Today we’d like to introduce you to Katie DeShan.
Hi Katie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Basically about two-years ago, I was working full-time as a performer, and while I loved it, I also wanted to challenge myself creatively so I applied to work-from-home as a Personal Stylist for the Clothing Subscription Company Stitch Fix. I was hired and then began to split my time, more like 70/30, between performing and styling. Fast-forward to April 2020, I was put on furlough with my performing job but continued to work-from-home for Stitch Fix.
It was so nice to have more time to dedicate to my clients and to learning more about the company, I was wanting to eventually transition into being a Styling Team Lead or Buyer. I was not only working as a stylist for the company once COVID hit, I was also working as part of the Quality Assurance Team. Sadly, in June I was laid-off from Stitch Fix without any warning. The lay-off impacted all of the California labor for the company, we cost too much I guess…I was really depressed about it, so I pouted for a few weeks, which included writing things like “HOW COULD YOU FIRE 1400 PEOPLE WITHOUT ANY NOTICE” on Stitch Fix Instagram posts….then immediately delete it. Now fast forward again to July when I got inspired by a few of my fellow ex-Stitch Fix stylists who used their knowledge and creativity to start their own Wardrobe Consulting or Styling business. I spent two-months doing trial-style sessions over Zoom with friends, frantically texting my other amazing friends who run their own businesses, then I launched my website in September! Now I average about 2-4 new clients a week. They find me on Facebook, Instagram, Google, and a handy app called Thumbtack. It’s been so refreshing to connect with people all over the country during a time where many of us feel so isolated.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It’s been fun, but definitely not smooth. A lot of the struggle comes from just getting your name out there in a field that is full of competent and wonderful artists. Competition is the thief of joy, is that the saying? Once I sort of moved past comparing myself to established stylists, I was able to figure out what made me special and what I was personally bringing to the table.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a Personal Stylist and Shopper, also known in some circles as a Wardrobe Consultant. My job is basically to help clients look and feel their best. I help my clients strengthen their relationship with clothing and pinpoint a Personal Style that feels unique, stream-lined, and true to a client’s lifestyle. I specialize in Closet Therapy and Wardrobe Audits, meaning, before I shop with or for my clients, I like to have them take a look at what they already own! Then I work with them to reimagine how they wear their clothing. A lot of times, this means mixing and matching pieces a client wouldn’t normally pair together and purging pieces that no longer fit a client’s style needs or lifestyle. By the end of my sessions, I love to break down my client’s Personal Style into one descriptive sentence. For myself, I say ‘my style is simple classic meets trendy.’ I’m most proud of my amazing clients, after our sessions they always seem refreshed and ready to take on the world of fashion. I think what sets me apart is the fact that I founded this business during a time where personal connections are more difficult than ever. I had to build around the physical barriers of a global pandemic and find another way to connect with my clients.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
My advice is to never be afraid to ask questions. In the beginning, I was so afraid of comparing myself to other stylists, and then I realized we are all in this together and our client base is vast because everyone needs clothing! I networked with friends and met virtually with a few established stylists from all over the country. They had such great advice for me and really welcomed me into their community. Instead of viewing them as competition, I view them as members of the same community all working toward the same goal: to make fashion accessible and unique for every client!
Pricing:
- $150-Personal Shopping + a 90-Minute Full Closet Audit
- $100 Two-Rounds of Personal Shopping
- $75 60-Minute Virtual Mini-Session
- $50-$200 Gift Cards Available
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.stylebykd.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/style.by.kd/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/personalstylingbyKD
- Other: https://www.thumbtack.com/ca/los-angeles/fashion-stylists/style-by-kd/service/400364119414136840
Image Credits
MGH Photography and Rebel Fern Photography
