hat happens when you are swamped to the neck in hundreds of things and the festive season is round the corner? You can't summon fairy godmother, but you can definitely get in touch with your 'personal shopper'. In an attempt to give the ultimate in value-add to their customers, retailers in the United States are providing personal shopping advisors.

Most high-end retail stores like Nordstorm, Talbots, Barneys and Macy's are offering this service in one form or the other. Shoppers who are too busy with work or have other engagements can just meet up or make a call to their personal shopper, and things will be done. Not only do these shopping assistants help customers in making the right style statement, they also help in picking out gifts for friends and family. ... more