I am NOT the Original Poster. That is 50shadesof_brown. She posted in r/AusFemaleFashion.

Very light, low-stakes post but a nice palate cleanser. Thanks to u/Brophages for the rec!

Do NOT comment on Original Posts. Latest update is 7 days old

Mood Spoiler: happy ending

Original Post: June 11, 2024

Title: Is there still an audience for wardrobe organising and decluttering?

I’m a professional marketer for over a decade and people have always asked me for style tips and advice.

In my spare time I help my friends organise their wardrobes and create capsule wardrobes (I even created a whole PDF mood board for someone just wanting to know what blazers to buy!) - all free of charge of course.

After SO many of my friends, and colleagues nudging me, I want to see whether I can make some money on this.

BUT since I’m a marketer and I work with retail businesses, I know we are in secret recession and people’s buying power has plummeted. The purchasing behaviour has also changed with average cart prices dropping double digit percentages.

So my question is, do you reckon there’s still a market available for this type of service? I’m specifically thinking wardrobe curation than editorial styling.

OOP's Comment:

Commenter: I'm going to try to be honest without being too negative.

I think the challenge OP would have is specifically actually getting their foot in the door. Why would sone wealthy person take a chance on someone without a proven track record?

OP has mostly done things for free, once you start charging  people that expect a certain level of service. I'm not saying OP doesn't have the skills but OP but OP hasn't really mentioned any experience actually  "selling her service".

If her friends were like, sure I'll pay you to come and redo my wardrobe, or if any of the people nudging were willing to pay for the service. Then it would maybe put more weight into their words of encouragement.

In no way am I trying to discourage OP, if that's what OP wanted to persue it's great.  However, I'd suggest maybe figuring it out as a side gig and growing your reputation. Be realistic and smart about it.

OOP: Oh yes I completely get you!
But yes, people have offered me money to personal shop for them for events - since it was within my network I’ve declined because honestly I just enjoyed shopping hahaha.
Again, I understand your point and that’s the exact advice I would give my clients in marketing.
The point of this post is to understand whether there is a market for it in 2024 :)

Other top comments:

Smooth_Strength_9914: There probably is a small market of wealthy people who can afford this. But for your average person on an average income with mortgage and kids etc, it’s probably a luxury that they can’t justify spending money on atm.

windy_wolf: It's something I would consider, especially since I always reach for the same things in my closet and forget what else I have.

It would be nice to be able to see your personal style as well, on insta for eg, like an ootd or a flatlay. No need to tag brands or anything. I'm more likely to engage someone who I think looks stylish, or has a similar style to one I want.

Also, I've seen alot of posts on this sub by mums who want support with their post-pregnancy wardrobe and also some who have returned to the office after a break. Could be worth looking into.

HurstbridgeLineFTW: This is something that would benefit me. I have a massive amount of clothing, in part because i love op-shopping. I have to turn over summer and winter clothing in my wardrobes, and I often forget what I have.

But parting with a few hundred dollars for this service is a big hurdle. It might be more tempting when I’m at a juncture in life; like downsizing to an apartment or embarking on a new career.

Update Post 1: October 13, 2024 (4 months later)

Title: Asked for your opinion; here’s an update!

A few months ago (while toying with this idea!) I posted here asking whether starting a wardrobe organising/refresh/styling business would have legs.

It had mixed responses, mostly with comments raising valid criticism OR concerns. A few of you souls cheered the idea on!

I just wanted to post a quick update to say that I went ahead with my intuition and did it anyway! Eeek.

I had the wonderful opportunity already to work with a couple of new moms who needed help with sorting their wardrobes (and creating a capsule wardrobe etc). Once I put myself out there I realised how many people actually were interested (?) which is wild to me.

It was SO rewarding - I’m so glad I did it.

My strength has always been utilising what you already have to create outfits and not necessarily buying a whole new wardrobe (unless 100% needed) - which works wonders during this economic downturn.

Thank you everyone for your thoughts and support, I’m barely starting but as a full time lurker of this sub, I am super appreciative.

Update Post 2: January 21, 2025 (3 months later, 7 from OG post)

Title: The 'Final' update, thank you for the encouragement!

7 months ago, I took a leap of faith and turned my passion project into a monetised business.

A few friends had been nudging me to make it official, so I came to this subreddit to ask for feedback and advice. I got some really encouraging responses, and even more constructive criticism, which I really appreciated. Here's my first post

I decided to dive right in and took a break from my tech marketing job! Lol. By the end of December, I had worked with over 10 clients! All referrals, and some even from this subreddit (thank you to those who helped spread the word). I didn’t even have a website at the time!

I posted an update here a few months ago (second post here) while I was still figuring things out. Once I put myself out there, I realised just how many people were interested in this service, which totally surprised me.

The best part? I’ve always believed in the power of utilising what you already have in your wardrobe, rather than buying new things (unless absolutely necessary). It’s so fulfilling to see how that approach resonates, especially during this economic downturn.

I just launched my website two days ago, and I’m feeling so legit right now! Here’s my website if you would like to have a look: https://www.cammystyles.com.au/

Thank you again to everyone who supported me, I'm barely starting, but I couldn't have done it without the advice and positivity from this community.

Some of OOP's Comments:

Commenter: Love this so much! But be careful here, while it’s not against the rule some people can get quite spicy about self promotion here. I learnt the hard way. But me - I’m off to check out your website!

OOP: Aw thank you for the heads up! 😭 and appreciate you having a look at my website x

Commenter: Well done for getting out of your comfort zone and trying something new xx

OOP: Thank you!!! Yes, getting out of my marketing rut was a life changing experience x

Commenter: Fantastic website - pity you’re not in Qld!

OOP: Thank you so much, built it myself 😭 Oh, I lived in Brissy for 10 years before moving to Melbs so QLD will always have a special place in my heart. I do offer virtual sessions, and maybe in the future when my client list grows I’ll definitely pay a visit :)

Commenter: Congratulations! This looks incredible and great reminder to love the pieces already in my closet as well. Might need your help eventually 😅

OOP: Thank you! And yes! This is the biggest thing I’m trying to reinforce. I recently helped someone create 20+ new outfits with her existing clothes, no purchases. We even decluttered. So gratifying - and yes always a message away if you need help 🫶🏾