We've become accustomed to instant and conditioned responses. You can largely thank Amazon, Apple, and Google for this mammoth behavioral shift. 

A client was sharing a story recently about her husband having a suit altered within a 6-hour window for an important event later that evening (a very official government event, hence, the pressure was on). This happened over a decade ago. While it is still technically possible, this quick turnaround is becoming less likely these days.

One of my male clients reached out earlier this month, needing a suit for an out-of-town wedding in February. I shared with this client last fall that any suiting needs should be articulated with notice, especially given the personalization requirements and time constraints that come with suiting. He understood that and reached out accordingly. But after a few days and finally selecting the suit, it didn't just land in his hands "off the rack" from the store. A week passed while he awaited its arrival in town before custom alterations could begin. This experience is a more common occurrence of slow fashion. Although some places can turn a suit within a day, fewer and fewer exist, and those that do often lack quality. 

In another instance, a client wanted to procure gifts for her friend—a handbag and wallet from the recipient's favorite designer—which could have taken 1-2 days with shipping calculations, based on what websites told us. However, this was not the case. Although the bag was purchased from the retailer's website, it sold out immediately, and our order was ultimately canceled. I contacted the general manager, who called in a favor at a neighboring store, and luckily the bag was ours. What's important to note is that while the client reached out ten days before their gift deadline, stuff happens. Miraculously, I was able to get it done... in those ten days. 

TL;DR Supply chains are a sh*t show. We're becoming used to the fact, but more and more shopping experiences will be delayed. So, you have two choices: become a better planner, or hire me ;)

Interested in regular styling advice and shopping recommendations?

Sign up for my weekly Style / Substance newsletter…