Want To Be A Stylist?

As individuals who have worked in the Fashion Industry for the past 10 years as Stylists, Buyers, Editors we constantly have people asking us how to break into the industry.  One question constantly asked of us is how to become a stylist.  So here is our advice;

1.  Educate Yourself - If you haven't already done so take a styling course Ryerson offers a really great program Fashion Coordination and Styling.  If you are unable to take the full certificate take the Fashion Styling Course here's the link http://ceonline.ryerson.ca/ce_20092010/calendar/default.aspsection=program&sub=cert&cert=FASHCO01&mode=program.  It will teach you how to do a creative and build your book.  A book is key, this will help you show what you are capable of.  When you are just breaking into the industry no one will be expecting you to be a great stylist right off the bat, but it will display your personal style. 

2.  Go To Open Calls - Get in contact with some agencies in your area, the ones listed below are in Toronto and are some of the best.  Most of them have open-call's at certain times of the day where you can walk in with your book and they will review it and take your contact information and get in touch with you once they have a stylist that requires an assistant.  In some cases they may keep your book and call you once they have had a chance to look at it so be prepared to leave it if necessary ensuring your name and contact info is in it so it doesn't get lost.  Also be prepared for an interview if they like your work they will want to ask you a few questions to feel you out.  If you don't hear from them right away be persistant and follow up.

Plutino Group

1444 Dupont Street Unit 37D,

Toronto, On Canada

M6P 4H3

Tel: 416-504-1605

http://www.plutinogroup.com/home

Page One Management

476 Euclid Avenue, Suite 3

Toronto, ON

M6G 2S9

Tel: 647-348-7557

info@pageonemanagement.ca

http://www.pageonemanagement.ca/ 

Judy Inc.

21 Isabella Street

Toronto, ON

M4Y 1M7

Tel: 416-962-5839

http://www.judyinc.com/

3. Update Your Resume - Like any interview ensure to have an updated resume this is also key and you will be asked to provide one, so when you go in make sure you have one prepared and ready to hand to an agent.

4. Be Available - To be a great assistant you will need to have access to a car, definately a cell phone and an added bonus know your way around the city.  As an assistant you could be required to pick up samples, drop off samples, pick up coffee etc.  Its not pertinent to have a car but it is a definate added bonus.

If you have any other questions or would like to know how to break into other fashion related careers drop us a line.  Hope this helps and good luck, maybe  you will be the next Zeina Esmail, Jessa Bisset or Rachel Zoe!