So You Want to Be a Fashion Stylist?
Shopping for a living, bringing moodboards to life, attending fashion events, and getting first access to exclusive drops, I mean it sounds like a dream right?
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It is if you can get past the rough edges. It turns out, The Devil Wears Prada wasn’t that far off with the antics that the industry plays. While I wouldn’t trade what I do for anything, it’s definitely not all that it seems on social media. There have been plenty of times I have questioned why I chose such an unpaved road for a career. The industry definitely has a way of weeding out those who are truly passionate and those who just want the image and free clothes. Spoiler alert, longevity takes grit and strategy.
Here are 5 things I wish someone told me …
It’s not as glamorous as it looks
Sure you may get to go to some cool events like fashion week, and maybe even get some free clothes, but this is maybe 5-10% of the job. Depending on your clients, there is definitely glamor that can follow the job (think planes, 5 star hotels, award shows, after parties) but what you have to remember is that you are still on the clock. If you are with a client for the night of an event, your job is to make sure that everything stays in tact and absolutely nothing gets los (ESPECIALLY if they are wearing loans). Let’s not forget the prep-work it takes to even get to the point of an event. This can be weeks of researching, shopping, schlepping, and returning.
“Oh come on Kinsey, how much can it really be if it’s just one look?”
One look requires at least a full rack of options, accessories, and shoes to find THE ONE. It also can require a lot of heavy-lifting as well as constant back and forth corresponding between brands and UPS facilities. I would be lying if I told you everything goes to plan every single time. There have been countless times I have had to track down a UPS driver on my way to a fitting, or be forced to use a backup look because something didn’t come in. My garage is always full of overflowing looks from past shoots and for upcoming projects. If I am not packing/wrapping my last project, I am ordering and chasing down the perfect look for the next. The final product though? Worth it every single time.
2. Your first ‘gig’ will probably be unpaid
This one hurts and honestly can be the make it or break it for some people. Unfortunately, fashion is built on the reputation that everyone wants this which makes it competitive. With competition often comes pay cuts (especially when starting out), so don’t be surprised if the first internship or assistant position is unpaid or very low. I had about 3 unpaid internships during school before I landed my first paid assistant job. My biggest advice is to say yes to as much as you can while of course making sure your bills are being taken care of. Being in school definitely makes this point easier. While it can seem annoying to work for free, you are essentially getting paid in incomparable exposure. These internships give you the opportunity to be around some of the industry’s key players and learn from their insight while not having to worry about any major repercussions. It’s like jumping to the deep end while knowing you have a flotation device in reach. Internships like this also help you to determine what part of the industry is actually for you and if you want to stick around. There are so many different areas of styling so this is crucial. Maybe you hate commercial styling but love styling events and carpets. You never know until you try.
3. It’s all about connections (be nice!)
You have probably heard this before in one of many creative careers, and trust me it’s because it’s true. You may meet someone on a job who is an assistant while you are an unpaid intern and a year later that person gets you your first paid gig. This actually happened to me my first year of styling in LA. The point being, ask questions, be personable, and lose the ego. Everyone is in the room for a reason whether their title is above or below yours. This industry is smaller than it seems and you never know how one conversation can change the course of your career. Don’t be afraid of small talk whether at a store or on a job, it could actually lead to your next big break.
4. Survival of the fittest (and most organized)
I would say about 50% of stylists lose momentum around year 5 or 6 (maybe even sooner). It’s not because they aren’t talented but because they don’t have the systems to back them up. Remember, it may be fashion but this is still a business. You are your own boss and you MUST stay organized. Have a system for check ins, returns, budgets, invoices, etc. This is crucial for longevity and the earlier you start, the better.
In addition to systems, surround yourself with a good support system from colleagues to those you hire. You are truly only as good as your team, and if its just you right now that’s ok but make sure you have people to lean on. This job can get lonely so it is important to make friends in the industry that you can trust and go to for advice. I love having quarterly happy hours with my styling friends to be able to gain insight, support each other, and take the edge off.
5. You are your biggest advocate
As you can perceive this industry is not easy. It can be grueling and cut throat. No one is going to look out for you like you will. If you don’t believe in yourself, no one will. In an industry that is constantly looking for new talent, it’s important to keep an open mind and lead with confidence. Take the risk and trust your instincts.
