A Fashion stylist. Is a person who knows what’s in and what’s out, what’s you and what needs to be burned, the one who makes you look fabulous without making it look like you tried at all. Don’t have one of those people in your speed dial? Neither do we. No worries, though. You don’t need a personal stylist. You just need to master these steps.
1. Find your signature style
Find a look that’s all your own based on your personality, your body and your lifestyle.
Once you’ve chosen the look that’s you, stick to it and ask yourself do they really look good on your figure? (check out blog post - style tip 2 here!) Be honest with yourself. Once you’ve got that down, it’s time for the fun part– shopping!
2. Begin with the basics
Building a wardrobe actually starts with purging. Go through your closet and toss or donate everything that doesn’t fit or flatter. Once you’ve done that, you’ll have a better idea of what you have to work with and what you need to put on your shopping list. (check out blog post - style tip 3 here!)
It can take years to build your wardrobe, but you don’t need to have your closet full in order to rock your signature look. Just make sure that the things you buy are the right things. Five items we recommend: a pair of jeans, a handbag, a basic pair of shoes, a jacket and a staple accessory such as a watch, a strand of pearls or a goes-with-everything belt. As you continue to expand your wardrobe, think systematically: know what’s already in it. Before you buy anything, make sure it goes with something you already own. That way, you’ll get maximum use out of minimal pieces.
3. Pay attention to detail
There’s a lot more to a look than just a dress, shoes and bag. Reflect on the total picture when piecing together your ensemble for a meeting, a date or a night out. From lip and nail color to hairstyle and even skin tone, the difference between “eh” and “wow” is all in the little things. If it sounds like too much to handle, then just make sure to limit your options when you shop. Can’t afford a spray tan? Don’t buy a dress that washes you out. Hate wearing Spanx? Find an ensemble that flatters your curves on its own.
5. Play dress up
Experimenting with separates, accessories and trends isn’t the best way to establish your style; it’s the only way. Rather than rushing in and out of stores like you’re on a mission, take a Saturday afternoon to invest in yourself and your appearance. Try colours you haven’t tried before, and be open to new silhouettes and trends. Don’t have the time or patience for the dressing room? Mix, match and be meticulous until you create a look that’s perfect for you. When you feel fabulous in what you’re wearing, that’s when you know you’ve mastered your style.
Become a fashion stylist as a career a good place to start is to Study fashion and seek out a fashion styling internship early in your training process, the earlier the better. First of all, you need to have a good eye. Secondly, some sort of fashion education helps, but isn’t necessary. Ultimately it is about assisting other stylists while learning the ropes, and then hopefully being able to go out on your own. To be a stylist you should have a certain confidence and your own original point of view of fashion—without being too pushy, snobby or bossy. You need to be able to stand up and handle your job and be the expert.
- Be technically good at fitting clothing to someone.
- Be creative and have an eye for what works and what doesn’t and be well studied about trends, designers, points of reference, your city, your market, the market’s clients, your competition.
- Be able to direct and listen and be strong and humble.
You are your best advertising. Remember you are in the business of image and presentation. Make sure that you always look your best. You never know where you will meet your next client.