A Nordstrom Stylist Shares Her Top Shopping and Style Tips

Nordstrom stylists invariably have some of the best shopping tips. This probably doesn’t come as a surprise given that it’s their literal job to source modern selects for their clients and help them build their wardrobes. Rose Hayes is one stylist who has a breadth of fashion knowledge. She’s worked in Nordstrom styling for over 15 years and naturally keeps up with what matters in fashion.

We tapped Hayes for her style tips on the key pieces that matter right now. She suggested seven items and looks that she’s loving and are also current favorites during styling sessions with her clients. The pieces in question are modern and highly versatile. Yes, they can be styled with a range of items already in your wardrobe. Keep scrolling for more, including outfit inspiration from Hayes and shopping recommendations.

Matching Sets

“Whether to mix or match has always been a fashion dilemma. Do you buy the top or matching bottom? The answer now is BOTH! Dressing in a matching set couldn’t be easier, and it takes the guesswork out of what to wear. So when you’re shopping, buy the set for maximum versatility. Besides wearing them together, the possibilities are endless when worn separately—this gives a lot of bang for your buck! The matching vest-and-trouser set is a popular trend. It reads chic, elegant, and powerful yet more relaxed than a traditional suit. My customers are loving a matching set right now, and you will too.” — Hayes

Crochet Knits

“This trend is all about texture, from crochet flower chokers to full-on head-to-toe crochet maxi dresses. I’ve been suggesting to my customers three ways to wear this trend. Try an open-weave crochet tunic as a swimsuit cover-up, embrace the trend with a two-piece set, go all in with a crochet maxi dress, and pair a pretty crochet top with your favorite light-wash jeans.” — Hayes

Pieces for a Denim-on-Denim Look

“Denim on denim has been gaining traction since last fall and continues to be a cool way to dress going into spring and summer too. My customers have been loving denim puff-sleeve tops with denim skirts. To ease them into this trend, we’ve been pairing denim jackets or denim shirts with ecru jeans. It’s been a mind shift for many, but once they try it, they come back for more! To elevate a denim tuxedo, add a heel and layered jewelry because accessories are key.” — Hayes

Short Trench Coats

“Trench coats remain a staple, with the short trench silhouette as the newest iteration. This fresh take on a classic traditional piece is just what your closet needs to feel updated and stylish. Replace a blazer with a short trench. Throw it on over a sleeveless top or dress for a less dressy alternative. The short trench is not just for outerwear anymore. Think of it as a light spring jacket. And you don’t have to wait for it to rain to wear it. Easy outfit idea: I’ve been styling my customers in a short trench jacket, light-wash denim, a simple white tee, a cool sneaker, and a baseball or trucker hat for that ‘model off duty’ look.” — Hayes

Separates With Stripes

“You can’t beat a bold stripe to add drama and excitement to your outfits. From Valentino and Dries Van Noten to Mango and Nordstrom, everyone is designing with stripes, and I’m so here for it! For me, the bolder the better! The wider the stripe, the more graphic and eye-catching it will be. Sporty stripes on sweaters, T-shirts, handbags, and athleticwear are everywhere right now. If a bold stripe feels like too much for you, stick with narrow stripes on something like an oversize shirt. I’ve been adding striped shirts and shirtdresses to everyone’s fitting room lately. It’s a classic, basic piece that never gets old and, right now, looks so fresh and modern. Easy outfit idea: Try a belted striped shirtdress, denim jacket, and a crossbody with sporty sneaks for daytime. Then, remove the belt and swap out the sneakers for a little heel, clutch, and scarf. Now, you’re ready for dinner with friends.” — Hayes

Floral Items

“It wouldn’t be spring without pretty blooms. My customers and I are definitely embracing the flirty floral trend. This look is the epitome of femininity and will be seen everywhere, from weddings to graduation parties to just about any event you can think of, this spring/summer. The flirtier styles are short and mini—perfect to be worn with structured bags and flats. Don’t like busy patterns? This look doesn’t have to mean floral patterns if that’s not your vibe. Think solid eyelet cotton fabrics with flower motifs.” — Hayes

Pieces for a Monochromatic Look

“Dressing all in one shade has always looked chic and elevated. I especially love wearing all ecru in the spring and all white in the summer. This look exudes confidence.” — Hayes