What is personal shopping really like? My Topshop experience

One thing I love is clothes, but I hate shopping. I despise it. I can’t think of anything worse than traipsing round boiling hot shops with people getting in my way whilst I’m looking at a playsuit wondering if I can squeeze into a six because it’s in the sale. My solution? Get a personal shopper.

Nothing stresses me out more than the thought of going shopping. There are too many racks of clothes, not enough time and far too many manic shoppers. I much prefer internet shopping from the comfort of my bed, snuggled up in my pyjamas with a cup of tea. The only problem being that you can’t try things on online and it’s a nightmare trying to send things back when it doesn’t fit right. I’m a serial hoarder and I’ve never sent anything back. I usually struggle to sell it on Depop for a fraction of the price months later. I’ve got about 30 parcels in the pantry that I’ve forgotten to send back and now it’s too late!

I got in touch with Topshop about their personal shopping experience, explaining that I was looking for glittery party outfits and they were happy to help me find the perfect outfit (or eight).

The day before my appointment, Topshop phoned me to ask what sizes I would need, what kind of look I was going for, and whether there was anything I was uncomfortable about in terms of my body. I thought that was really sweet and considerate as, whilst I’m pretty body confident, not everyone is. It means that if you didn’t want to get their legs out, or show a little chest, then Topshop would take that into account when handpicking your outfits.

When I arrived I store, my personal shopper, Liv, sat me down to ask a few questions and take me through the outfits she’d picked out for me. There was so much glitter and sparkle, which is spot on for the season and she’d captured my image perfectly.

I was a little apprehensive about some of the pieces, as they weren’t necessarily choices that I would have made myself, but that’s what is great about a personal shopper. They are people who don’t know you, or your usual style, with a completely objective view and a degree in their field. They know what they’re doing, what’s in this season and what you’re going to look good in.

Personal Shopping outfit one

The first outfit I tried on was a metallic co-ord set, with long wide-leg trousers and a high necked crop with cowl detailing. The trousers are something I would have picked out myself, but I tend to avoid a cowl neck. That being said, it looked and felt great on and the pieces look great together, even if it is a little bold. The light, loose material isn’t restrictive or uncomfortable, so you can dance the night away in it. They are part of the LOVE concession, and together cost £66.

Personal shopping outfit two

I was really excited about the next outfit as I am obsessed with velvet. I fell in love with these velvet flared trousers, they make you feel so sassy, and paired with the right top, look amazing. When I was at my personal shopping appointment, they were surprisingly inexpensive at £22 and I bagged them a few weeks later in the sale. You may have spotted me wearing them in this post.

Personal Shopping outfit three

A trend I’m a big fan of is wearing dresses over shirts and t-shirts, and I am totally here for it. This glitzy sheer top layered with a strappy leather mini dress is a great party twist on a classic look. Liv paired it with open toe sock boots and a slouchy bag for a slightly more casual approach. In total, this outfit sets you back around £120.

Personal Shopping outfit four

The next get up was certainly adventurous for me. I tend to sway towards a black and burgundy colour palette, but it was fun to play around with other colours that I don’t normally put myself in. This blue skirt looks like weathered leather, but it’s actually velvet! Teamed up with a shimmered detail bralet and blazer, you can look both cute and classy. In total, this outfit costs £118, which includes the gorgeous RARE embellished bag.

Personal Shopping outfit five

I desperately wanted to love these black vinyl trousers, but they just weren’t doing it for me. Stood still, they look cool, but the second you want to walk the backs of your knees squeak like a rubber chicken. They weren’t for me, but I’m glad Liv got me to try them on, else I’d never have known, but hey, if you can rock them, you go girl.

Personal Shopping outfit six

I struggle to find dresses that are different and I adore, but this sparkly number was love at first sight. The metallic wrap skater dress is so flattering, and its balloon sleeves give it an extra bit of detail. The subtle embellishments in the heels look gorgeous at the back and match the detailing on the leather clutch. Mum and Dad ended up treating me to this little beauty.

Personal Shopping outfit seven

Liv saved the best for last, pulling out a skirt and top combo that I could wear anytime, anyplace. A leather skirt with zip detailing paired with a sheer top over a velvet bodysuit. It’s so simple, yet so effective and I would have never thought to layer these two tops, so I’m really grateful for my personal shopper pointing it out. This outfit only costs £60, so half of some of the more extravagant looks. I bagged the glittery crop and bodysuit, but ended up getting a similar skirt cheaper in Primark (I’m a student, okay?)

Having a personal shopper was so worth it. Liv styled me in a variety of ways and was honest with me on what she thought looked best. I had completed my experience in 75 minutes and didn’t have to search for my size, tackle the  crowds, or be in and out of the changing rooms every two minutes. Everything was just in my little room laid out all neat and ready for me. This really made my try-on experience relaxing and stress-free. Having the experience means that I can now go shopping with an open-mind to different styles and colours, and be more confident in my choices. Shopping will no longer be hell for me, but a fun and enjoyable experience.