions. Keep reading to find out why you might need one; we even give you the a low-down on the best personal shoppers in Singapore!
Why hire a personal shopper?
We know what you’re thinking: Why hire someone to shop for you when you can do it yourself? Sure you can, but there’s a reason (or many reasons) why this service is so covetable. For the time-strapped, you’ll be grateful for a personal shopper’s efficiency and connections. A luxe bag with a never-ending wait-list? Snag it in record time. New to the city and can’t figure out the best underground boutiques? Don’t sweat it – the experts know the best around. Most importantly, think of this as viewing your style through a fresh pair of eyes. Your personal shopper will fill in the gaps in your wardrobe and dole out handy advice on figure-flattering style based on your preferences, physique and budget.
How much does it cost?
It differs. Major stores like Topshop and Robinsons Orchard offer personalised shopper services for free, while image consultants-slash-personal shoppers can charge from $200 and above for an hour (with a minimum number of hours involved).
How does it work?
At major stores, service is uncomplicated; simply book an appointment online and watch as your personal shopper pulls options for you based on your requests. You’ll also receive insider previews of new collections, and tips and tricks in dressing for a myriad of occasions. As with image consultants, service is highly personalised; they’ll determine your needs based on your lifestyle and preferences, analyse your body type and go on a shopping spree with you, showing you the ropes of choosing the right fabrics, cuts and style.
Where can I find one?
Surprisingly, Singapore does have its fair share of personal shopper services. Read the list below for the full low-down.
Topshop
It’s a dream come true that our favourite high street store is now dishing out style secrets on pulling off that envy-worthy It Brit look. The premium shopping service gives clients access to newest collections, styling advice and sneak peeks into the hottest trends of the moment. To get shopping, simply book an appointment online and choose the occasion (these range from Honeymoons, Mother-Daughter, to The Big Wow). Lead image and above features Sarah Haymes, Personal Shopping Manager of Topshop UK.
Cost: Free
Topshop Personal Shopping is available at the ION Orchard, Knightsbridge and VivoCity outlets.
Robinsons Orchard
We’ve yet to find a hipper department store than Robinsons Orchard. Aside from its massive range of brands (including local-based, indie ones), the store deserves major brownie points for its personal shopper service. Exclusively for OCBC Robinsons Group cardmembers, the pros will do all the legwork – simply tell them what you need and they’ll have options and expert style advice waiting for you. All you need to do? Flex that plastic (though of course, no pressure is involved in purchasing the goods).
Cost: Free
Robinsons Personal Shopper Service is only available at its Heeren outlet, 260 Orchard Road, Singapore 238855.
Club 21
Ever wanted to shop like royalty? Home-grown luxury behemoth, Club 21, is the right place to be. The one-on-one, by-appointment-only service is only available to guests of Four Seasons Hotel. Clients have the option of a tailored styling consultation in the plush comforts of their rooms, or in any of the city’s boutiques. With a clientele of discerning style mavens, the $300 price tag is no surprise (and a mere drop in the ocean if you’re dropping thousands on designer goods).
Cost: $300
Club 21 Personal Style Services. Make an appointment via Club 21, p. 6304 1388 and mention the Personal Shopper Service or contact the Four Seasons Hotel Concierge, p. 6831 7334.
Image and Me
Decade-old Image and Me is all about personal branding for professional success. Much like your average personal shopping sesh, lifestyle needs, preferences and style will first be taken into account, before shopping begins. The consultants will then work their magic and show you how to purchase quality goods, mix designer and high street items as well as classic pieces with trendy looks. You’ll leave the session armed with a newfound style savviness and a highly functional, versatile wardrobe.
Cost: Price available upon request
Image and Me, 136 C, #01-01, Hillview Avenue, Lobby 1, Singapore 669608.
Julia Blank
A renowned name in the expat community, personal stylist, Julia Blank, has been transforming the wardrobes of Singapore-based working professionals in the nine years she’s relocated from New York City. Her personal shopping service is no less than thorough – the session begins with an interview to nail down your needs, lifestyle and budget. She’ll then analyse your body types, and suss out your likes and dislikes of your physique to determine what to flaunt or hide, before pinning down a style. The shopping spree then commences where you’ll learn how to choose the right cuts and fabrics to flatter your shape.
Cost: $225 per hour (minimum three hours)
Julia Blank, p. 9751 1694, e. juliarblank@gmail.com.
The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands
Specially for VIP customers of the luxury mall, the Personal Shopping experience here is tailored to suit various needs. But the service doesn’t stop at outfits – exclusive hair and makeup appointments can be arranged to complete your ensemble. Bonus: Clients will be treated to a complimentary Scent Profiling by Penhaligon’s and high tea at TWG Tea Salon and Boutique after the session. How’s that for serious retail therapy?
Cost: $250 per session for a maximum of three hours. A $250 voucher is redeemable with minimum spend of $1000.
Personal Shopping Style Service at The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands, 10 Bayfront Avenue, Singapore 018956.