Hello Little Fashion University students! My name is Carleen. I’m a fashion stylist based in Los Angeles. I’m excited to share with you a glimpse into what my life is like as a fashion stylist and maybe inspire you to pursue a career as a fashion stylist yourself!
What do you do as a Fashion Stylist?
As a fashion stylist in the entertainment industry, I mostly work with magazine photographers, film/television directors and the models/actors that wear the clothing or accessories. I also work with fashion designers and representatives of the fashion houses and clothing brands.
The main responsibilities of my job include:
- Providing fashion advice
- Selecting and styling outfits for models on photoshoots as well as actors appearing in film and television shows
- Planning outfits, and prepping garments and accessories for shoot days
What skills do you need to become a Fashion Stylist?
To become a fashion stylist, you need to have some of the following skills:
- A good eye for detail, visual composition, and proportion
- Be knowledgeable on trends.
- An understanding of the construction of garments and sewing skills are always a bonus!
- Be willing to travel. My styling job has taken me from LA to NYC and many places in between. I have also traveled to Paris, Milan and Japan.
- Maintain good and strong relationships with clients.
- Have a great work ethic and positive attitude.
Pre-Shoot
It is essential to plan and prepare everything before the photoshoot. Shoots tend to be long and very busy, so I always begin the planning process as far in advance as possible to ensure that everything is ready to go.
The prep process includes speaking with the client, photographer, and director to get an understanding of the style direction of the shoot. The client will usually provide a mood board that helps give me inspiration and ideas for what kinds of garments and accessories to look for when pulling wardrobe.
I will then reach out to my contacts at different fashion houses and clothing brands to secure their clothing for the shoot. It is important that I have a good relationship with these suppliers and that I communicate with them on how they’re clothing will be used. I often have thousands of dollars of clothing in my possession, so trust is of upmost importance, and they know that I will return the clothing in good condition. The reason these suppliers are willing to lend them to me is so they can get their clothing seen in the magazines, television etc.
Shoot Day
Photoshoot days are always super hectic, but lots of fun! Shoot and set days are usually long days, so I always be sure I am well-rested and fueled for the day ahead. I also keep snacks and water in my bag for me to keep my energy up throughout the day.
When I arrive to set, I will unpack and hang all the garments up, then lay out the accessories and shoes so everything is neat and organized. I will then steam anything that needs it. Once the photoshoot or filming begins, I’ll be on hand all day to assist with how the model or actor wears the clothes and make alterations and necessary changes throughout the day.
Post-Shoot
After photoshoots or full days of filming, I am responsible for ensuring all the garments that we have borrowed from fashion houses and showrooms are returned in perfect condition.
Before returning the clothing and accessories, I check each item for stains, rips, and any issues like broken zippers and make sure that they are fixed and cleaned. It is so important to keep the borrowed pieces in excellent condition to maintain a good relationship with the fashion houses and showrooms. Otherwise, they may not want to lend to me for future shoots.
So, there you have it, this is just a little peek into the day-to-day working life as a fashion stylist. Working as a fashion stylist can be very challenging and tiring but it is fun, fast-paced, and so rewarding. I hope you enjoyed this, and I hope it has inspired you to venture into the exciting world of fashion one day!
