New services are available
locally that can update your
wardrobe, improve your image
and make fashion inferiority
complexes a thing of the past.

S

earching for the
right image and
feeling comfor-
table in new
clothing are different
issues. Luckily, local ser-
vices have emerged
helping consumers shop
and build a wardrobe
programmed for success.
Whether you're in the
business field or part of
the volunteer staff, person-
alized shoppers are the
perfect answer for busy
people. They do all the
legwork for consumers
who have neither the time
nor the inclination to
shop. Among person-
alized shopping clients
are business-people, sports players,
new graduates entering the working
force and the elderly. Personalized
shoppers will help anyone interested
in updating a wardrobe and an image.
Some shoppers use the services to
answer fashion etiquette questions.
What color hose? What skirt length
is appropriate? What tie do I wear
with a hunter green suit?

IN SEARCH
OF STYLE

■

BY CARLA JEAN SCHWARTZ

Locally there are three
types of personalized
shoppers. Major depart-
ment stores usually offer
this service. Specialty
boutique shops provide
individual attention. Lastly,
there are professional
image consultants who
advise men and women
on how to develop a
fashion foward look. The
department stores and
boutiques usually offer
this service at no cost,
while image consultants
have a fee.
Hudson's department
stores have the FYI
department. "We provide
lifestyle kind of shopping,
once the client has made the initial
contact," said Judy Ivey, FYI director.
Ms. Ivey explained that her staff has
an intimate knowledge of the store's
inventory and is able to provide a
complete look — from a suit to a
whole new wardrobe. (The Northland
store has 10 FYI consultants on staff.)
Since Hudson's is a full service store
with many departments, the FYI

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