Jack of All Trades - Nancy Plummer

Meet Nancy Plummer—Image Consultant, educator and all-around inspiration.

"Nancy brings over 20 years of knowledge in the retail industry to each and every client. Her continuing education and hands-on experience have made her a leader in the field of image consulting and training. So whether you’d like a personal session or need her to lead a workshop or seminar at your school, organization or company, Nancy is the perfect fit."

SR: At what point in your life did you know you wanted to pursue fashion?
NP: Growing up a 10-year old girl in Cleveland, my mother made patterns and frequent trips to the fabric store to make our clothes and aprons. I was also the only one of several girls in my family with an initial interest in sewing. My mom started a club as part of 4-H called “Swinging Needles” that exposed me to sewing and creativity at a young age.

SR: Of all your professional experiences (Fashion Design Instructor, Account Executive for Levis Strauss, Ellen Tracy Specialist for Neiman Marcus, Associate Buyer for Lazarus Department Stores, or your personal business as an Image Consultant), what is your “favorite” versus "most desired" position?
NP: My most desirable position was a Levis Account Executive, as I had independent accounts and worked in NYC with great partners. I had the opportunity to develop relationships and be very successful with this business. My favorite business is of course my personal business as an Image Consultant with Fine Threads.

SR: How do you measure success as an Image Consultant through your business, “Fine Threads?”
NP: I measure success by continuous movement and growth with clients, and the ability to build relationships over time.

SR: Do you find people take advantage of your skills by asking casual advice, versus hiring you as their Image Consultant for feedback? How do you ensure you are compensated for your time and the education you are offering?
NP: I evaluate on a case by case basis, depending on the request and my relationship with that person. I have a lot of education and information to offer, so I may share a snippet of information, but at the same time set expectations early on as far as what I can offer for free versus thorough my consultative services.

SR: Tell me more about your “Wardrobe Parties” offered through Fine Threads!
NP: I started receiving phone calls from husbands and best friends, inquiring about how to provide a fresh look to their spouse or friend. I came up with the idea to host a wardrobe party, which allows several women to get involved versus singling anyone out for fashion advice. I ask that each woman wear the outfit she feels best in, and spend time with each person going through what works and suggestions with silhouette, accessories, color analysis etc.


SR: You wrote a book titled “Your Personal Style,” that currently sells for around $64. What does the book entail and what ideas did you need to develop this?























NP: I was teaching at a local school using three separate textbooks, for 1) exercises 2) tips on fit 3) Demographics/target market. It was choppy, not to mention inconvenient for me to be referencing three textbooks. I decided to come up with one seamless resource that encompassed all components.

SR: There is a new entrepreneur program launching this fall, called The Institute for Arts Entrepreneurship by Lisa Canning. How do you believe this will contribute to the Chicago community?
NP: Lisa is a personal friend of mine, and her vision is to bridge the gap for creative folks in the community. I believe this program will be of great value, and encourage anyone in the creative field to explore this opportunity as a way to create a profitable and sustainable business.