In good and bad economic times, one's wardrobe is always in need of a paring down and sprucing up. However, cleaning out old, worn-out and out-of-style clothes can be tough to do. Here to help is Wood River Valley resident Elizabeth Briggeman. Briggeman has launched her own company, Ready to Wear, to help people streamline their wardrobe, guiding people to make good decisions about deleting clothing while creating a good clothing style.
"I worked as a manager for Elle Rose in Ketchum for 10 years and so many customers would say to me, 'I wish I could take you home with me,'" Briggeman said. "I started to send photos and outfit lists to customers. These customers eventually evolved into clients."
Briggeman helps clear the clutter from closets by helping a client make decisions about what to keep and what type of style they like or want. In addition, she will offer tips on how to shop, store and accessorize.
"There are key parts to cleaning up a wardrobe and creating looks," Briggeman said. "It's amazing what you find in the closet. I update pieces for seasonal wear, educate people on age-appropriate clothing and give advice on what to look for when shopping."
Briggeman's services are $75 per hour. She said her clients vary in need and represent a wide array of women and men. She had been working part-time at Ready to Wear for three years before turning her consulting into a full time job in May. All her clients are referrals.
She said certain clothing items are timeless. One great designer piece is better than lots of trendy pieces. If buying trending items, Briggeman advised, buy an entire outfit.
"Don't just by a sale item because it's on sale," she said. "Ask yourself, if you could afford it at full price, would you buy it? Watch end-of-season sales for basic wardrobe items."
Briggeman said to go to designer Web sites for ideas on color and types of clothing pieces. For example, the look for fall features purple and gray colors, sparkles and leggings.
"Shop with lists and have an objective," she said.
On a regular basis, Briggeman travels the country to speak to CEOs, gives her services for auction items and is always interested in helping people streamline their wardrobe because it makes a difference in their lives.
To learn more about Briggeman and home consultations, visit ebreadytowear.com or call 481-0469.
Sabina Dana Plasse: splasse@mtexpress.com
Elizabeth Briggeman
