5 answers
CareerVillage Office Hours
Student
Palo Alto, California
574
Questions
Asked
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How to become a stylist?
Share your journey & guide aspiring stylists on their path!
Note: We've seen a lot of interest in this career, so we're looking for guidance from our community of professionals.
5 answers
Angel S
UI/UX Design Aspirant
452
Answers
India
Updated
Angel’s Answer
To become a stylist, start by gaining experience and education in fashion or related fields. You can attend a fashion school or take courses in styling, design, or merchandising. Building a portfolio, networking with professionals, and getting internships or freelance gigs are crucial steps. Passion and creativity are key!
Chiara Toscano
6
Answers
Rome, Lazio, Italy
Updated
Chiara’s Answer
Hello!
Firstly, it's crucial to decide whether you're aiming for editorial or commercial roles. If that's the case, consider enrolling in a reputable university course. This can significantly increase your chances of being selected by brands or newspapers.
On the other hand, if you're more interested in becoming a personal stylist, there's no need to invest in pricey academies. Clients typically prefer seeing tangible evidence of your work on real projects.
I personally studied Image Consulting and Fashion Styling at Istituto Marangoni and Parsons. I believe sharing my experiences might provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect.
Although I originally graduated in law, the aforementioned courses have allowed me to build a substantial client base as a stylist.
A practical solution is to start building a portfolio that accurately reflects your skills and capabilities.
Feel free to reach out if you need any further advices!
Firstly, it's crucial to decide whether you're aiming for editorial or commercial roles. If that's the case, consider enrolling in a reputable university course. This can significantly increase your chances of being selected by brands or newspapers.
On the other hand, if you're more interested in becoming a personal stylist, there's no need to invest in pricey academies. Clients typically prefer seeing tangible evidence of your work on real projects.
I personally studied Image Consulting and Fashion Styling at Istituto Marangoni and Parsons. I believe sharing my experiences might provide you with a clearer picture of what to expect.
Although I originally graduated in law, the aforementioned courses have allowed me to build a substantial client base as a stylist.
A practical solution is to start building a portfolio that accurately reflects your skills and capabilities.
Feel free to reach out if you need any further advices!
John Hand
User Experience Designer
50
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
John’s Answer
Some high schools offer a work-study program where students can complete their high school courses while attending cosmetology school. Typically, those programs require students to get a certain number of practice hours in before they can receive their certification. This is where networking with local salons come in. You'll need to build a relationship with a stylist and basically become their apprentice while you log your practice hours. They might have you help with their work, but as you build your skills, you can likely even start working with their clients and making money. This gives students a lot of freedom and incentivizes them to continue with the career path.
Once you've got your certificate, you can go off on your own. That could look like joining a salon, leasing a chair from an existing salon, or even starting your own business. At this point location and building your client base is essential. Ideally, you'll want to try and focus your efforts on customers who will regularly schedule appointments with you, rather than taking walk-ins. This will help you build long term relationships with clients who trust you. Those clients are key because they will tell their friends about you and continue coming to you regardless of where you might move locally.
The longer you stay in the field, the more you can charge for your services. Clients tend to be very loyal once they've found a stylist they like, and the compensation can be very generous. One key aspect about this line of work is that stylists are kind of like motivational therapists. Clients often come in a talk to their stylist while they are receiving services, sometimes unloading all of their drama. The stylist's job is to make them feel safe, heard, and comfortable, and transform their appearance to make sure that they feel better about themselves when they leave. This can be emotionally draining, but I know of two people who went to cosmetology school during high school and they both have successful, lucrative careers that they love.
Once you've got your certificate, you can go off on your own. That could look like joining a salon, leasing a chair from an existing salon, or even starting your own business. At this point location and building your client base is essential. Ideally, you'll want to try and focus your efforts on customers who will regularly schedule appointments with you, rather than taking walk-ins. This will help you build long term relationships with clients who trust you. Those clients are key because they will tell their friends about you and continue coming to you regardless of where you might move locally.
The longer you stay in the field, the more you can charge for your services. Clients tend to be very loyal once they've found a stylist they like, and the compensation can be very generous. One key aspect about this line of work is that stylists are kind of like motivational therapists. Clients often come in a talk to their stylist while they are receiving services, sometimes unloading all of their drama. The stylist's job is to make them feel safe, heard, and comfortable, and transform their appearance to make sure that they feel better about themselves when they leave. This can be emotionally draining, but I know of two people who went to cosmetology school during high school and they both have successful, lucrative careers that they love.
David L. Phillips
Solution Consultant
4
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
David L.’s Answer
My daughter is a stylist. She attended cosmetology school at our local community college. This gave her a firm foundation, including working with clients in the school's salon. The school offered assistance in getting placed in a position after graduation, but I would suggest building some relationships with salons and their owners as you approach graduation. As always, seek advice from people who are successful and experienced in the field. Once you are in the field, never stop learning. Your school will not teach you everything you need or want to learn, especially if you are interested in a niche specialty. Seek additional training when you can. If you work in larger salon, training might be offered to you by the owners.
Finally, always keep in mind the need to grow your client list. Don't be afraid to ask people you meet if they have someone currently and if they are satisfied. If they are not locked into a stylist, ask them to give you a chance. You have nothing to lose by asking.
Finally, always keep in mind the need to grow your client list. Don't be afraid to ask people you meet if they have someone currently and if they are satisfied. If they are not locked into a stylist, ask them to give you a chance. You have nothing to lose by asking.
James Constantine Frangos
SOFTWARE ENGINEER SINCE 1972; NUTRITIONIST SINCE 1976.
7094
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Career Village Office Hours Staff!
How to Become a Stylist
Becoming a stylist involves several steps, including education, gaining experience, and building a personal brand. Here’s a detailed guide on how to pursue a career as a stylist:
1. Understand the Role of a Stylist
A stylist is responsible for creating looks that enhance an individual’s appearance or the visual presentation of products in various industries such as fashion, film, television, and advertising. Stylists may specialize in areas like personal styling, editorial styling, or wardrobe styling.
2. Education and Training
While formal education is not always required to become a stylist, it can be beneficial. Here are some educational paths you might consider:
Fashion Design Degree: Pursuing a degree in fashion design or fashion merchandising can provide foundational knowledge about fabrics, color theory, and design principles.
Styling Courses: Many institutions offer specific courses in styling that cover topics such as trend forecasting, client consultation, and portfolio development.
Workshops and Certifications: Attending workshops or obtaining certifications from recognized organizations can enhance your skills and credibility.
3. Gain Experience
Experience is crucial in this field. Here are ways to gain practical experience:
Internships: Seek internships with established stylists or fashion houses. This hands-on experience will help you learn the ropes of the industry.
Assisting Established Stylists: Working as an assistant to an experienced stylist can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of the job.
Freelancing: Start taking on small freelance projects to build your portfolio. Offer your services for events like weddings or photoshoots.
4. Build Your Portfolio
A strong portfolio showcases your work and style. Include high-quality images of your styling projects, whether they are personal clients or collaborations with photographers and models. Make sure to highlight diverse styles to attract different clientele.
5. Networking
Networking is essential in the fashion industry:
Attend Fashion Events: Participate in fashion shows, exhibitions, and industry events to meet professionals and potential clients.
Join Professional Organizations: Becoming a member of organizations such as the Fashion Group International (FGI) can provide networking opportunities and resources.
6. Develop Your Personal Brand
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital:
Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram or Pinterest to showcase your work and connect with potential clients.
Website/Blog: Create a professional website that includes your portfolio, services offered, testimonials from clients, and contact information.
7. Stay Updated on Trends
The fashion industry is constantly evolving; therefore:
Follow Fashion Trends: Regularly read fashion magazines, blogs, and websites to stay informed about current trends.
Continuous Learning: Attend workshops or take online courses regularly to update your skills.
8. Specialize if Desired
As you gain experience, consider specializing in a particular area of styling that interests you most—be it personal styling for individuals or editorial styling for publications.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and creativity for fashion, you can successfully carve out a career as a stylist.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
FIT provides comprehensive resources on educational programs related to fashion careers including styling courses that equip aspiring stylists with necessary skills.
2. The Business of Fashion (BoF)
BoF offers insights into industry trends and professional advice from established figures in the fashion world which is invaluable for anyone looking to enter the field.
3. Vogue Business
Vogue Business covers news related to the global fashion industry including career advice which helps aspiring stylists understand market demands and opportunities.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You All!
James Constantine, The Little Old Aussie Battler.
How to Become a Stylist
Becoming a stylist involves several steps, including education, gaining experience, and building a personal brand. Here’s a detailed guide on how to pursue a career as a stylist:
1. Understand the Role of a Stylist
A stylist is responsible for creating looks that enhance an individual’s appearance or the visual presentation of products in various industries such as fashion, film, television, and advertising. Stylists may specialize in areas like personal styling, editorial styling, or wardrobe styling.
2. Education and Training
While formal education is not always required to become a stylist, it can be beneficial. Here are some educational paths you might consider:
Fashion Design Degree: Pursuing a degree in fashion design or fashion merchandising can provide foundational knowledge about fabrics, color theory, and design principles.
Styling Courses: Many institutions offer specific courses in styling that cover topics such as trend forecasting, client consultation, and portfolio development.
Workshops and Certifications: Attending workshops or obtaining certifications from recognized organizations can enhance your skills and credibility.
3. Gain Experience
Experience is crucial in this field. Here are ways to gain practical experience:
Internships: Seek internships with established stylists or fashion houses. This hands-on experience will help you learn the ropes of the industry.
Assisting Established Stylists: Working as an assistant to an experienced stylist can provide valuable insights into the day-to-day responsibilities of the job.
Freelancing: Start taking on small freelance projects to build your portfolio. Offer your services for events like weddings or photoshoots.
4. Build Your Portfolio
A strong portfolio showcases your work and style. Include high-quality images of your styling projects, whether they are personal clients or collaborations with photographers and models. Make sure to highlight diverse styles to attract different clientele.
5. Networking
Networking is essential in the fashion industry:
Attend Fashion Events: Participate in fashion shows, exhibitions, and industry events to meet professionals and potential clients.
Join Professional Organizations: Becoming a member of organizations such as the Fashion Group International (FGI) can provide networking opportunities and resources.
6. Develop Your Personal Brand
In today’s digital age, having an online presence is vital:
Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram or Pinterest to showcase your work and connect with potential clients.
Website/Blog: Create a professional website that includes your portfolio, services offered, testimonials from clients, and contact information.
7. Stay Updated on Trends
The fashion industry is constantly evolving; therefore:
Follow Fashion Trends: Regularly read fashion magazines, blogs, and websites to stay informed about current trends.
Continuous Learning: Attend workshops or take online courses regularly to update your skills.
8. Specialize if Desired
As you gain experience, consider specializing in a particular area of styling that interests you most—be it personal styling for individuals or editorial styling for publications.
By following these steps diligently while maintaining passion and creativity for fashion, you can successfully carve out a career as a stylist.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
1. Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)
FIT provides comprehensive resources on educational programs related to fashion careers including styling courses that equip aspiring stylists with necessary skills.
2. The Business of Fashion (BoF)
BoF offers insights into industry trends and professional advice from established figures in the fashion world which is invaluable for anyone looking to enter the field.
3. Vogue Business
Vogue Business covers news related to the global fashion industry including career advice which helps aspiring stylists understand market demands and opportunities.
Probability that the answer is correct: 95%
God Bless You All!
James Constantine, The Little Old Aussie Battler.
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