Editorial Stylist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the high-paced world of fashion, the demand for editorial stylists has never been more vibrant.

As fashion continues to evolve, so does the need for creative minds who can style, adapt, and ensure the overall aesthetic vision is executed impeccably.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an editorial stylist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to sketch out the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the realm of fashion styling,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable editorial stylist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or fashion career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Editorial Stylist Duties and Responsibilities

Editorial Stylists are responsible for developing and executing creative fashion concepts for publications, advertising campaigns, and other media outlets.

They work closely with photographers, models, and designers to create visually compelling content that aligns with a brand’s aesthetic and marketing goals.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Researching and staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and industry developments
• Developing creative styling concepts that align with editorial themes and objectives
• Collaborating with photographers, models, makeup artists, hair stylists, and designers to execute photo shoots
• Selecting and sourcing clothing and accessories for photo shoots
• Coordinating fittings and making necessary adjustments to garments
• Styling models on set to ensure garments and accessories are properly presented
• Ensuring that the styling aligns with the brand image and editorial objectives
• Reviewing and editing final images to ensure they meet quality standards
• Maintaining a network of industry contacts, including designers, models, photographers, and other stylists
• Attending fashion shows, trade shows, and industry events to stay informed about new trends and products

 

Editorial Stylist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a creative and detail-oriented Editorial Stylist to join our team.

Your responsibilities will include selecting clothing and accessories for editorial features, coordinating with photographers and models, and staying up-to-date with the latest fashion trends.

Our ideal candidate has a strong fashion sense, excellent interpersonal skills, and can work under tight deadlines.

You should have a deep understanding of the fashion industry and be able to create compelling and visually stunning fashion editorials.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with photographers, models, makeup artists, and other stylists to achieve the desired look
• Select clothing and accessories for editorial features
• Stay current with the latest fashion trends and industry news
• Plan and execute photoshoots
• Ensure the outfits reflect the vision and theme of the editorial
• Manage inventory and returns of clothing and accessories
• Communicate with designers and PR agencies to borrow items
• Provide fashion advice and guidance to clients and models

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Stylist or similar role in the fashion industry
• Strong visual and fashion sense
• Familiarity with a variety of brands, designers, and fashion trends
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work well in a team
• Degree in Fashion Design, Visual Arts or relevant field is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunity to work with high-end fashion brands
• Career development opportunities in the fashion industry

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Editorial Stylist
• Work Environment: This role often requires working on location for photoshoots, attending fashion events, and occasionally working irregular hours to meet deadlines.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Fashion Editor or Creative Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a portfolio showing your work to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does an Editorial Stylist Do?

Editorial Stylists work predominantly in the fashion and media industries, but they can also work for corporations, retailers, designers, and individual clients.

Their primary responsibility is to create and style outfits for fashion editorial features, advertising campaigns, or any other media publications.

This process includes selecting clothing, accessories, and sometimes props to be used in the photoshoots.

They work closely with photographers, models, makeup artists, and hair stylists to achieve a specific look or theme envisioned by a fashion editor or a creative director.

Editorial Stylists also need to be aware of current and upcoming fashion trends to ensure their styling is relevant and up-to-date.

They often source clothing from a variety of places, including designer showrooms, vintage stores, and retail shops.

Additionally, an Editorial Stylist may also be responsible for negotiating with public relations companies and designers for clothing loans, returning loaned items after shoots, and managing budgets.

They may also work with models on set, helping them with outfit changes and ensuring the clothes fit properly and look their best in photos.

 

Editorial Stylist Qualifications and Skills

An Editorial Stylist must possess a unique blend of technical, creative, and interpersonal skills, including:

• A keen eye for detail and the ability to create visually compelling styles tailored to specific editorial themes and briefs.
• Technical knowledge and skill for clothing, accessories, and overall styling to ensure proper fit, arrangement, and visual impact.
• Interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with photographers, models, designers, makeup artists, and other team members.
• Creativity and vision to develop innovative and trend-setting looks for diverse editorial contexts.
• Communication skills to clearly articulate styling concepts and directions, and to understand and execute the creative vision of others.
• Problem-solving skills to effectively handle issues that may arise during photo shoots such as wardrobe malfunctions, fitting issues, or unexpected changes in the creative direction.
• Time management skills to ensure that all styling-related tasks are completed within the constraints of often tight editorial deadlines.
• Knowledge of fashion history, current trends, and designer collections to ensure the relevancy and freshness of editorial styles.

 

Editorial Stylist Experience Requirements

Editorial Stylists often start their career with a degree in fashion, design or a related field.

This provides a foundation in understanding trends, fabrics, and design principles.

Entry-level editorial stylists typically have 1-2 years of experience, which may be acquired through internships or part-time roles at fashion houses, magazines, or ad agencies.

They may also gain experience by assisting more established stylists.

Candidates with 3-5 years of experience usually have a well-developed portfolio showcasing their work in various mediums such as print, digital, and film.

They also have strong relationships with designers, models, photographers, and other professionals in the industry.

Those with more than 5 years of experience often have experience managing teams, overseeing large-scale photoshoots, and working with high-profile clients.

They may be ready for roles such as Head Stylist or Creative Director.

Regardless of years of experience, all editorial stylists should have a keen eye for detail, a strong sense of style, and the ability to bring creative concepts to life.

Continuous learning, staying abreast with the latest fashion trends and design influences are also crucial aspects of their career progression.

 

Editorial Stylist Education and Training Requirements

Becoming an Editorial Stylist generally requires a bachelor’s degree in fashion design, fashion styling or a related field.

The coursework typically involves studying fashion history, textiles, color theory, garment construction, and computer-aided design.

Practical experience is also crucial in this industry, so internships or work experience in fashion design, merchandising, or styling are highly beneficial.

Many stylists start as assistants and learn on the job, developing a portfolio of work that showcases their unique style and ability to create a visually appealing look.

As editorial work often involves working with photographers and models, courses in photography or experience in a photography studio can also be advantageous.

No specific license is required to work as an Editorial Stylist, but ongoing training and staying up-to-date with fashion trends and designer collections is essential.

Some stylists may also choose to undertake further education and earn a master’s degree in fashion or a related field, which could lead to opportunities in teaching or higher-level design roles.

In addition, participation in industry events like fashion weeks, trade shows, or networking events can provide valuable connections and exposure in this highly competitive field.

 

Editorial Stylist Salary Expectations

An Editorial Stylist earns an average salary of $50,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can greatly vary depending on factors such as experience, reputation in the industry, location, and the scale of projects they work on.

 

Editorial Stylist Job Description FAQs

What skills does an Editorial Stylist need?

Editorial Stylists need to have a strong sense of fashion and current trends.

They should also have excellent communication skills to understand and interpret the vision of the designer, photographer, or director.

Problem-solving skills are crucial in order to adapt to unexpected situations and create outstanding looks under pressure.

Basic hair and makeup skills can also be beneficial.

 

Do Editorial Stylists need a degree?

While a degree is not always necessary, it can be beneficial for an Editorial Stylist to have a degree in Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field.

Experience and a well-structured portfolio are often more important in this field.

Internships or apprenticeships under experienced stylists can also provide valuable on-the-job training.

 

What should you look for in an Editorial Stylist’s resume?

A strong Editorial Stylist’s resume should include a solid portfolio showcasing their work in various settings, such as magazines, advertisements, and fashion shows.

They should also have experience working with a diverse range of designers, photographers, and models.

Skills such as attention to detail, creativity, and the ability to work under pressure should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Editorial Stylist?

A good Editorial Stylist is creative and has a strong vision, but is also flexible enough to adapt to the needs of the project.

They should have excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with the design and production teams.

Attention to detail, the ability to work under pressure, and a deep understanding of fashion history and current trends are also crucial qualities.

 

Is it difficult to hire an Editorial Stylist?

Hiring an Editorial Stylist can be challenging due to the high demand and competitive nature of the fashion industry.

It’s important to have a clear understanding of the project’s vision and requirements to select the most suitable candidate.

Offering competitive compensation, a positive work environment, and opportunities for creative freedom can attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the intricacies of being an editorial stylist.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not just about picking clothes.

It’s about shaping the visual narrative, one outfit at a time.

Armed with our detailed editorial stylist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Delve deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating precision-crafted job listings or refining your portfolio to perfection.

Remember:

Every outfit you create tells a unique story.

Let’s style that narrative. Together.

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