Until fairly recently, fashion stylist is a job title that was unheard of; however, it is among the emerging professions in the world of style globally. As the name suggests, a stylist uses fashion trends to create an exclusive style for a specific individual. The person can be anyone from a celebrity to a model to a business person who is pressed for time. In fact, just about anyone who would like to create a distinct self-image can use the service of a stylist.
Tasks of a Stylist
Tasks that fall under the portfolio of a stylist include keeping track of the newest fashion trends, creating and preserving a network of contacts and determining what would make individuals look his or her best. In addition, stylists are tasked with finding appropriate-fitting clothes and accessories and either purchasing or hiring them, helping individuals with building a wardrobe and dressing them up.
Styling Photoshoots
Advertising agencies, magazines and newspapers generally use the services of stylists. In these situations, the stylists are required to prepare the outfits of the models for photoshoots. A significant part of the career involves planning what outfits would look great on each model, determining from where to hire or buy these clothes and accessories (based on the budget) and taking the chosen pieces to the photoshoot. They then get the models dressed for the shoot.
The stylists have the responsibility to create the type of image the advertising agency, magazine or newspaper would like to portray. The services of these stylists may be commissioned on a temporary basis; however, the majority of stylists operate on a freelance basis.
Celebrity Stylists and Image Consultants
Additionally, fashion stylists are hired by celebrities such as singers, actors and television hosts. Typically, these stylists are called ‘celebrity stylists.’ They are tasked with creating an exclusive image for a particular celebrity. This style creation may be associated with a general image change or just a particular movie or TV show.
Image consultants or personal stylists is another category of stylists. These stylists work with men and women who desire a makeover, an entire image change. Nowadays, many business owners are consulting with personal stylists to create a new image. These stylists work closely with clients to determine the best style for them.
Trendsetters
Stylists have been known to be trendsetters in the industry. A stylist can give a traditional garment a hip and different look, which could trend widely in the style industry. He or she can dress a celebrity in an elaborate accessory for a particular event and it could become the most sought-after accessory.
Traits of a Successful Stylist
To succeed, fashion stylists must be genuinely interest in fashion. They must have an eye for style and be aware of the latest fashion trends. Some stylists have gained a fashion degree, while others learn from experience. Schools are there that offer styling courses. Stylists must also enjoy shopping and be detail oriented. Additionally, they should be aware of different shades and colors, different body types and how different materials fit.
Furthermore, stylists should be knowledgeable about the colors that best suit the different skin tones and the style and material that would enhance a particular body type. They must enjoy experimenting and be capable of presenting traditional things in trendy and unusual ways. The stylist should also be capable of bringing out the best in each client. Additionally, they should have exceptional interpersonal skills. This is because they need to interact and maintain relationships with a number of individuals, including models, photographers and lighting technicians.
Despite certain limitations, fashion styling is an exhilarating career option for individuals who love fashion. An increasing number of individuals are becoming aware of the significance of image building overall in boosting self-confidence. In turn, this would be reflected in how the individual interacts with others. As such, the number of individuals turning to stylists is on the rise globally.
