By: Joan Tupponce, Joan Tupponce & Associates, Inc.

If you're in the midst of shopping for clothing this holiday season, you'd probably appreciate some advice on how to coordinate your outfits and accessories. That's just what you'll get when you work with a wardrobe associate who helps support the commissioned selling staff in retail stores.

"A lot of people need help with coordinating their clothing," observes Maurice Smith, senior vice president of store operations at S&K Famous Brands, Inc. "Most men don't wear tailored clothing on a day-to-day basis. They come in and get something for a meeting or a special occasion. They [normally] need help. Wardrobe associates lay out clothing that is appropriate for a customer's lifestyle."

Wardrobe associates at S&K present customers with a variety of choices and ideas.

"We paint the picture for every occasion," Smith says. "We try to go beyond the customer's initial request."

Wardrobe associates are experienced in putting together the right look for the right person.

"They make sure that the clothing fits what the customer needs and wants," Smith says. "We want it to be appropriate for their lifestyle."

Getting into the field doesn't require a college degree, but customer service experience is a considered a plus.

"Retail training would be helpful, but it's not necessary," Smith says. "We train our wardrobe associates."

It's important that anyone considering the field be able to effectively interact with customers. They should be able to interface with technology and posses excellent customer service skills as well as phone skills.

"We say they need emotional intelligence. Wardrobe associates need to be able to understand customers and what customers need to better understand their lifestyle," Smith says. "They should enjoy the fashion industry and be passionate about fashion."

Even though the job is considered to be an entry-level position, it is a good way to learn about the fashion industry and the retail world.

"It's a good stepping stone to higher positions," Smith says. "Some people that are hired into the position go on to become multi-level managers."

The training can parlay into other similar positions such as personal shopper or image consultant. "The job gives you exposure to a team-oriented environment," Smith says. "It also provides hands-on experience. You can learn the art and science of the business."

This type of position is growing within the retail sector.

"Customers are more sophisticated these days," Smith says. "They want good customer service."

Pull Quote: "They should enjoy the fashion industry and be passionate about fashion."