Career focus... How to be a Fashion Stylist

This week our Busy Career Experts headed on down to The Manchester Fashion Network to bring you a quick no nonsense guide to getting into the industry.

We met with Sian Lloyd Jones, who works for Nemesis models, River Island, Next & top designers & International Stylist Karen Jones Russell, who trained with Diesel & TopShop & owns Personal Styling Agency, Style Shuffle. Plus, Charlotte Alexa who is a photographic agent with massive clients like River Island, Nike & Littlewoods.

What is a Fashion Stylist?

Karen "In a nutshell, we style models, sets & products for commercial campaigns & editorial photography. We do everything from choosing the outfits the models are going to wear, to staging the scene, to buying the props & arranging the whole look."

What skills do you need?

Sian "We need to have a good eye for detail, a flair for fashion, be constantly aware of what's on trend & what's coming in next. You need to be really hard working & on the ball with meeting clients' demands".

How do you get into Fashion Styling?

Charlotte "When you start you'll need to offer to work for free & do tests. Tests are where you produce free shoots with other training photographers, make-up artists & modelling agencies, to add to your portfolio. This should be themed & styled as fantastically & creative as you can. Then you can present your ideas & experience to your future employer."

How much do you earn?

Karen "Initially, you don't get paid, which can be difficult if you need to support yourself but it's invaluable for experience. The only way to earn big money is go freelance".
Charlotte "You can earn more per job in London but it's very competitive. If you work in Manchester you'll be working more days a week but for a little less pay"

Do you need a degree?

Sian "Personally, I did not have a degree, & don't believe it's the neccessary key to success"
Karen "A degree will refine & enhance your ideas & ways of working, however experience is the most important aspect."

How do you stay ahead of your game?

Charlotte "The key aspect to being successful is maintaining your portfolio to a high standard, ensuring that there are always new & fresh ideas in it. This shows an employer that you are completely aware of what works & it reflects your style. At the end of the day, the portfolio is the most important tool as it determines whether you gain the job or not."
Karen "Also, I recommend that you are aware of the current trends, but most importantly, what is up & coming. Your ability to predict & forecast what will be hot next season will ensure that you go far within the fashion world."

What are the low points?

Sian "Well, this job is really a 24 hour, 7 day a week role. There is no rest!"
Karen| "Absolutely. If you're not working on a fashion shoot then you're preparing for your next job. It really is non-stop."
Charlotte "When you begin, the initial first year, you will be mainly working for free. However, if you are patient & determined, you can reach your goals & the end result is worth it."

For more information on becoming a Fashion Stylist, why not attend one of The Manchester Fashion Network next events? Held at The Circle Club in Manchester, you won't get better advice than from The Experts...