Chances are, you got some holiday gifts that were definitely not on your list. And, even though it’s the thought that counts, sometimes you want to exchange that thought for something you actually want. So, even with no tag, no receipt, and when you don’t want the gift-giver to you to know you’re returning it, here’s how to get the most in return for your unwanted item.

Obviously, in my opinion, there’s never a bad time to work with a Personal Stylist. But, maybe it would help you decide to try it if you knew what to expect. So, to give you a better understanding of what it’s like to work with me, I put together a summary of my most recent client experience.

‘Tis the season for holiday parties and that means ‘tis the time to begin thinking about what you’re going to wear. First, you need to know how formal or informal your event is, and then you need to decide how much you’re willing to invest in your outfit.

One thing I’ve learned is that there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to dressing for networking events. Some lean toward more casual attire, while others are more upscale affairs. The key is to know your audience. Here’s a rundown of three very different events I attended in one month, along with my look for each one.

I’ll never forget my first “real” job. The company was very buttoned-up and I was an assistant to one of the managing partners. My old college wardrobe wasn’t going to cut it. This was going to be a challenge—especially on an entry-level budget. I limited myself to 10 key pieces and $200. And I made these 10 smart, simple and comfortable shopping choices…

Without getting into a history lesson, I’ll just say this: the “don’t-wear-white-after-Labor-Day” rule is super outdated and just plain ridiculous. Of course you can (and should) wear white all year long. It goes with everything and looks great on everyone. And it can make for an especially amazing look as the weather gets cooler.

Here’s the thing about back-to-school shopping: it isn’t only for kids. “Back-to-school” includes back-to-parent-teacher-conferences, back-to-PTA-meetings-and-fundraisers, back-to-class-parties, back-to-sports-banquets, back-to-music-recitals and, eventually, back-to-graduation. And that means, as a parent, you need to make sure you have all the essential pieces in your wardrobe.

Everybody‘s talking about the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale—their annual event offering incredible designer discounts. Having worked at Nordstrom as a Sales Associate and Personal Stylist, I’m very familiar with the Anniversary Sale and all the hype it gets. However, Nordstrom also has some amazing everyday services that I always offered my clients to enhance their shopping experiences.