It’s easy to think that styling is all about great fashion and accessories, and while that’s a big part of it, there’s so much more to it than that.
How do I know this? Well, in case we haven’t met before, I’m Lauren, founder of Australian Style Institute and a Professional Stylist for over 15 years. I’ve worked with some of the most celebrated fashion labels and clients around the world, and in that time, it became clear that there was so much more to styling that just isn’t being taught.
Now, it’s my mission to teach others those practical styling skills and secrets to enable you to confidently style any concept, with any budget, anywhere in the world.
And let me tell you, it’s the most amazing job you’ll ever have!
I’m an open book. So let’s start here…
The 5 things I wish someone had told me about becoming an Editorial Stylist.
1. You might not see your work in magazines
But you may see your work go viral on social media or on the back of a bus, or maybe on the wall of your favourite shoe store. Magazine styling is just one avenue. there’s been an increased demand for digital publications and online content, meaning Editorial Stylists are busier than ever! From fashion labels, to car companies, hotel groups and homewares, if there’s a person, pet or fashion accessory in the shoot, there’s been an Editorial Stylist involved.
2. A creative eye isn’t enough.
I wish someone told me earlier that I needed great communication, business and marketing skills to compliment my creative eye. Because when you work with collaborative teams, timelines and big client budgets you want to know you have what it takes to deliver. Every ASI student graduates with essential communication and business skills to confidently accept any editorial work that comes their way.
3. Stylists are in demand
“But is there really enough work out there?” It’s something I heard a lot when I got started, and the truth is it was enough work then, and there’s even more now. As I mentioned, digital publications and fresh online content is required almost daily now that brands are planning their editorial campaigns months, seasons and years in advance. This is not a catty industry and gone are the days of fighting for an editorial stylist position. You’ll often work alongside other stylists and create magic together.
4. There is a secret to styling success.
I quickly learnt that working with a range of creative people and strong personalities requires skills in human behaviour. Understanding how different people interact and communicate truly is the secret to success that no one tells you about. Whether it’s in Personal Styling or Editorial Styling, every ASI student covers a module on human behaviour and graduates with the skills to apply in their styling careers and beyond.
5. You’ll never know if you don’t try.
You can spend years reading tips, tricks and how to’s on becoming a stylist but without the practical training, network and education, you’ll likely never truly know what it’s like to be one (trust me.) You don’t have to know which pathway you’ll end up on, but if you take the first step, especially with ASI, you can’t fail. The unlimited support and mentoring from the team ensures you are equipped to take on every opportunity. From working with your favourite brands on campaign shoots to styling models or celebs, you CAN have it all.
