Picture this: It’s 2015, and I’m about to attend a high-profile work event that could potentially be career-changing. So, I decided to hit up a clearance sale at a local department store. I spot what I think is the most dashing suit in an eye-popping colour—bright orange.

Now, in my defence, I had recently watched “The Great Gatsby” and somehow convinced myself that I could totally pull off a Jay Gatsby vibe. Spoiler alert: I couldn’t.

From that day forward, I vowed never to trust my own fashion instincts again and sought the help of a professional stylist. Take it from me—finding the right personal stylist is worth every dollar.

With recommendations from friends and assistance from my colleagues at Top Review in checking them out, I compiled a list of Auckland’s top personal stylists who can transform your wardrobe and keep you looking your best.

How much does it cost to hire a personal stylist in Auckland?

If you want to hire a personal stylist in Auckland, expect to spend at least 125 NZD per hour. This price is just an estimate and will change depending on whether you get style packages and which stylist you work with.

How We Chose

Experience and portfolio: We looked into the stylists’ past works as they speak volumes about their ability to handle different styles and preferences.

Reviews and testimonials: We talked to previous clients and looked into various online reviews to gauge the stylists’ reliability and skills.

Communication skills: We selected stylists that listen to their client’s needs and offer suggestions without being pushy.

Flexibility and availability: We chose stylists who can accommodate their clients’ schedules and provide services that fit their lifestyles. 

1. Wardrobe Flair Personal Stylist & Personal Shopper

At Wardrobe Flair, Trudi Bennett crafts a bespoke fashion experience through comprehensive wardrobe consultations, refined personal shopping services, and transformative style makeovers.

During our visit, we saw how Trudi prioritises delving into the client’s lifestyle, body shape, and style preferences. The wardrobes she assembles go beyond mere clothing; they reflect each client’s unique persona.

Our interactions with her clientele paint a picture of a stylist who has mastered the art of instilling comfort and confidence, making clients feel genuinely content in their curated attire. 

Moreover, many commented on Trudi’s clear and upfront pricing and adaptable packages designed to cater to a spectrum of needs and financial limitations.

However, Trudi’s sought-after expertise means that sometimes securing an appointment may require patience. This could pose a slight challenge for those in a pinch for a quick style fix.

Customer Reviews

We all feel so much more confident going forward

“Having Trudi host a style party at my house is probably the best thing I have ever done. We all came away with such renewed energy and excitement and saw how much the right colours worked wonders on our body and why certain shapes /styles didn’t. We all feel so much more confident going forward. The wardrobe cleanout was so therapeutic and the personal shopping to get the small number of items I needed to pull everything together was fantastic. Such great focus, tips and combinations. Thank you for changing my life!!”

• Maria Bosman Google Review  

Loved the clothes and shoe shopping with Trudi

“Loved the clothes and shoe shopping with Trudi. Farewell 45 piece discard pile, welcome to 15 new items that fit together in my colour palette. Emptier wardrobe but more to wear. Shopping has never been so painless and enjoyable and productive. On a buzz after it. Clothes shopping used to be wandering around for ages and coming home with very little or nothing. Wish I had known this ages ago when I started to give up on ever finding smart casual outfits for my age (7 decades) and size (18 plus/minus 2) as I only had business and “home” clothes. Best birthday gift ever from my daughter and husband. Can’t wait to do it again for summer. You are a gem Trudi.”

• Anny Dentener Google Review 

2. Vlad Tichen Personal Styling

Vlad Tichen himself brings a discerning eye to every consultation, with an impressive ability to discern the perfect style fit for each individual. 

His services include everything from personal shopping assistance to all-encompassing style transformations, serving both men and women with equal finesse.

But Vlad reigns when it comes to sustainable fashion. He shared with us his vision for a world where style and sustainability are not mutually exclusive, advocating for thoughtful investment in long-lasting fashion essentials. 

He encourages clients to adopt a less-is-more mentality, focusing on quality over quantity. The authenticity of Vlad’s advice often translates into wardrobes that are not only stylish but also enduring and practical. 

Of course, some have noted that, while his honest approach is mostly appreciated, it can sometimes feel a tad too blunt, particularly for those new to the world of personal styling.

Additionally, there have been remarks about the need for clearer communication regarding appointment scheduling and follow-ups.

Customer Reviews

Vlad is an exceptional personal style consultant 

“Vlad is an exceptional personal style consultant in Auckland, transformed my wardrobe. His keen eye for detail and deep understanding of current fashion trends ensured that each piece he selected was both flattering and on-point. Vlad was patient, listening intently to my preferences and concerns, making the experience highly enjoyable. I highly recommend Vlad to anyone looking to elevate their personal style with a touch of professional expertise.”

• Vladimir Google Review 

His attention to detail and sense of style truly elevated my wardrobe

“Working with Vlad Tichen as my personal stylist, I must say, he exceeded my expectations. Vlad’s ability to understand my preferences and create outfits that perfectly suited me was impressive. His attention to detail and sense of style truly elevated my wardrobe. With Vlad’s expertise, I felt confident and stylish in every outfit he curated. His friendly demeanor and exceptional customer service made the entire experience enjoyable. I highly recommend Vlad Tichen to anyone looking for a personal stylist who can transform their style and boost their confidence.”

• Blake Tuke Google Review 

3. Kerry Finlay Style Coach

When we sat down with Kerry, her passion for fashion’s role in bolstering one’s confidence was evident. Her tailored offerings—wardrobe edits, custom shopping sprees, and enlightening style workshops—are all facets of her holistic methodology.

When we met with her, it was evident that she focused on understanding her client’s lifestyles and incorporating their personal ambitions into their attire. Despite not being the one to truly pick the clothes, many of her clients told us their outfits felt like them and what they wanted to become.

Kerry is also a staunch advocate for sustainable fashion, a conviction that we found deeply interwoven into her style ethos. Many love how she chooses items that not only look good but are also kind to our planet.

However, some people have remarked that her approach can occasionally be overwhelming, particularly for those not accustomed to such in-depth analysis of their personal style. 

A handful have also pointed out a desire for more budget-friendly options, noting that Kerry’s long-term investment pieces can sometimes stretch their financial comfort zones.

Customer Reviews

A really practical approach to what things to look for

“Kerry is amazing! The virtual style audit was just what I needed to understand what works and what doesn’t tailored to me. A really practical approach to what things to look for and how to fill my wardrobe gaps. Kerry is generous with her advice and sharing her expertise. Mostly the thing that stayed with me is how she made me feel special and enough, she’s got a lovely approachable nature and I felt really relaxed sharing with her. I ended the session buzzing. Highly recommend, I think Kerry’s advice is going to save me a lot of money!”

• Saskia Booiman Google Review 

I instantly felt comfortable with Kerry and found her style of coaching amazing

“I instantly felt comfortable with Kerry and found her style coaching amazing. The only con is that it had to end! Even though I didn’t have the worse of styles it has helped me to hone in and be sure of what looks good on my body type and in what colour. She even surprised me showing me different styles of jeans I could suit! So even if you think your style isn’t that bad I would still 100% recommend it, cause once it’s done you’ve got a handy email of your colours and what looks good on your body type for you to refer back to and keep your fashion style continuing on afterwards! Very beneficial and life altering stuff! :)”

• Annalise Wood Google Review 

4. Johanna-May Personal Stylist & Activewear

Johanna-May Personal Stylist & Activewear caters to the fashion-forward, health-conscious individual, bridging the gap between active and everyday styles with flair.

Her expert services span from wardrobe consultations and personal shopping excursions to empowering custom styling sessions.

People come to her for clothing advice that’s as intelligent as it is stylistically sound. Her bits of advice are focused on helping her clients move seamlessly from their workout to their workday without sacrificing style or comfort.

Her magnetic charm and dedicated approach to her clients’ lifestyles and preferences are evident in every consultation. Many have commented on how she makes fashion for them fun and practical. 

However, some have noted that the blend of activewear with work fashion sometimes leads to style suggestions that occasionally feel too casual for certain professional environments.

Also, Johanna-May’s enthusiasm for vibrant patterns and colours has been overwhelming for those with more subdued tastes, who may prefer neutrals.

Customer Reviews

Boosts your own confidence knowing you look great

“After my wife used Johanna’s services to overhaul her wardrobe, my wife insisted that I work with Johanna as well. I’m certainly glad I did! Totally overhauled my wardrobe from formal to casual.

Not only that, it really opened my eyes to what looks smart! Once a few things are pointed out to you (e.g. how clothes should fit, colours, etc) then you begin to notice why other smart looking people look so good!

Yes, you shouldn’t judge people on what they wear, but it’s only natural that people do this and first impressions last. What’s fantastic is it boosts your own confidence knowing you look great!”

• Tony Baker Google Review 

She has helped me completely re-vamp and modernise my look

“Johanna-May was a delight to work with! It’s a vulnerable experience inviting someone to explore the dark secrets of your wardrobe – the impulse buys, the too tight items, the outfits once-loved but now dated. But from the moment I stepped into her beautiful home studio I felt I was in safe hands. Johanna-May brought a calm, positive energy to the process and I never felt criticised, only encouraged with her gentle “I think we can do better”. She has helped me completely re-vamp and modernise my look, and I’m getting so many comments on my new outfits. I am really glad I made the investment and chose Johanna-May to help me!”

• Monica Ayers Google Review 

5. Chasing Cait – Style Coach & Personal Stylist

Caitlin Taylor, the heart and soul of the brand, infuses her extensive experience and fashion-forward vision into every aspect of her service.

From full-scale wardrobe overhauls to insightful personal shopping trips and even interactive style workshops, Caitlin is praised for her approachable and down-to-earth style guidance. 

She even extends her expertise virtually, broadening her styling reach beyond physical boundaries.

During our conversation, it became clear that she sees style as an exciting and accessible luxury. Her approach is all about demystifying fashion, showing that it’s for everyone, regardless of budget or body type.

Many we spoke to also love how classy-chic her fashion sense is, creating looks that blend trendy high-street finds with timeless wardrobe staples.

Nevertheless, some we spoke to occasionally feel a few of her trend-driven recommendations don’t always align with their personal style. A few also mentioned that adjusting to the reality of virtual consultations took some getting used to.

Customer Reviews

Personable, knowledgeable and just an all-round fab cheerleader

“Cait was an absolute gem to deal with! She is personable, knowledgeable and just an all round fab cheerleader and shopping partner. I felt at ease around her, despite my size, likes and dislikes and quirks. She challenged me in the best way to reconsider some preconceived ideas about myself and my style and I’m so happy I took the time to learn more from her.”

• Tersia van der Merwe Google Review  

 I feel so differently about my clothes – it was the kick in the arse I needed

“Caitlin is amazing. She helped me with a wardrobe audit and we talked about my style personality. As a result, I feel so differently about my clothes – it was the kick in the arse I needed. Honestly, I am looking at my wardrobe in a whole new way and I LOVE that she gave new life to things I ALREADY had. That part was hugely valuable for me. Her post-audit service and the links Caitlin sends you afterwards are hugely helpful. Would recommend (and have raved endlessly!) to anyone, 100%.”

• Michelle Howie Google Review 

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