Fashion Stylist Careers Information
Fashion stylists are responsible for creating the outfits and looks that people see in magazines, movies, music videos, and on celebrities and models. All tasks related to styling and visuals usually fall under the responsibility of the stylist, who works to help bring the vision of the director or photographer to life.
Fashion Stylist Careers & Degrees
- Art Institute of Pittsburgh: Online
In addition to mixing and matching outfits and accessories, fashion stylist careers involve a long list of duties, including borrowing and returning outfits and props, meeting with public relations firms and retailers, and producing creative design solutions.
Fashion stylists usually work on a freelance basis, so the ability to network and maintain a client base is essential to a successful career. Though stylist can be hired for personal wardrobe consultations, they generally work for photo shoots, print advertisements, commercials, and celebrity events such as red carpet appearances and award ceremonies.
Stylists consult with make-up artists, hair stylists, directors, and photographers to ensure their vision is cohesive and seamless. One of the most important elements of fashion styling is the ability to show a client’s personality through the outfits they are wearing.
Fashion Stylist Careers Path
In general, there are no specific educational requirements necessary to begin a career as a fashion stylist. Some stylists attend short courses that offer a comprehensive knowledge of the fashion industry and styling trends and techniques.
Those interested in advancing their careers should consider enrolling in a fashion merchandising degree program, fashion design degree program or a styling program or a visual or art merchandising program.
This will provide students with the knowledge and professional experience necessary to work in the field of fashion styling.
Certification for fashion stylists has also been increasing in popularity, and may be important for those just entering the field.
Additionally, it’s highly recommended that students interested in pursing this career gain a good deal of professional experience.
Seeking out internships or positions as fashion stylist assistants can provide students with great field experience, while allowing students to build a professional portfolio.
Fashion Stylist Compatible Personality Traits
Creative, resourceful, conceptual, and insightful. Great communication and networking skills, an eye for detail, and the ability to work in fast-paced, stressful environments.
Fashion Stylists Salary Expectations
Salaries of fashion stylists vary depending on experience level. Since these positions are usually freelance, it’s difficult to estimate the average salaries.
Many stylists suggest daily rates for entry-level positions can range from $150 to $200, whereas daily rates for a top-level stylist can average around $5,000 a day, or more than $100,000 annually.
Fashion Stylists Careers Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of those working in clothing, accessories, and general merchandise stores is expected to grow by 11 percent over the 2008-2018 decade, which is average for all occupations.
Those with formal educations will have the best opportunities for advancement, and strong competition is to be expected. Job opportunities should be best in metropolitan areas, especially those known to be fashion epicenters like New York and Los Angeles.
Slightly Off the Footpath
Source: bls.gov/oco/cg/cgs022.htm
