Ask a Stylist: Lin

At Garbarini, Lin does it all from styling to consulting and marketing. When you work with her, you'll become more than a client but a close friend. She prides herself on getting to know her clients on a personal level so she can find them the pieces she knows they'll wear forever. It's not about the labels. It's about feeling comfortable and confident in what you're wearing.

Get to know Garbarini stylist Lin.


Q: Who is your typical client?

A: I have amazing clients! They're modern, fashion-forward, and active. Though they range in age and professions, they all want to look and feel their best.

 

Q: What's the process when a client comes to the store to meet with you?

A: When meeting a client for the first time, I ask several questions and assign a little bit of homework.

Are comfort and ease most important, or do they need professional looks? Do they travel a lot? It's helpful for me to know what the client's typical day looks like and their priorities so I can pull pieces accordingly.

Their homework is to share three looks that appeal to them. Once I have an idea of what they're attracted to, I pull a rack of complementary pieces in their size. I always emphasize that they must love the pieces they choose! I am not interested in filling a closet; I want to find the items they love and will wear over and over.

 

Q: What's your style philosophy?

A: I love great quality basics — it's the easiest way to build a wardrobe and, surprisingly, the best way to showcase your style. A classic, tailored white blouse can be styled in at least a dozen different ways, and you can play up your accessories when wearing basics. I also believe in tailoring. A great fit can make the simplest piece look custom and luxe.

 

Q: Who is your favorite designer?

A: I am a huge Robert Rodriguez fan. We carried his signature collection at the shop years ago, and I'm so excited he is the lead designer for Halston now. I cannot wait for these pieces to hit the shop!

 

Q: What are 3 essentials you think every woman should have in her closet?

A: It's hard to limit the essentials to just three. Obviously, every woman should own an LBD along with jeans, a white button blouse, a denim shirt, a blazer, and a leather jacket. Classics are classic for a reason — they work!

 

Q: Are there any emerging designers we should be following?

A: Always! But I am most excited when our buying team finds someone new, and we can get their clothing in the store. Smythe was one of those designers for us. I'm so pleased to have blazers that break the mold but fit into any closet available at Garbarini.

 

Q: What winter staples should women have in their closets?

A: A versatile boot, gorgeous cashmere sweater, and this year, a boyfriend jacket.

 

Q: What should women look for when buying a coat?

A: When buying a coat, women should pay attention to quality and fit. Coats are typically an investment piece and should be able to be worn for several years. Your lifestyle should also be taken into consideration when you're shopping for a coat. Are you in and out of cars all day? Do you prefer the ease of not having a belt? Mackage makes some of our most beautiful pieces — tailored, beautiful, and an investment that you'll always appreciate.

 

Q: If women are interested in shopping sustainably, what do you think they should look for?

A: Since I was in high school, my mantra has always been quality over quantity. The OG in sustainability! Yes, some amazing companies put work into this, but there is still a long way to go for most. Also, I don't believe in one-hit wonders. Pieces must be able to be worn in more than one way and should be able to stand up to frequent use.

 

Q: What fashion trends do you predict for 2021?

A: Every year seems to be an upcycle of previous decades, and this spring feels very 90s to me —oversized shirts, belted baggy pants, and boyfriend blazers. Super fun!

 

To set up an appointment with Lin, call us at 303-333-8686 or email: lin@garbarinishop.com.