So you have a passion for fashion and want to turn it into a career as a stylist. Great, it's an exciting field, but how do you gain the skills and experience to land your first big gig? The good news is you don't necessarily need a fancy fashion degree to get started.
There are many courses taught by industry experts that can teach you the fundamentals and help you build your portfolio. Whether you want to style models, do personal wardrobe consulting, or work on photo shoots, here are some of the top stylist courses to launch your fashion career now. In a few short months, you'll gain valuable knowledge and connections to start booking clients and making money doing what you love.
Introduction to Fashion Styling as a Career
So you want to be a fashion stylist? It's an exciting career, but also competitive. The good news is, with the right training and experience, you can launch a successful styling career.
Education and Courses
There are many courses and programs to help you develop the skills to become a stylist. While a degree in fashion design or merchandising is helpful, it's not always required. Certification programs, online courses, and styling bootcamps can teach you the fundamentals. Some recommended options:
-Fashion Styling Certification from the Fashion Styling Institute. This 6-week online program covers trend forecasting, media styling, and building a portfolio.
-Fashion Styling Workshop from the London College of Style. An intensive 4-day course in London covering all areas of styling from personal shopping to commercial work. Great for hands-on experience.
-Fashion Styling Bootcamp from Miami Fashion Institute. An 8-week bootcamp program focused on editorial styling, including photoshoots and guidance from industry professionals.
-Online courses on Udemy, Skillshare, or MasterClass. Affordable e-learning options with video tutorials covering styling essentials like trend analysis, branding, and client management.
While developing technical skills is key, don't forget soft skills like communication, time management, and the ability to take feedback. With the right fashion styling courses and dedication, you'll gain the knowledge and experience to start building your portfolio and client list. The glamorous world of styling awaits!
Top Online Fashion Stylist Courses
Online courses are a great way to learn the skills you need to become a fashion stylist, all from the comfort of your home. Here are some of the top options to get you started:
The Fashion Stylist Institute
This highly-rated course teaches you everything from developing a stylist portfolio to planning high-fashion photo shoots. Over 12 weeks, you'll learn through video lectures, readings, quizzes and by completing real-world style projects. Students rave about the insightful feedback and mentoring from working stylists.
Udemy: Become a Fashion Stylist: Start Your Own Fashion Styling Business
Taught by a stylist with over 10 years of experience, this popular course covers the essentials of the fashion industry and how to build your own business. You'll learn how to determine your target client and develop a strong stylist portfolio, as well as practical skills like how to dress different body types and stay on top of trends. With over 750 reviews and a 4.5 star rating, this course offers amazing value.
The Stylist Academy
For an intensive education, The Stylist Academy offers both online and in-person courses in major cities. Their 12-week Virtual Styling course teaches industry knowledge, trend forecasting, and client services through live video sessions and instructor feedback. Students say the networking opportunities and real-world advice has been invaluable to launching their careers. While pricier, The Stylist Academy is ideal if you want guidance from top stylists.
With the wealth of courses available, you can find an option tailored to your needs and budget. The key is just taking that first step to turn your passion for fashion into a thriving career as a stylist. Now get out there and start learning - your dream job awaits!
Best in-Person Fashion Stylist Certification Programs
The fashion industry is competitive, so having the right training and certification can help launch your career as a stylist. Some of the best in-person programs are:
Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM)
With campuses in LA and San Francisco, FIDM offers an Advanced Study in Fashion Styling program. In this one-year intensive, you’ll learn styling for photography, video, celebrities, and editorial. You’ll get hands-on experience and opportunities to network with industry professionals. FIDM is a highly respected school for aspiring stylists and fashion careers.
London College of Fashion
Part of the University of the Arts London, the London College of Fashion provides a Fashion Styling and Production program. Over two years, you’ll study fashion history, styling techniques, branding, and production. With London being an epicenter of fashion, you’ll have access to internships and work experience opportunities. The college also has a strong focus on sustainability and ethics.
Polimoda Institute of Fashion Design & Marketing
Florence, Italy is home to the Polimoda Institute, which offers a year-long Fashion Styling course. You’ll learn from working professionals in the historical center of Florence. The curriculum focuses on styling for photography, music videos, celebrities and events. You’ll also study fashion history, trends, and branding. With strong ties to the Italian fashion industry, Polimoda provides internship and networking opportunities.
In-person fashion stylist programs provide hands-on experience, mentorship, and industry connections that are invaluable for launching your career. While the costs of these programs can be high, the long term payoff in experience and job opportunities make them worth considering if you’re serious about becoming a professional fashion stylist.
Tips for Choosing the Right Stylist Course for You
When choosing a stylist course, there are a few factors to consider to find the right fit for your needs and goals.
Course Focus
Do you want to focus on a specific area of styling like fashion, wardrobe, or image consulting? Or do you prefer a more general course to provide an overview of the industry? General courses offer a broad introduction, while specialized programs dive deep into a concentration. Think about where your interests lie and the type of stylist you want to become.
Certificate or Degree
Stylist certifications and degrees are both options, depending on your level of experience and education. Certification programs typically require less time and money but still provide valuable skills and knowledge. Associate's or bachelor's degrees in fashion styling provide a more comprehensive education. Consider your budget and how much time you want to commit to your studies.
Online or In-Person
Today, many stylist courses are offered online for added flexibility and convenience. However, in-person courses at a design school or college allow for hands-on learning, networking, and mentorship opportunities. Think about whether you prefer self-paced online learning or a more collaborative classroom environment. Some programs also offer a hybrid of online and in-person components.
Post-Course Support
Look for a program that provides support after you complete the coursework. Continued education, networking, job placement assistance, and mentorship are extremely valuable for launching your styling career. Consider programs that provide lifetime access to resources, job boards, and an alumni community.
Cost and Financing
Course fees can range widely depending on the program. Look for a course that fits your budget, and explore financing options like scholarships, grants, student loans, and payment plans if needed. While cost is important, don't choose a course solely based on price. Consider the value and quality of education to set yourself up for success as a stylist.
With the right program, you'll gain the skills, experience, and credentials to start your dream career as a stylist. Evaluate your options carefully based on your priorities and goals to find the perfect stylist course for you.
How to Get Started as a Fashion Stylist After Completing Your Training
Once you’ve completed your fashion stylist courses and training, it’s time to start building your portfolio and client base. Here are some tips to get your fashion styling career up and running:
Start with friends and family
Offer your services for free to people you know to gain experience and build your portfolio. Style them for events, photo shoots or just everyday wear. Ask them to spread the word about your new business and for testimonials you can use on your website or social media.
Create a website to showcase your work
A professional website is essential for any stylist. Include details about your training, experience, services offered and rates. Post photos of your styling work, testimonials from clients and your contact information. Optimize your site for search engines by using important key phrases like “fashion stylist,” “wardrobe consultant” and “personal shopper.”
Build your portfolio
Your portfolio shows potential clients what you can do. Continue styling friends and family and ask if you can photograph their outfits for your portfolio. You might also reach out to local boutiques or designers and offer to style their clothing for photo shoots to build your portfolio.
Market your services
Start promoting your fashion styling business on social media like Instagram and Facebook. Post photos of your work, share style tips and tricks, and engage with your followers. You can also reach new clients through sites like Thumbtack, Craigslist, or fashion industry job boards. Send emails to local boutiques, photographers, and wedding planners offering your services.
Stay up-to-date with trends
Successful stylists keep on top of the latest fashion and style trends. Follow influencers on social media, read fashion blogs and magazines, and watch runway shows. Take additional courses to strengthen your skills in areas like personal shopping, wardrobe consulting or editorial styling. Continuous learning will make you a better stylist and open you up to more career opportunities.
With dedication and hard work, you can launch a successful fashion styling career. Stay passionate, keep honing your craft, and never stop networking – your dream job as a stylist could be just around the corner!
