How to Become an Editorial and Session Stylist (Curling Dreams into Reality)
If you’ve ever envisioned yourself creating fashion looks for magazines or styling models for photo shoots and wondered how to become an editorial and session stylist, you’ve come to the right place.
In this guide, we’ll explore the EXACT steps you need to embark on a career as an editorial and session stylist. We’ll talk about:
- The skills you need.
- The education that can help you get there.
- How to land a job in this industry.
So, whether you’re just starting out in the world of fashion or a style-savvy individual looking to elevate your career, stay tuned.
We’re about to unravel the blueprint to becoming an editorial and session stylist.
Let’s get started!
Steps to Become an Editorial and Session Stylist
Step 1: Research the Industry
Before entering into the fashion industry as an Editorial and Session Stylist, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the industry.
This can involve looking into different fashion magazines, studying various fashion trends, understanding the work of famous stylists, and getting a grasp of what the job entails on a day-to-day basis.
You should also familiarize yourself with the key players in the industry such as top designers, photographers, fashion editors, and models.
Understanding their work will give you a comprehensive view of the field you are about to enter.
Additionally, researching different styling techniques, the use of accessories, and various clothing styles can also be beneficial.
It’s vital to keep up with the latest fashion trends as fashion is an ever-evolving field.
Remember, a good Editorial and Session Stylist should not only be able to visualize and create an aesthetic but also understand the practical aspects of the industry, such as budgeting for outfits and accessories, coordinating with different teams, and meeting deadlines.
Getting an idea about this industry’s dynamics, challenges, and opportunities will help you develop a realistic career plan and equip you with the knowledge to navigate this field effectively.
Step 2: Obtain Basic Education
In order to become an Editorial and Session Stylist, you must first complete your basic education.
This often involves obtaining a high school diploma or equivalent.
Following this, it is highly recommended to pursue further education in the field of fashion or cosmetology.
Many stylists opt to earn a degree in Fashion Merchandising, Fashion Design, or a related field to get a foundational understanding of the fashion industry.
Another common route is to attend a cosmetology school, where you can learn about hair styling, makeup application, and other beauty services.
Both options provide valuable knowledge and skills that can be directly applied in an editorial or session stylist career.
During your schooling, focus on courses that will help you understand different fashion styles, trends, and design principles.
Also, consider classes in marketing and business, as they can provide useful insight into the retail aspect of the fashion industry.
Remember, education is not only about earning a degree.
The practical skills, insights, and connections you make during this time are invaluable for your future career as an editorial and session stylist.
Step 3: Pursue a Degree or Course in Cosmetology
To become an editorial and session stylist, it’s essential to have a solid foundation in cosmetology.
Consider enrolling in a cosmetology program, where you will learn about hair styling, makeup application, and skincare.
Some programs also include instruction in nail care, which can be an added bonus as a stylist.
It’s important to remember that the fashion and beauty industry is constantly evolving.
As such, the training you receive should be comprehensive and up-to-date, covering not only classic techniques but also the latest trends.
Alongside practical skills, a cosmetology course will also educate you about various aspects of health and safety, which are crucial when working with clients.
You might also learn about business management and customer service, which can be useful if you decide to freelance or run your own business.
Attending a cosmetology school might also offer opportunities for networking, internships, and job placements.
Many schools have relationships with local salons and beauty businesses, which can give you a foot in the door when you’re ready to start working.
Upon completing a cosmetology program, you’ll need to pass a state licensing exam to officially work as a stylist.
The requirements vary from state to state, so be sure to research what is needed in your area.
Remember, ongoing education is vital in this field.
Even after earning your degree and obtaining your license, consider attending workshops, seminars, and advanced courses to stay up-to-date and expand your skill set.
Step 4: Gain Hands-On Experience through Internships
Gaining real-world experience is critical to becoming an accomplished editorial and session stylist.
Look for internships or assistant positions under established stylists, preferably those who work in the editorial or fashion industry.
This will expose you to the demands of the job and give you an opportunity to apply the skills you’ve learned.
Internships at fashion magazines, designer studios, or fashion events provide a valuable insight into the fashion industry.
You’ll likely start with basic tasks like organizing clothes, accessories, and helping the stylist during photo shoots.
As you gain more experience, you may have the opportunity to assist in fashion shoots and eventually style your models.
Remember, these internships are not only for gaining practical experience but are also an excellent opportunity to make professional connections and learn from industry experts.
It’s also a good idea to keep a portfolio of your work during this time, as this will be useful when seeking job opportunities after your internship.
Besides, internships or assistant roles can often lead to job offers, so it’s crucial to make the most of these opportunities and demonstrate your passion and potential as a stylist.
Be sure to make the most of every opportunity to learn, grow, and build a strong foundation for your career.
Step 5: Obtain a Cosmetology License
To become an Editorial and Session Stylist, it is crucial to obtain a cosmetology license.
This is a legal requirement for practicing and will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in your role.
The requirements to earn a cosmetology license vary by location, but they generally involve a certain amount of training and a written and practical examination.
Training often includes courses in hair styling, makeup application, skin care, nail care, and safety and sanitation procedures.
It can take anywhere from nine months to two years to complete, depending on the program’s intensity.
These programs are typically offered at beauty schools, community colleges, and technical schools.
After completing the necessary training, you will be required to pass a state-licensing exam.
This exam often consists of a written portion and a practical portion where you demonstrate your styling skills.
Remember, maintaining your cosmetology license also requires continuing education.
This is a great way to stay updated on the latest trends, techniques, and products in the industry.
This continued learning can be especially valuable for Editorial and Session Stylists, as it allows you to continually expand your skills and stay competitive in the ever-evolving fashion and beauty industry.
Step 6: Specialize in Fashion and Editorial Styling
As you start to build your career as an editorial and session stylist, it’s crucial to decide on the specific area you wish to excel in.
Fashion and editorial styling is one such field that demands a high level of creativity and understanding of the fashion industry.
Fashion and editorial stylists are the creative brains behind the aesthetic look of a fashion shoot, a magazine, a television show, or even a music video.
They help create the mood and tone of the piece by styling the models or actors, choosing the clothing and accessories, and often coordinating with photographers and makeup artists.
To specialize in this field, you need to stay updated with the latest fashion trends and designer collections.
You can do this by regularly reading fashion magazines, attending fashion shows, and following influential fashion blogs and designers on social media.
It would be beneficial to take professional courses or attend workshops that focus on fashion styling and image consulting.
These programs can equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to make informed decisions about color, silhouette, fabric types, and garment pairing.
Building a strong portfolio showcasing your styling work is also an important step in carving a niche for yourself in the fashion and editorial styling industry.
This portfolio can be a powerful tool to show potential clients and employers your ability to create a distinct style, originality, and a strong visual aesthetic.
Remember, the world of fashion and editorial styling is highly competitive.
So, always strive to hone your skills, be open to feedback, and continually look for ways to innovate and push your creative boundaries.
Step 7: Create a Portfolio Showcasing Your Work
As an editorial and session stylist, your portfolio is your calling card, showing potential clients and employers your skills, creativity, and past work experience.
To begin, you may want to choose several examples of your best work, which could include photo shoots, fashion shows, celebrity styling sessions or editorial styling for magazines.
Digital portfolios are the norm in today’s technology-driven world, so having a website where you can display your work is crucial.
A well-organized, visually appealing website can make a great impression on potential clients or employers.
Moreover, having a digital portfolio allows you to easily share your work on social media platforms and professional networks, opening up more opportunities for exposure and networking.
You should regularly update your portfolio with recent work to show that you are active and up-to-date with the latest trends in the fashion industry.
Each project showcased should include a brief description of the assignment, the client, and your role in the project.
It’s also a good idea to include any press coverage or notable achievements related to the project.
Don’t forget to showcase a wide range of styles and types of work in your portfolio to demonstrate your versatility as a stylist.
This could include a mixture of different types of shoots, including editorial, commercial, celebrity, and runway styling.
Lastly, ensure that your contact information is clearly visible on your portfolio so potential clients or employers can easily get in touch with you.
Step 8: Network with Professionals in the Fashion and Media Industry
Networking is essential in the fashion and media industry.
As an editorial and session stylist, you will be working with a variety of professionals, from photographers to models, and designers to editors.
Therefore, you need to build a robust network of contacts to secure different opportunities.
Attend industry events, fashion shows, and seminars to meet potential collaborators and clients.
Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter are also great places to connect with professionals in the fashion and media industry.
Follow influential individuals and brands, engage with their content, and take the initiative to introduce yourself and your work.
Join professional stylist associations and groups to meet like-minded individuals and gain insights into the latest trends and opportunities in the industry.
These groups often organize events, workshops, and networking sessions, which could provide valuable contacts and relationships.
It’s also beneficial to reach out to professionals who you admire or aspire to work with.
A polite email or message expressing admiration for their work and interest in any potential collaborative opportunities can open many doors.
Remember, networking is not just about taking; it’s about giving too.
Be helpful, offer your skills and knowledge when others need them, and be a positive presence within your network.
This will help you establish a strong reputation and ensure that others are more likely to recommend or think of you for future opportunities.
Step 9: Stay Updated with the Latest Fashion and Beauty Trends
As an Editorial and Session Stylist, it’s crucial to always stay updated on the latest trends in fashion and beauty.
This industry is ever-changing, and what is in style today may not be tomorrow.
Knowing what’s on-trend will not only help you to create fresh and relevant looks for your clients but also keep you competitive in the industry.
You can do this by frequently reading fashion magazines, attending fashion shows, and following popular fashion bloggers and influencers on social media.
Also, consider subscribing to professional beauty and fashion industry newsletters and publications.
Training and workshops are another great way to keep up-to-date.
Many manufacturers and professional organizations offer courses to learn about new products, techniques, and trends.
Remember, your role is not only to be aware of what is fashionable but also to anticipate future trends.
This requires a constant curiosity, a willingness to experiment, and a passion for all things style-related.
Being knowledgeable in the latest trends and being able to adapt them to suit different editorial concepts and clients’ needs will set you apart as a top stylist.
Step 10: Apply for Jobs in Fashion Houses, Magazines, and Media Companies
Once you have built a robust portfolio and gained sufficient experience, you can start applying for jobs at fashion houses, magazines, and media companies.
These entities often require the services of editorial and session stylists for their photoshoots, campaigns, and events.
Start by researching potential employers, understanding their work culture, and the kind of styles they usually promote.
Fashion houses might prefer stylists who understand their brand identity and are able to work within their established aesthetic.
Magazines and media companies, on the other hand, may prefer more versatile stylists who can work with different aesthetics depending on the specific project or campaign.
You can find job openings on fashion job boards, company websites, or through networking events.
When applying, tailor your resume and cover letter to match each job’s specific requirements.
Highlight your most relevant experiences and include a link to your portfolio.
Do not get discouraged if you do not get a job offer immediately.
The fashion industry is highly competitive and it may take some time before you land your dream job.
Keep improving your skills, updating your portfolio, and networking with professionals in the industry.
Persistence and determination are key in this field.
Step 11: Continually Enhance Your Skills and Knowledge
As an editorial and session stylist, your job will require you to stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in the fashion and beauty industry.
You will need to keep evolving and adapting your skills to stay relevant in this dynamic field.
Attending fashion shows, industry events, and seminars can keep you updated with the latest styles and trends.
You can also consider subscribing to trade publications and fashion magazines to keep up with industry news and style inspiration.
Taking part in workshops, online classes or professional development courses can help you refine your skills and learn new techniques.
You can also consider learning about related fields like photography and fashion design, which can enrich your understanding and enable you to provide a holistic styling experience.
Networking with other professionals in the field is also key.
This can lead to collaborations, job opportunities, and can also provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and trends.
Remember, in this field, there is always something new to learn and a different perspective to consider.
Your willingness to learn and adapt will play a significant role in your success as an editorial and session stylist.
Step 12: Consider Freelancing or Entrepreneurship
After gaining considerable experience and expertise in your field, you might want to consider becoming a freelance editorial and session stylist or starting your own styling business.
This step offers more flexibility in terms of the projects you take up and the clients you work with, and it can significantly increase your earning potential.
As a freelancer, you can broaden your network and collaborate with different clients, including magazine editors, photographers, models, celebrities, or production companies.
You can work on diverse projects, such as editorial photo shoots, fashion shows, TV shows, films, or advertisements, allowing you to showcase your versatility and creativity.
If entrepreneurship appeals to you, consider setting up your own styling agency.
This will require business acumen, as you will be responsible for managing all aspects of your business, from marketing to customer service to accounting.
You might also have the opportunity to hire and train other stylists, contributing to the growth of the industry.
Regardless of the path you choose, remember to maintain your professional portfolio, consistently update your skills, and stay informed about the latest trends in the fashion industry.
Networking and maintaining strong relationships with industry professionals can also provide you with opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Editorial and Session Stylist Roles and Responsibilities
Editorial and Session Stylists are experts in creating visuals through clothing and accessories.
They work closely with designers, photographers, and other professionals in fashion and media industry.
Their goal is to create an aesthetic that tells a story, sells a product, or represents a brand.
They have the following roles and responsibilities:
Fashion Styling
- Create innovative and stylish looks for clients.
- Coordinate outfits, accessories, makeup, and hairstyles for photoshoots or events.
- Work with designers to select and fit clothes for models.
Trend Forecasting
- Keep up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and industry news.
- Use trend knowledge to create relevant and stylish outfits.
- Attend fashion shows and trade fairs.
Photoshoot Management
- Assist in planning and organizing photoshoots.
- Work closely with photographers, models, makeup artists, and other team members.
Client Consultation
- Understand clients’ needs, preferences, and body types to provide personalized styling.
- Offer advice on personal style, clothing choices, and overall image.
Editorial Styling
- Style fashion editorials for magazines, blogs, or online platforms.
- Collaborate with creative directors to ensure the styling aligns with the editorial theme.
Wardrobe Management
- Manage and organize clothing and accessory inventories.
- Return borrowed items to designers and stores in a timely manner.
Fashion Buying
- Select and purchase clothes and accessories for shoots or events.
- Negotiate with suppliers and manage budgets.
Brand Representation
- Represent and promote brands during events and media interactions.
- Ensure all styling choices reflect and uphold the brand’s image.
Communication and Networking
- Maintain relationships with designers, retailers, and other industry professionals.
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with team members and clients.
Continuous Learning
- Attend workshops, seminars, and training to stay current with fashion trends and styling techniques.
- Read fashion magazines and follow fashion influencers to stay informed.
What Does an Editorial and Session Stylist Do?
Editorial and Session Stylists typically work in the fashion and entertainment industry, creating hairstyles for models or talent for photo shoots, fashion shows, and film or television productions.
They work closely with fashion designers, photographers, makeup artists, and directors to develop and execute a desired aesthetic for the project.
This can involve designing, cutting, coloring, and styling hair to match the creative direction of the project.
Their job includes staying current on the latest fashion and beauty trends and translating these trends into their work.
They also have the ability to create timeless, classic hairstyles or avant-garde, creative looks depending on the project requirements.
In addition to styling, Editorial and Session Stylists are also responsible for the health and condition of the models’ hair.
They use a variety of products and tools to maintain the health of the hair and to create the desired look.
The job often involves traveling to different locations for shoots or shows and working long, irregular hours.
Despite the demanding schedule, it offers the opportunity to work with creative professionals in exciting, high-pressure environments.
In some cases, they may also have to provide hair styling services for promotional events and media appearances related to the project they are working on.
Essential Editorial and Session Stylist Skills
- Artistic Vision: Editorial and session stylists need a strong creative vision and the ability to bring that vision to life. They need to be able to create looks that are not just beautiful, but also unique and innovative.
- Fashion and Trend Knowledge: A thorough understanding of current fashion trends, as well as historical and cultural influences on fashion, is essential. Stylists need to be able to incorporate these trends into their work in a way that is fresh and relevant.
- Technical Hair and Makeup Skills: Stylists need a strong foundation in hair and makeup techniques. This includes a comprehensive understanding of products, tools, and methods, as well as the ability to apply them in a professional setting.
- Communication: Stylists need to communicate effectively with clients, photographers, models, and other members of the creative team. They also need to be able to listen and understand client needs and desires.
- Problem-solving: Stylists often need to think on their feet and find solutions to unexpected challenges. This can include everything from a last-minute change in a model’s availability to a wardrobe malfunction.
- Organization: Stylists must be able to juggle multiple tasks and responsibilities at once, from planning and preparing for sessions to coordinating with other team members and managing their own schedules.
- Flexibility: In the fast-paced world of fashion and editorial styling, things can change quickly. Stylists need to be adaptable and able to handle changes in plans or direction with grace and professionalism.
- Networking: Building relationships with clients, photographers, designers, and other industry professionals is key to a stylist’s success. Good networking skills can lead to more opportunities and collaborations.
- Attention to Detail: Stylists must have a keen eye for detail. This includes everything from ensuring a model’s hair is styled perfectly to making sure the lighting in a photo shoot is just right.
- Business Acumen: Many stylists work as freelancers or run their own businesses. As such, business skills such as budgeting, negotiating contracts, and marketing are invaluable.
Editorial and Session Stylist Career Path Progression
The Foundation: Assistant Stylist
Your journey starts as an Assistant Stylist.
At this stage, you are keen to learn and are tasked with assisting senior stylists, preparing and organizing styling tools, and observing stylist techniques.
Here are some tips for success in this role:
- Learn Continuously: Stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends and styling techniques.
- Seek Mentorship: Learn from the senior stylists you work with and don’t hesitate to ask questions.
- Detail Orientation: Pay attention to detail as it’s the minor aspects that make or break a style.
The Ascent: Junior Stylist
With experience and increased skills, you’ll transition into the role of a Junior Stylist.
You will start styling on your own, under supervision, and start to develop your own style.
Here’s how to thrive in this stage:
- Develop Your Style: Start to develop your own unique style that sets you apart from others.
- Collaboration: Work closely with photographers, models and designers to create the desired look.
- Networking: Start to build relationships within the industry. It can provide valuable opportunities in future.
Reaching New Heights: Editorial and Session Stylist
The next step is becoming an Editorial and Session Stylist.
At this point, you work with magazines, fashion shows, music videos, and celebrity clients.
To excel as an Editorial and Session Stylist:
- Conceptual Thinking: Ability to understand and execute the desired concept is vital.
- Trend Forecasting: Stay ahead of trends and adapt them into your work.
- Time Management: You will often work on multiple projects, so time management is crucial.
Beyond the Horizon: Lead Stylist or Art Director
As your career progresses, you might transition into Lead Stylist or Art Director roles.
These roles involve creative direction, leadership, and significant influence over the project’s aesthetic.
Here’s what to focus on:
- Creative Leadership: You will guide the creative direction of projects and teams.
- People Management: Develop strong leadership and communication skills to lead your team effectively.
- Innovation: Continue to innovate and stay at the forefront of fashion trends.
Pinnacle of Success: Celebrity Stylist or Fashion Director
At the peak of your career, you may become a Celebrity Stylist or Fashion Director.
In these roles, you’ll be responsible for creating iconic looks for high-profile clients or shaping the overall fashion direction of an organization or publication.
Editorial and Session Stylist Salary
Entry-Level Editorial and Session Stylist
- Median Salary: $20,000 – $40,000 per year
- Entry-level stylists typically have 0-2 years of experience and may have qualifications from accredited beauty or fashion schools. They assist in developing and executing stylistic decisions for editorial shoots or individual sessions.
Mid-Level Editorial and Session Stylist
- Median Salary: $40,000 – $70,000 per year
- Mid-level stylists have 2-5 years of experience and often have more responsibility in designing and implementing fashion and beauty concepts for various shoots. They may also start building their portfolio with local magazines or brands.
Senior Editorial and Session Stylist
- Median Salary: $70,000 – $100,000 per year
- Senior stylists possess 5+ years of experience and are responsible for leading styling sessions, making significant style decisions, and mentoring junior stylists. They usually have a robust portfolio with several high-profile clients.
Lead Editorial and Session Stylist / Artistic Director
- Median Salary: $100,000 – $150,000+ per year
- These roles come with significant experience and often involve leading multiple styling teams, directing photoshoots, and making final artistic decisions. They also play a crucial role in maintaining the aesthetic consistency across various projects.
Principal Stylist / Fashion Director
- Median Salary: $150,000 – $200,000+ per year
- These high-level positions require extensive experience, excellent taste, and a deep understanding of fashion and beauty trends. They often involve setting the stylistic direction for a magazine or a fashion brand and managing relationships with designers and photographers.
Editorial and Session Stylist Work Environment
Editorial and Session Stylists work in diverse environments based on the nature of their projects.
They typically work in photo studios, fashion shows, film sets, and television studios.
Their job often requires them to travel to different locations for on-site styling assignments.
These stylists work closely with photographers, fashion designers, makeup artists, and models.
They often work under high pressure situations to meet tight deadlines and deliver the desired look.
Since fashion and media industries operate round the clock, they may have to work irregular hours including late nights, early mornings and weekends.
Editorial and Session Stylists may also work freelance, balancing multiple clients and projects at the same time.
With an established reputation, they can work with high-profile clients and major fashion magazines, potentially creating their own independent styling agency.
FAQs About Becoming an Editorial and Session Stylist
What is needed to become an Editorial and Session Stylist?
To become an Editorial and Session Stylist, you typically need a mix of formal education and hands-on experience.
Many stylists start by attending a cosmetology school or a fashion-related course, while others may earn a degree in fashion merchandising or design.
Furthermore, developing a strong portfolio showcasing your unique style, creativity, and versatility is crucial.
Key skills include a keen fashion sense, up-to-date knowledge of current fashion and beauty trends, excellent communication skills, and the ability to work under pressure.
How long does it take to become an Editorial and Session Stylist?
The time frame to become an Editorial and Session Stylist varies, depending on your educational path and the amount of hands-on experience you gain.
A typical cosmetology program may last from 1-2 years, while a bachelor’s degree in fashion design or merchandising usually takes four years.
However, breaking into the industry and building a strong portfolio usually requires additional years of experience, such as assisting established stylists, volunteering at fashion shows, or doing internships.
Can I become an Editorial and Session Stylist without a degree?
Yes, it’s possible to become an Editorial and Session Stylist without a formal degree.
Many professionals in the industry have risen through ranks based on their talent, creativity, and networking skills.
Nevertheless, formal education in fashion or cosmetology can provide a strong theoretical foundation and can be beneficial in certain competitive scenarios.
Is being an Editorial and Session Stylist a stressful job?
Being an Editorial and Session Stylist can be stressful due to tight deadlines, high client expectations, and the fast-paced nature of the fashion and beauty industry.
However, many stylists thrive in this environment, finding it exhilarating and rewarding.
The level of stress can often be managed by maintaining good organization, strong communication with your team, and a balanced lifestyle.
What are the prospects for Editorial and Session Stylists in the next decade?
The demand for Editorial and Session Stylists is expected to remain steady.
The ongoing influence of social media, digital advertising, and online shopping continues to drive the need for stylist professionals.
Areas of growth may include e-commerce, digital media, and sustainable and inclusive fashion initiatives.
Conclusion
And there you have it.
Embarking on a journey to become an editorial and session stylist is no small feat, but it’s undoubtedly fulfilling.
Equipped with the right skills, education, and tenacity, you’re on track to creating a significant impact in the fashion industry.
Remember, the path may be challenging, but the opportunities are endless. Your creativity could set the next big trend that revolutionizes how we perceive style and beauty.
So, take that first step. Immerse yourself in learning. Network with industry professionals. And most importantly, never stop styling.
Because the world is waiting for what you can design.
And if you’re looking for personalized guidance on starting or advancing your career in editorial and session styling, check out our AI Career Path Advisor.
This free tool is designed to offer customized advice and resources to help you effectively navigate your career path.
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