September Issue
kiin x Stylist Jordie Samerson
Jordie Samerson knows how to make a woman feel beautiful…
She and I met in 2012 when I was shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue. I had some important events coming up that I needed help with finding suitable cocktail dresses for each occasion. There was this dynamic, gorgeous, tall, model-like woman dressed to the nines walking around the Alexander McQueen section who caught my eye. She was moving to and from the dressing room, her arms overflowing with dresses. Judging from how she was dressed, and her general vibe, I knew this was a stylist I wanted to meet. I went up to her, introduced myself, and the rest is history. We became fast friends and I trust her implicitly to recommend the right something-something...
Not only are the pieces Jordie choses appropriate for particular events, she also has the magic ability to select things that I feel great in. With her help and unique way of supporting you while trying things on, she makes sure you choose the items that make you feel your best. She knows how to highlight a woman’s best features… and makes you feel beautiful. That said, she’s also honest. She won’t tell you you look great if you don’t. She truly cares and wants you to be happy with the results.
I feel like our approach to clients is similar. We both “style” holistically. She dresses people, and I dress rooms, but both of us get to know our clients personally, asking them the right questions and taking note of what they like… and how certain pieces make them feel.
Jordie and I have kept in touch all these years and I not only value her opinion, but also our friendship.
Please read on to “meet” Jodie in our interview...
X Carolyn
kiin Picks
I N T E R V I E W
How many years have you been a stylist/personal shopper in New York City?
I have been working in luxury retail for 23 years, but 18 years as a stylist/personal shopper.
Who are your typical clients? How would you describe their profile?
My typical clients are men and women in their mid-forties and up. The majority live in the Upper East Side, are married with children, and have a high net worth.
What is your styling process/philosophy?
My styling philosophy is: buy clothes that make you want to strut down the street. If you don't feel comfortable in what you're wearing, it shows in your face and your demeanor.
How do you get to know your clients and what kind of questions do you ask?
I like to know my clients lifestyle, so I will ask about their profession, what they do on the weekend, if they have children or not, if they are married or single. This way I have a better understanding of their needs and I am able to guide them. However, I like to get to know my clients organically through natural conversations while we have fun in our styling/shopping appointments. When trying on an outfit the first question I ask is: “How do you feel?” It is important that they feel fabulous in what they are wearing… it always projects on their face and attitude!
5. How would you describe your own personal style?
My personal style is classic-chic with an edge. I have found that investing in solid, non-trendy designer pieces goes a long way. I have so many Alexander McQueen, Balmain, and Lanvin pieces that are classic-edgy; they will always look “new” for years to come. I also like to collect vintage pieces on my travels… my favorite city to find vintage goodies is in Paris, of course!
6. What are the current trends you are seeing?
Going into Fall ‘22, we are seeing baggy denims (although I still prefer skinny jeans any day!), oversized bombers, textured knits are must-have… this season Dries Von Noten and Marni have a few fun ones! For mixed media trenches, or a classic trench, make a trip to Burberry for their deconstructed plaid! Loafers are making a comeback as well, as are long and short pleated skirts… The punk era is making a return! Anything leather is always a good complement to any fall/winter look.
7. Since COVID, have you noticed a shift in your clients' social lives/priorities? Are women looking for more loungewear/casual and less cocktail/evening?
Post-COVID lockdown there was an interesting shift of men shopping while women sat on the sidelines. As time passed by, it shifted back to women shopping again as more events opened up. Engagements, weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs were on the forefront of event shopping. Designers can't have enough cocktail/evening gowns, and they are increasingly hard to find with companies still suffering from late shipments and less inventory. Now that people are traveling again, they are dying to show off their looks. Comfort-chic has definitely made a long-lasting imprint on shopping. The sneaker is one of the most important accessories every season, and if you don't have a strong collection now, you’ll certainly be building one soon.
8. What is the most requested item for "lounging" at home?
The most requested item now for lounging at home is comfy pants. I recommend silk pajama sets that can be worn out with a pair of heels or at home for entertaining. Lanvin had the perfect set this past season with a butterfly/floral motif that my clients went crazy for!
9. How would you style the perfect entertaining-at-home outfit?
The perfect entertaining-at-home outfit is a knit dress or silk pants with a beautiful top. I love to look at Brunello Cucinelli for items like these since their fabrics are impeccable; classic, but chic with a twist. Again: investment pieces!
10. Are most of your clients working virtually, and if so, what is their wardrobe like today compared to when they actually went to an office?
Most of my clients are either working hybrid or fully back to the office and have resumed their business travels. Female clients are starting to look for dresses that are more of a business-casual. Same for men: business-casual. Men want to wear sneakers with their slacks and button-downs.
11. Have you seen a big change in the retail environment/spending habits?
Retail has changed, as has the demographic. We have more urban clients purchasing sneakers and t-shirts… lots of logos. They are looking for the best and newest from each luxury brand. They want to be the first to have anything new as soon as it launches, which is creating a much higher demand across the board. It's wonderful to see such a mix of clients in the stores now, but I would say the urban community, with the streetwear culture, is what is keeping brands afloat.'
12. As you have watched your repeat, loyal customers evolve, and their kids get older, how have their personal styles changed?
I have helped some of my clients for over ten years. I have dressed them for many important occasions: Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, weddings, milestone birthdays, vacations, extravagant Hampton parties. My clients love fashion and have a similar style to me; they will always stick to what is the most comfortable and flattering, but certainly with an edge. They travel and still attend galas. For their personal lives, they opt for the Loro Piana cashmere sets and know that they will go to good use.
13. What is the best advice you can give a woman in order to feel beautiful and confident at any age?
The best advice I can give a woman in order to feel beautiful and confident is to start from the inside. Eat nourishing foods, exercise, and stay hydrated because no matter what you put on, you will always radiate how you feel within.
14. What is the best way for someone to contact you if they'd like to request your styling services?
The best way to contact me for any requests is through my website: www.jordiesamerson.com .