What do they do?

Do people repeatedly tell you that you have an impeccable sense of style? If yes, chances are that you will do quite well as a stylist. Styling is one of the most popular career choices available today, as it gives you enough freedom to let your creativity flow.

Stylists decide what their clients wear, and how they wear it. They mix and match various fabrics to give you a distinct look. They try and change the look of their clients by helping them experiment with different clothes, accessories, cuts, designs and colours. Not just clothes, but stylists also guide their clients on body language and posture. You can make or break your client’s image, so you need to be very careful about what you are doing. Celebs flaunt certain styles, that become style statements.

Aamir Khan’s goatee in Dil Chahta Hai, for instance became a rage with youngsters and continues to be associated with his character in the movie. Similarly, when Vidya Balan was styled by Sabyasachi in Paa, her look became an instant hit overnight and got her rave reviews, which has become her trademark look of sorts now. This is the power of a stylist!

Skills Needed

• Have interest in fashion
• Be updated on latest style trends
• Have an eye for detail
• They should enjoy shopping
• Must be detail oriented
• You should be able to think out of the box, and come up with funky, creative designs
• Above all, they need to have excellent interpersonal skills required to interact with a number of people they come across everyday

How do I get there?

The road to become a stylist depend on your SQ or ‘Style Quotient’. After class 12, you can get into a fashion design programme offered by a recognised college. Or, one can enroll in a regular bachelor’s programme and try to intern under a stylist and pick up styling tips on the job. Another option is to train at fashion magazines and help in organising fashion shoots. These experiences will help you gain a smooth entry into the profession once you graduate.

Typical day in the life of a Stylist

Pros & Cons about this career