Is AI Replacing Personal and Celebrity Stylists?

Today, I want to discuss a topic that’s been on my mind recently – the rise of AI technology and whether it’s replacing personal and celebrity stylists. I came across a video on Instagram where they talked about how artificial intelligence will replace stylists, and it got me thinking about the future of the fashion industry.

The video my friend sent me talked about how even high-end designers use AI technology to help customers choose their clothes. They claimed that this technology could replace personal stylists and even celebrity stylists. But in my opinion, that’s just crazy. AI technology and subscription-style boxes are not the same as working with a personal stylist.

Let’s talk about subscription-style boxes for a moment. Years ago, the New York Times interviewed me and asked for my opinion on subscription-style boxes. I told them that they were crap. Yes, you heard me right. They are crap. An algorithm differs from a stylist, who cannot pick out your clothes successfully. I don’t care what anyone says. I hate to break it to you, but everyone else is getting those boxes full of cheap clothes. That’s not personal style.

They say a stylist will handpick a box for you, but that’s false. An algorithm picks it, and then there’s a person who’s probably making minimum wage to check it and tweak it. They’re not stylists. They’re just there to ensure the algorithm didn’t screw up.

Similarly, Rhonda, the AI robot, is not a stylist. It’s just a robot programmed to give you advice based on your size and shirt color. But that’s not what a personal stylist does. They get to know you on a deeper level. They understand your body’s insecurities, budget, dreams, and passions. They’ll pick clothes from various retailers, not just a limited selection from one company.

A personal stylist will design looks tailored to you and your unique style. They’ll interact with you, advise you, and help you build confidence in your fashion choices. That kind of interaction is life-changing. You can’t get that kind of connection from an algorithm or a robot.

Some might argue that subscription-style boxes and AI technology are more affordable and accessible to the average person. But here’s the thing – if you’re buying a luxury service like having a personal stylist, you’re not the average person. You’re someone who values style and fashion, and you’re willing to invest in yourself.

To put it in perspective, think about personal trainers. During the pandemic, gyms were closed, and people had to resort to working out at home with AI-powered workout mirrors. But as soon as the gyms reopened, people returned to their trainers. They wanted human interaction and personalized attention you can’t get from a mirror. It’s the same with personal stylists.

There will always be a need for human stylists. AI technology and subscription style boxes may be helpful for some people, but they’re not the same as having a stylist who understands you and your unique style. So, to answer the question in the title – no, AI is not replacing personal and celebrity stylists.