stylist

A stylist is a professional who plans and coordinates the appearance of individuals or spaces for events, media productions, publications, and personal clients. The term covers several specialties, including fashion stylist, wardrobe stylist, beauty stylist, hair stylist, and interior stylist.

Fashion and wardrobe stylists select clothing and accessories, assemble outfits, and manage fittings and alterations. Editorial or runway stylists craft looks to convey a concept for magazines, campaigns, or shows. Beauty stylists focus on makeup and sometimes hair to complement wardrobe and lighting.

On a shoot or production, stylists collaborate with photographers, art directors, models, and hair and makeup artists. They develop mood boards, source or rent garments, supervise grooming, ensure continuity, and manage time and budgets. They may also coordinate wardrobe care, returns, and attire changes during filming or events.

Education varies; many stylists come from fashion, design, or media backgrounds. Helpful skills include trend awareness, sewing and fabric knowledge, organization, negotiation, and strong communication. Internships and freelance work are common, with success often built through portfolios and industry networks.

The role spans fashion, film, advertising, editorial, and interior spaces. Stylists may work in studios, on location, or as part of agency teams, and often operate as freelancers or employees of fashion houses, magazines, production companies, or retailers. While influential in shaping appearances and trends, the profession also engages with questions of representation, authenticity, and consumer influence in fashion media.