What Is A "Holistic" Personal Stylist? (And Why You Could Definitely Use One)

Natalie Decleve has been a successful personal stylist in New York City for over 11 years. Two years ago, she dubbed herself a “Holistic Personal Stylist” and we were intrigued… As Guest of a Guest’s former Fashion Correspondent, Natalie covered New York Fashion Week’s best street style and backstage interviews for us, starting around the same time that she launched her styling business, Natty Style, in 2009. Since then, she’s built a seemingly recession and pandemic proof business and we had to know more.

We caught up with Natalie below, to learn what exactly she does and why you should probably hire her immediately if not sooner.

First of all, what is a Holistic Personal Stylist?
Essentially, I approach style from inside out and bottom to top. I believe that streamlining your wardrobe, your living space and your lifestyle has a huge impact on the way we feel. When I meet a client for the first time, I pay attention to the reasons that they reached out to me in the first place so that I can truly meet their goals. 

What does the process of working with you look like?
I always recommend starting with a Closet Cleanse where we edit the client’s wardrobe down to the best, while making a list of what might be needed. I’ll learn as much as I can about their specific lifestyle and needs and we’ll make a date to go shopping. During the shopping appointment, I pre-shop before s/he arrives so that they arrive to a dressing room full of personally selected items. After thoughtfully choosing what really works and what doesn’t, I will create a digital Lookbook, incorporating the new items into their existing wardrobe. It’s like having a stylist in your pocket, all the time! The experience is about as efficient and fun as possible, and I really try to take the guesswork and the legwork out of getting dressed. Who wants to waste energy worrying about what to wear?? 

Where do you shop?
Everywhere! Online too. Many of my clients don’t live anywhere near NYC so anything is possible. I work with both men and women, all ages, backgrounds and budgets. 

So, do you offer advice outside of their wardrobe?
Wardrobe is my main focus, but yes–occasionally my clients ask me to style their homes or create healthy lifestyle plans for them as well. 

Was that always a part of your business?
I spend so much one-on-one time with my clients that it’s always been natural for them to ask for suggestions on everything from travel to workouts to where to dine in the city. Once someone trusts your eye and you are able to translate their fashion desires into reality, why not go beyond the closet?? But during the pandemic is when people’s needs began to shift significantly, and also taught me how to do much of my job online. Which, opens things up significantly. 

Still have questions or want to book a session? Email natalie@nattystyle.com