Are you ready to dive into the exciting world of fashion styling? Trust me, I’ve been in your shoes as an aspiring stylist, wondering how to make my mark in this glamorous industry. But fear not! With a little guidance from a talented and experienced fashion stylist, I managed to turn my passion into a paying gig. And that’s the ultimate goal, right? To get paid for doing what you love. But before you can start cashing those styling checks, there are a few important steps you need to take.
“Style is something each of us already has, all we need to do is find it.” —Diane von Furstenberg
First things first, education is key! You absolutely have to know fashion inside out. Sure, being a stylist is all about expressing your unique creative style, but there’s also a whole world of fashion knowledge that you need to tap into. That means familiarizing yourself with fashion lingo (don’t worry, you’ll pick up most of it along the way). You don’t want to be caught off guard and feeling lost because you can’t effectively communicate your fashion vision. From explaining your plans and ideas to discussing alterations, you need to be able to articulate your thoughts with confidence. As a stylist, you also need to understand the principles of balance, different fabrics and textiles, how colors work together, and the art of fit. Knowing how to spot quality fabrics and finishes is a must. And let’s not forget about the various styling categories like avant-garde, glam, and commercial print. In a nutshell, knowledge is power, so make sure you know your stuff!
Another tip I highly recommend is studying professional photos shot by experienced photographers with agency models. This gives you a leg up on other stylists who often make the mistake of working with amateurs, resulting in subpar photos. As a new stylist, providing wardrobe for shoots can be challenging, so you want to make sure your hard work shines in high-quality images. Ideally, it takes a collaborative team effort involving photographers, makeup artists, hairstylists, and of course, you as the stylist. It’s also crucial to get familiar with the top professionals in your area. Take note of exceptional photographers and other industry experts. This knowledge will prove invaluable as you progress in your career.
Last but not least, stay on top of trends, colors, and innovative designers. Make research your daily routine. Dive into magazines, follow red carpet events, watch fashion shows, scour the internet, and engage in fashion forums. The more you immerse yourself in the fashion world, the better. If you’re looking for a solid starting point, consider enrolling in a fashion program. Many schools offer comprehensive courses that teach you not only the creative aspects but also the business side of the fashion industry. However, I have to be honest, school isn’t a requirement for this field. There’s a wealth of information you’ll learn on the job. So, if school isn’t an option due to finances or personal preference, you can still build your knowledge by ordering textbooks or other books that cover the fundamentals and important introductory information related to fashion and style.
Dear future stylist, master this critical step, and you’ll be well on your way to success. Stay tuned for step 2, coming soon!
