Meet the Stylist: Priyanka Kanodia
This month, we talked to Walnut Creek, California-based stylist Priyanka Kanodia about how she helps customers find their confidence and two styling tips she keeps in her back pocket. Whether you're looking for inspiration or want one-on-one styling help, our expert stylists are here to make you feel good and look your best.
What makes a great stylist at Nordstrom?
Listening to customers is always the most important part of styling. I'm here to enhance each customer's personal style, so asking the right questions and listening gives me an idea of who they are, what their style is and how my role as a stylist fits into their styling journey. I also like to stay on top of the latest trends. Customers come to us for advice and expect us to understand the current fashion trends and tailor them to their lifestyle.
What do you love about being a stylist?
Being able to serve customers and make a difference, big or small, is the reason I love being a stylist. I'm grateful to have the opportunity to help customers find their confidence and provide them the tools to project their best selves to the world.
How has digital styling impacted how you serve customers?
Digital styling makes it easier to serve customers on their terms and brings convenience to their styling journey. During the pandemic, I was helping customers virtually, and it has been something that I have adopted even working in store. Nordstrom has provided great tools, like Styleboards, which allows me to curate outfits and send recommendations to my customers digitally. I also find it helpful to connect with a customer via facetime or zoom prior to an in-store appointment—this gives us an opportunity to get to know each other and learn more about their lifestyle and styling needs.
Can you describe a time that you went above and beyond for a customer?
I had a customer call with an emergency around stolen luggage. The customer that called was hosting a friend from Arizona, and while having lunch their luggage was stolen, which left them with nothing for their trip. I immediately jumped in to help them find everything they needed and replace their stolen items. I worked with managers in each department, including women's and men's apparel, accessories, lingerie—you name it! I was on a mission to repair their trip. I only had about an hour before they stopped by the store, and we were able to find everything they needed.
What styling tips and tricks do you like to keep in your back pocket?
I have two tips I like to share with customers. The first is finding balance in every outfit. I like to start by asking what their favorite feature to highlight is. From there, I like to tailor an outfit that has the right balance of proportions, color and texture. For example, if a customer wants to highlight their shoulders, I recommend a midi dress where your shoulders would be highlighted best—it's all about balancing the right proportions in a chic and classic way.
The second is to embrace a French tuck—it goes a long way. There are several ways to do a French tuck, so it works for every body.