Style advice from a certified professional. A closet full of only pieces you wear. Customized personal shopping from the top names in retail (think Bergdorf, Saks, Nordies…) And in-person access to luxury clothing lines that feel as good as they look. I bet I have your attention.
This week I chat with Saratogian Kristin Grosso, who is thrilled to introduce a new personal wardrobe styling service to the women of our community. One that not only complements the lines that she has been selling for years, but allows local women to make the most of their current wardrobe. Most importantly, one that inspires woman to feel empowered and appreciated, giving them the confidence to positively impact our community and the world. Here’s what Kristin had to share.
ANY EARLY “STYLISTA” MEMORIES WORTH SHARING?
I do remember being into fashion as a young woman. I was so excited to order Esprit from the catalog every season for my back to school clothing. And I loved that big Spiegel catalog! Some of my favorite memories include Bermuda bags (those little handbags with wooden handles and button on covers-which I would have monogrammed), Izod turtlenecks, and my first pair of Gloria Vanderbilts. I also recall my mother taking us to NYC to stay at the Plaza Hotel and to shop at Bloomingdales and Macys. Living in the small central NY town of New Hartford, this was one awesome memory!
WHEN DID YOU ENTER THE FASHION WORLD PROFESSIONALLY?
My very first job in fashion was working at Benetton on Broadway when I was a Skidmore student. The shop was owned by a woman from my hometown and I was thrilled to be a part of her team. But professionally, my first step into fashion was opening a boutique, Le Porte’ Manteau, in Saratoga in 1994. I carried Magaschoni, Nicole Miller, French Connection, Andrew Marc, Linea Pelle and more.
AND WHEN DID YOU BEGIN YOUR TRUNK SHOWS?
In 2016, a local stylist for The Carlisle Collection, Carol Schweizer, was looking to retire from her position. I jumped on the chance to take over her business. With a background in sales and love for the line, this seemed like the perfect business for me to have while I was home with my kids. That was the beginning.
WHICH LINES DO YOU CURRENTLY SELL?
Lafayette 148 New York is known for its luxurious, high quality materials and modern design. The meticulous and perfect construction of each piece is so special and in my opinion, unbeatable. Most photos in this piece are from Fall 2022 Lafayette 148 New York collection. I was introduced to The Carlisle Collection as a kid, going to appointments with my mom. The clothing is fun and special attention is paid to each season being able to blend with previous seasons, which makes it easy for both my professional and casual clients to build useful wardrobes. Anatomie is a cool Miami-based company that uses premium Italian tech fabrics in a luxury athleisure collection. The pieces are almost all wrinkle-free and lightweight… making them super packable. The styles are great for working from home, travel, running around with the kids or a casual dinner out. My clients absolutely LOVE Anatomie.
TELL ME ABOUT THE NEW SHOPPING SERVICE YOU OFFER?
In addition to selling the lines previously mentioned, I recently completed my Professional Certification in Image Consulting from FIT. I wanted to add value to my clients’ appointments… not just sell beautiful clothing. I will be able to curate looks that include pieces from my own lines and from major retailers such as Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom or Saks, providing my clients with many outfit suggestions. This will allow women a way to update their wardrobes each season without them having to travel to a big city, take the time to browse through shops or make decisions shopping online. My clients will be able to upload photos of what they have in their closet to their “online closet”, and I will suggest complimentary pieces that will work perfectly with their existing wardrobes.
As a Personal Wardrobe Stylist and Image Consultant, I can help women build on an existing wardrobe, stay focused on the right style for them, and make sure that each client has a closet full of (ONLY) clothing they wear.
WHAT ARE YOUR HOPES FOR THE FUTURE?
I plan on using my new-found knowledge to make a difference within our Saratoga community. I’d like to spend some time as an image consultant for women who may be going through difficult life circumstances and changes, helping to empower those in need.
As far as my existing or future clients… I want to continue making women feel good, appreciated, and relevant. Nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing a huge smile on a woman’s face when she feels so good about how she looks and feels. I REALLY enjoy using my personal style expertise and knowledge to be a part of that experience for her. And hope to be a part of that for years to come.
A Sneak Peek at Lafayette 148 New York Fall 2022, showing now through September 14th:
To visit the current Lafayette 148 New York trunk show or to inquire about Kristin’s wardrobe styling or image consulting services, please contact Kristin Grosso directly at kristingrosso12@gmail or at (518)339-3690 .
Appointments can also be made at:
You may connect with Kristin on social media at Instagram or Facebook.