Holt Renfrew's Image Consultant and National Spokesperson Christina McDowell is not only impeccably groomed, impossibly stylish and utterly efficient, she wants you to be as well. Here, she shares a small portion of her endless expertise and puts a whole new spin on the term "one-stop shopping."

Holt Renfrew: If someone's not using Holt Renfrew's complimentary personal shopping, why should they?
Christina McDowell: "For many reasons. It offers great direction and style advice. It saves clients from buying items they'll never wear and making costly mistakes. It's time efficient. Most of my clients have a sense of style and know how to dress but have very busy schedules and no time to shop. Plus, we have a lot of fun. We just make it easier."

HR: Who are your clients?
CD: "My clients range from MBA students, CEOs and politicians to celebrities, new moms reentering the work force and really anyone who wants to look great and present themselves with style."

HR: What's the most important thing to remember when shopping for clothes?
CD: "Understand your body type. It sounds obvious but it's remarkable how many people try runway looks that don't match their proportion and shape."

HR: How important is it to follow trends?
CD: "It's not important to follow trends. I think it's important to be aware of trends so you can shop with a contemporary mindset. Don't be a slave to fashion – pick and choose the trends that suit your lifestyle and body type. Accessories and makeup colours are a great way to incorporate new trends into a wardrobe."

HR: What's the best compliment a client has given you?
CD: "I consistently hear that the experience has made a huge difference in their lives. Transformation and positive impact – that really matters to me."

HR: Some people liken hair stylists to psychologists. To what would you liken the role of personal shopper?
CD: "Personal shopping has to be based on trust to be successful. So there's an element of listening like a therapist or a confidante. I'm not a life coach but my clients feel very comfortable with me guiding them through this process."

HR: Who do you think always looks great?
CD: "My clients."

HR: Does Canadian style vary from province to province?
CD: "There's a definite distinction in style sensibility from east to west – and even between Montreal and Toronto. Both are sophisticated and urban but Montreal men and women are more risk oriented when it comes to their wardrobes."

HR: Have you ever made a fashion faux pas?
CD: "What's a faux pas to some may be creative genius to another. So I'm sure I've made one, but I got over it."

HR: How does a customer know they've found the right personal shopper?
CD: "When they feel comfortable, develop a sense of trust and a great rapport. The bottom line is that the personal shopper help them look and feel great. I love it when clients say, ‘You've taken me to the next level. I would not have gone there on my own but am thrilled that I have.'"

By Christy Wright