Wednesday, January 25, 2012

Ask A Stylist: How do I become a stylist?


I want to know how to get your job? 
Please tell me I need help. 

You should be proud of yourself for asking, especially me of all people. I will tell you how it really is.  Get ready - this is going to be a very informative post.

The career of a stylist has been on the rise for the last decade and even more now that reality TV has shined a spotlight on it. However, we must remember that not everything we see on TV is real.  Bravo makes it seem like stylists live such glamorous lives but there is A LOT of work done behind the scenes. Why do you think Rachel Zoe looks stressed out most of the time? 

There is no particular way to go about becoming a stylist, which can be frustrating. You must put yourself out there, find your niche and stay true to your vision. Being a stylist is not just about putting together cute outfits or curating stunning interiors, it's also about being a business person. Aside from styling you are responsible for getting your clients, maintaining relationships with hair and makeup artists, photographers, showrooms, PR, etc (being organized is important!). Zoe started her styling career working at YM magazine and would style music videos on the weekends. She worked SEVEN DAYS A WEEK.

You will have to pay your dues in the beginning, meaning you will have to style shoots and clients for free to get a portfolio together. There is no better time then now to start. I started off by shooting with photographers and styling friends in the industry for fun. Once I knew I didn't mind the nitty gritty part of this business that's when I decided to pursue it as a career. 

Final words of advice: no one said it would be easy, but it will be worth it.  If this is truly your passion I say go for it! Being a person who has pursued all of her passions in life there has never come a time where it wasn't worth it.

Here are a few resources to help get your styling career underway...


Wishing you nothing but the best, xo