The Happy Stylist
Bridget Albano helps clients to reconnect with their identity…
and ‘break up’ with old clothes!
and ‘break up’ with old clothes!
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Tell us all about the ‘The Happy Stylist’…
My career in fashion began over two decades ago, working as a buyer for some of the UK’s best-known high-street names. It was a world I loved, but the events of 2020 brought an unexpected turning point. Being made redundant gave me the chance to pause and reconnect with what I truly love about fashion: its power to transform how a person feels. I knew I wanted to use my expertise in a much more personal and meaningful way. So, I took a leap of faith and opened a curated fashion stall in Harborough Market with a view to making contacts to style, in May 2021, my personal styling business was officially born. What services you provide? My goal is always to make styling feel joyful and accessible. I offer a range of affordable services designed to meet every need. The Wardrobe Edit: Together, we go through your wardrobe to find the “best friends” – those reliable pieces that make you feel confident. At the same time, we’ll say a firm but friendly goodbye to the ‘long-distance cousins’ and ‘ex-boyfriends’ in your wardrobe! It’s a gentle, supportive process to build a capsule of clothes you truly love. As one recent client put it: ‘It was such a pleasure to have you in my home to help me take control over my wardrobe. This process has been completely transformative for me.’ The ‘Girly Shop’: For anyone who finds shopping overwhelming, this service is for you! Designed to be a fun, supportive and successful day out! It starts with your wish-list, and then we hit the shops together. Expect lots of laughs, some ‘fitting room mayhem’, and always a celebratory stop for coffee and cake! Style Events: These are joyful, interactive events where I bring like-minded women together. The highlight is my signature ‘High Street Edit’, where I curate rails with the best timeless pieces from the high street, tailored to the guests, followed by a fun try-on session! These are held every few months across the Midlands, and I also offer private events for groups of friends. Why do you think it is important to have this kind of service? As women, we so often put ourselves at the bottom of the list. I believe passionately that taking the time to focus on you isn’t an indulgence – it’s essential for your well-being. My work goes far beyond clothes; it’s about creating a space where women can reconnect with their identity. I see myself as their biggest cheerleader. In fact, I don’t call them ‘clients’ – I call them my ‘Queens’, because that’s what they are to me. Ultimately, this is an act of self-care, a journey to self-love, and a powerful affirmation of self-worth. What is the most rewarding part for you? For me, it’s witnessing my Queens reconnect with their confidence. Sometimes, it’s that magical moment of discovery when they try something new and say, ‘I would never have tried this on my own, but I absolutely love it!’. At other times, it’s weeks later, when that confidence has truly sunk in, and I get a message that says, ‘I feel so amazing today and I’ve had so many compliments!’. Knowing I’ve played a part in both the initial spark and the lasting joy is everything. What plans have you got in store? Styling the beautiful Posy Sterling for this issue in vintage and preloved pieces only was a real full-circle moment for me. It took me right back to my buying days and shopping for inspo. It has completely reignited my passion for sustainable fashion! Building on that, I was invited to hold my first Vintage Styling Masterclass this September at Vintage Guru in Northampton, which I’m so looking forward to! I love collaborating with local women-led businesses, whether that’s photographers, make-up artists, hairdressers or wellness experts and I will continue to champion small businesses and adopt and promote their services wherever possible! I am so lucky to live in such a vibrant community with such a wealth of talent! If you’re a warm, down-to-earth woman looking to discover your style then we are a perfect match! To get in contact with Bridget, call: 07449 457796 or visit thehappystylist.co.uk
Instagram: @thehappystylistuk |
Issue 26
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