Film and Television Stylist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of entertainment, the role of Film and Television Stylists has never been more essential.

As media and visual aesthetics evolve, so does the demand for creative minds who can shape, enhance, and protect our on-screen narratives.

But let’s look closer: What’s truly expected from a Film and Television Stylist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the heart of this role,
• A casting director drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes of film and television production,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Film and Television Stylist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Film and Television Stylist Duties and Responsibilities

Film and Television Stylists work closely with directors, producers, and costume designers to create the look for characters in film and television.

They are responsible for choosing, arranging, and maintaining the wardrobe for film and television sets.

The duties and responsibilities of a Film and Television Stylist include:

• Collaborating with directors and producers to understand the required look and feel for characters
• Researching different time periods, professions, and lifestyles for accurate costume designs
• Sourcing, designing, and creating wardrobe pieces as per the script requirements
• Fitting and altering costumes for actors
• Maintaining continuity in characters’ costumes throughout filming
• Keeping a record of all the costumes used and ensuring their safe storage
• Managing the costume budget and ensuring cost-effectiveness
• Working closely with makeup artists and hair stylists to create a complete look for characters
• Adapting to last-minute script and schedule changes
• Ensuring costumes comply with health and safety regulations

 

Film and Television Stylist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a talented and creative Film and Television Stylist to curate the look and feel of characters for our various media projects.

You will be responsible for creating visually stunning, contemporary and brand relevant designs from concept through to creation.

The stylist will work closely with directors, producers, costume designers, and other members of the crew to ensure the visual impact matches the storyline.

The ideal candidate has a deep understanding of fashion, cultural trends, and historical eras, as well as the ability to translate scripts into visual art.

 

Responsibilities

• Consult with directors and producers to understand the visual needs of the project
• Study scripts to understand character requirements and develop suitable stylistic ideas
• Create and present mood boards to express design visions
• Source clothing, accessories, and props required for shoots
• Fit and alter costumes and outfits as needed
• Coordinate with makeup artists and hairstylists to create a complete look for characters
• Ensure that all outfits and accessories are prepared and ready for shooting schedules
• Maintain continuity in all episodes and scenes
• Manage budgets effectively

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Stylist in the film or television industry
• Strong creative flair and artistic ability
• Outstanding knowledge of fashion and style trends, both historical and contemporary
• Excellent organizational and project management skills
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with suppliers and designers
• BSc degree in Fashion Design or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Film and Television Stylist
• Work Environment: This role may require both studio and on-location work. Some travel may be necessary depending on the nature of the projects.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Art Director or Production Designer.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $50,000 minimum to $120,000 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, portfolio and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Film and Television Stylist Do?

Film and Television Stylists work in the entertainment industry, often employed by film studios, television production companies, or self-employed as freelance stylists.

Their role primarily revolves around creating looks for actors and actresses that align with a character’s personality, the show’s theme, and the director’s vision.

This can involve sourcing clothing, accessories, and sometimes even designing custom pieces.

They work closely with costume designers, directors, producers, and sometimes even the actors themselves, to create wardrobe decisions that will best represent the character.

A Film and Television Stylist will also manage wardrobe fitting sessions, ensuring each piece fits the actors perfectly and is in keeping with their character’s style.

During filming, they are responsible for maintaining continuity in the characters’ wardrobe, ensuring the clothes remain consistent and coherent throughout different scenes and episodes.

Film and Television Stylists may also be required to research different time periods, cultures, and fashion trends to accurately represent the character’s style.

In addition to wardrobe styling, some stylists may also be responsible for hair and makeup, ensuring the overall look of the characters aligns with the storyline and director’s vision.

 

Film and Television Stylist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Film and Television Stylist should possess a diverse set of skills and qualifications including:

• Extensive knowledge of fashion, costume, and design trends to create distinctive looks that align with the project’s vision and character’s role.
• Exceptional communication skills to effectively collaborate with directors, actors, and other team members while also understanding and realizing their style visions.
• Ability to work under pressure, managing time effectively to meet production deadlines and juggle multiple tasks at once.
• Strong attention to detail to ensure every aspect of the costume is accurate to the period, character, and scene being filmed.
• Practical skills such as sewing, alterations, and garment fitting to modify costumes as needed on set.
• Physical stamina to stand for long hours during fittings and shooting, and capability to lift heavy costume boxes and equipment.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly adapt and find solutions when unexpected issues arise, such as a wardrobe malfunction.
• Experience with makeup application and hair styling to deliver a complete look when necessary.

 

Film and Television Stylist Experience Requirements

Potential Film and Television Stylists typically begin by earning a degree or certification in fashion or a related field, where they gain foundational knowledge and experience in style principles, fashion trends, and costume design.

Experience may be gained through internships, entry-level positions, or assisting established stylists in the film and television industry.

These opportunities provide hands-on experience and increase understanding of production processes, costume logistics, and the ability to work under time constraints.

For those looking to advance in this field, gaining 2 to 3 years of experience is often necessary.

This time is typically spent developing a unique style vision, improving communication skills, and gaining familiarity with the processes of different production types, from television shows to feature films.

Candidates with over 5 years of experience are considered seasoned professionals.

They have likely developed a strong portfolio showcasing their work and may have experience in managing large styling teams, liaising with production designers and directors, and sourcing and managing wardrobe budgets.

These individuals are prepared for head stylist or costume director roles.

 

Film and Television Stylist Education and Training Requirements

Film and Television Stylists typically have a degree or a diploma in fashion design, styling, or a related field.

The coursework in these programs cover various areas like color theory, textiles, fashion history, costume design, and visual merchandising.

Such programs provide them with a solid foundation in the industry’s practical and theoretical aspects.

Having a portfolio showcasing their styling skills and creativity is highly beneficial for those aiming to make a mark in this industry.

Internships or part-time jobs in the fashion or entertainment industry can also provide valuable hands-on experience.

Additional training or certification in makeup artistry, photography, or design software can enhance a stylist’s credibility and expand their skill set.

In this profession, continuous learning and staying updated with the latest fashion trends, design techniques, and industry software is essential.

Although not mandatory, joining professional organizations like the Costume Designers Guild can provide networking opportunities and access to resources and continuing education programs.

Working as an assistant to an experienced stylist can also be beneficial in gaining industry insights and learning the tricks of the trade.

 

Film and Television Stylist Salary Expectations

A Film and Television Stylist typically earns an average salary of $63,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary greatly based on factors such as experience, location, and the size and budget of the production.

Highly experienced stylists working on high-budget productions can earn significantly more.

 

Film and Television Stylist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Film and Television Stylist need?

A Film and Television Stylist needs to have excellent fashion and design skills, as well as a thorough understanding of costume history and various periods’ styles.

They should be skilled in color theory, fabric selection, and tailoring.

Excellent communication skills are also necessary as they will need to collaborate with directors, producers, and actors to create the desired look.

 

Do Film and Television Stylists need a degree?

While a degree isn’t strictly necessary, many Film and Television Stylists have a degree in fashion design or a related field.

They often have additional training in costume design or theatrical styling.

However, hands-on experience and a strong portfolio can sometimes substitute for formal education.

 

What should you look for in a Film and Television Stylist’s resume?

When reviewing a resume, look for experience in film, television, theater, or fashion.

Internships or jobs with fashion houses, designers, or in costume departments can be valuable.

It’s also important that they have a portfolio showcasing their work.

Look for signs of creativity, versatility, and an ability to work under tight deadlines.

 

What qualities make a good Film and Television Stylist?

A good Film and Television Stylist should be creative and imaginative, with a keen eye for detail.

They should be able to interpret a director’s vision and translate it into costumes and styles for the cast.

Good problem-solving skills are also important, as they may need to adjust designs on the fly or work with limited resources.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Film and Television Stylist?

Finding the right Film and Television Stylist can be challenging due to the industry’s competitive nature.

It’s essential to find someone with the right mix of creativity, technical skills, and experience.

Networking in the industry and reviewing stylist portfolios can help find the right candidate.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken you behind the scenes of what it really means to be a film and television stylist.

Intriguing, isn’t it?

It’s not just about selecting clothes.

It’s about shaping on-screen narratives, one costume at a time.

With our comprehensive film and television stylist job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to step into the spotlight.

But why stop at the end of this act?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ticket to creating precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every costume tells a story.

Let’s narrate that story. Together.

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