Mastering Your Style: A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Outfits

Many of us associate stylists with fashion shows, celebrities, and makeover TV programs, often considering such services a luxury beyond reach. However, making an impression and cultivating a unique style is a universal desire, often requiring expert guidance. We had the pleasure of speaking with Irina Shabashova, a professional stylist, buyer, and owner of the premium clothing store Anteprima, about her journey into the profession, common image issues women face, and how clothing can transform the perceived age, figure, and life of her clients.

From Passion to Profession

Irina’s fascination with fashion began as a hobby and evolved into a lifelong career. After completing her initial education in Tomsk, she pursued a degree in Fashion Promotion at Istituto Marangoni in Milan. Despite the opportunity to stay in Italy, Irina chose to return to Tomsk to open her gallery, introducing her hometown to contemporary designers and brands. She consciously avoided mainstream luxury brands, opting instead to take a risk and stay true to her vision. Her gallery has now been thriving for three years, with Irina serving as director, buyer, and stylist. Additionally, she runs an online store and a blog offering style advice for successful women.

Common Style Dilemmas

The most frequent issue Irina encounters is the classic “wardrobe full of clothes, but nothing to wear” dilemma. This problem can stem from life changes or a wardrobe filled with statement pieces that don’t complement each other. The overarching goal for many women is to achieve a luxurious look, which often requires more than just purchasing high-end brands. True style comes from skillfully combining pieces that suit the individual.

Solving Style Problems

Irina’s approach involves assessing the current wardrobe, identifying occasions for outfits, and planning purchases accordingly. She emphasizes the importance of basic pieces, which are often lacking in clients’ wardrobes. As a consultant, her goal is to educate clients on selecting, combining, and appreciating their unique features and the world of fashion.

Understanding the Client

While physical characteristics are important, Irina places greater emphasis on how women perceive themselves and their bodies. She works with each client’s individual preferences, helping them highlight their strengths and conceal their perceived flaws. Additionally, she considers the client’s lifestyle, which is often overlooked by other stylists and typing systems.

Visual Corrections and Style Tools

Irina offers numerous tools and techniques for visually correcting figures and emphasizing assets. Her recent masterclass on figure correction teaches women to view their bodies and clothing as a constructor set, allowing for endless possibilities. Two key pieces of advice she offers are: avoid highlighting areas you dislike, and accentuate your strengths.

Transforming Lives Through Style

Changing one’s image can significantly impact how others perceive and interact with you. Irina’s role is to eliminate unnecessary associations and contexts from her clients’ images, ensuring all elements work in their favor. By dressing consciously and understanding the message their outfits convey, women can appear more successful, impressive, and vibrant.

For instance, Irina worked with an elegant, mature client who received an unexpected comment from a friend about looking older. The client was holding a crocodile skin bag, a luxurious and status symbol that can add years to one’s appearance. By replacing the bag and incorporating delicate denim pieces, which evoke dynamism and simplicity associated with youth and freedom, the client began receiving compliments and understood the importance of every detail in her outfit.