How to become a fashion stylist

Students who aspire to become fashion stylists can begin their journey by enrolling in a design program at UPES

Italian fashion designer Miuccia Prada once said, “What you wear is how you present yourself to the world…fashion is an instant language.” Indeed, fashion is a language that builds an immediate connection between people. Actors, musicians, sportspersons, and even politicians and business executives often capture people’s attention with their impeccable fashion sense, which reflects their personalities and intrigues people to know more about them. These styles, however, are visualised and created by fashion stylists working behind the scenes.  

Fashion stylists are professionals who create a person’s visual aesthetic intending to appeal to a certain audience. They work across a wide range of industries – from political campaigns to e-commerce, professional photoshoots and sports events. For students interested in becoming fashion stylists, it is crucial to understand the nuances of the field.  
 

Different types of fashion stylists:

• Celebrity Stylists arrange and create looks for celebrities for various events like red carpets, movie premieres, press interviews, award functions, and other public appearances. They consider all aspects of the celebrity’s appearance while creating these looks such as clothing, hair, makeup and accessories. Their responsibilities include personal shopping for the celebrities for items like shoes, bags, accessories, and wardrobe, developing a signature look, and planning photoshoots, brand campaigns, and various magazines/editorial projects using their expertise and in-depth research.  
• Runway Stylists work on the looks showcased on runway shows and during fashion weeks where renowned designers gather to exhibit their collections. They align the brand’s identity and signature fashion statements with the theme of the shows.
• Corporate Stylists assist working professionals in building their desired corporate image such that their appearance helps strengthen their influence at work. They help clients dress as per social settings, workplace environment, professional events, office parties, corporate award shows, job interviews, and more. They also offer etiquette training to clients to build their confidence and create a powerful corporate image.
• E-Commerce Stylists develop different looks for brands and catalogues for e-commerce websites. They also work with retailers and manufacturers. Many e-commerce stylists are freelancers who work with several production houses, photographers, and designers of their choice.
• Sports Stylists prepare looks for professional athletes. For a celebrity in the sports industry, their aesthetics are key to creating a public image, as well as securing remunerative endorsements and positive publicity.
• Image Consultants are stylists who focus on personal grooming, etiquette training, and overall personality development. They help people express themselves through their appearance and body language.