Denise Brown Task What is a fashion stylist? A shoot without a fashion stylist is like an orchestra without an experienced conductor. When an actor, model or celebrity involves themselves in any project, it is the creative responsibility of the stylist to make sure that their appearance is curated thoughtfully and represents their brand. No matter what kind of event or concept the stylist is involved in, they have a great deal of power that can ultimately determine the success of the venture. Styling is not just picking pieces out of a wardrobe. It has many layers to it. Coordinating with different companies, managing garment care and maintaining consistency in the aesthetic image of the person being styled requires great attention to detail and a genuine love for fashion. Why are fashion stylists essential to the success of creative projects? When a strong creative team of photographers, art directors, editors, hair stylists, makeup artists and models come together, a stylist is responsible to consider all their visions and conjure an ensemble that brings to life the collective concept and portrays everyone’s greatest strengths. As is the case with any craft, practice makes perfect stylists. The more projects a stylist is involved in, they are able to gain invaluable information about their clientele and give them a chance to experiment with new ideas as well as improve outdated or overdone ones. Additionally, discipline is everything. Stylists need to be wellorganised and communicate effectively. What makes a successful fashion stylist? When you’re a stylist, your client comes first. However, your artistic vision is a close second. A good fashion stylist must understand what their client is comfortable in, what they like and what they can be persuaded to try. Having a good rapport with your client is crucial in getting memorable results. When you operate in this profession, it is an unspoken rule that you represent your work everyday through your own personal style. This means that no matter where you are, you must look your best. It’s almost like you are working 24/7 because even on your days off, you collect new ideas by observing and researching trends. You absolutely have to be forward-thinking in order to be one step ahead of the game. To be extraordinary, a stylist must aim not just to adhere to trends but to set them for the rest of the industry. It’s not just a job, it’s a way of life!