Fashion Stylist Jobs
A fashion stylist works with professional photographers to find locations for photo shoots, set up the lighting and background and hire the models. The stylist is responsible for choosing the right colors for the pictures as well as extra props and scenery that is appropriate to the theme of the ad or magazine layout. Celebrities and public figures sometimes employ a fashion stylist to choose and coordinate the wardrobe for events and press conferences.
Other People Are Reading
-
Training
-
Both specialized fashion training schools and liberal arts colleges and universities offer degrees in various programs that can help to increase a talented designer's skills while providing a degree that can open employment doors. A two or four-year degree in fashion design, merchandising or marketing can be useful to procure an entry-level position. Look for curriculum that includes training in merchandising techniques, how to read fashion trends and how to coordinate colors. Most fashion degree programs also include studies in how to sew and tailor clothes, skills that can come in handy on the job. Consider programs at the International Academy of Design, which offers placement service upon graduation or an online program from the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.
Internships
-
An internship as an assistant fashion stylist can go a long way to helping a candidate land a job right out of school. Other relevant experiences that can help newcomers break into the field include retail display work as well as merchandising in retail environments. Independent fashion stylists with a thriving business bring on assistants, who can move on to form their own companies eventually or use the experience to land a position with a larger corporate design studio or national magazine.
-
Employers
-
A fashion stylist often works directly for magazines and large newspapers that create ads for clients. Public relations groups, advertising agencies and catalog publishers employ fashion stylists on a full-time basis. Fashion stylist jobs can be found at movie studios and video production groups.
Independents
-
Successful fashion stylists eventually form their own companies. They typically have worked for years to develop the contacts inside the design industry who call them to assist on large projects. Before heading out on your own, spend time developing a portfolio of work to show to potential clients. Build relationships with photographers and advertising executives. Work to develop a reputation within the industry for quality work, even tempered artists and reliable project completion.
Advancement
-
Large corporations employ an entire fashion design department that offers opportunities to move up from an entry-level gopher position to senior stylist, art director and more. After accruing a wealth of experience and a full portfolio, consider using a headhunter or a job search site, such as Fashion Jobs Central, to find an executive position if you don't want to start your own company.
-
Resources
- Photo Credit Ervin Bacik
