How to become a Stylist

Many employers prefer a minimum of an associate's degree for fashion stylist positions. Several colleges offer two-year degree programs in fashion merchandising, which can provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the industry. Classes include the science of textiles, history of fashion, visual merchandising and retail buying. Programs may involve experiential learning, such as speaking with local fashion businesses and attending fashion meetings. You may be required to complete internships and/or assemble portfolios before graduation.

Create a portfolio of work. Many employers require applicants to submit portfolios that display a variety of previous fashion styling work. If degree programs do not require you to create a portfolio, making one is still a good idea. Fashion projects completed as part of course requirements can contribute to this professional collection of work. Uploading the portfolio online may provide opportunities to connect with possible employers quicker.

Fashion stylist positions often require at least four to five years of experience, though some require upwards of eight to ten years of work in the fashion industry. Entry-level fashion retail jobs can help you gain perspective on how various elements come together to create unique, ready-to-wear looks. Stylist jobs often require skills in multiple departments, so experience in areas like children's, men's, and intimates are good preparation. Entry-level jobs can also help you network and make contacts in the fashion industry.

Join a fashion organization to stay current with industry trends. You need to ensure they are up-to-date on ever-changing fashion looks. Joining a professional organization, like the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI) or the International Fashion Stylists Association (IFSA), can connect you with resources, including the latest fashion news, professional development training opportunities and fashion industry events. The IFSA coordinates a major annual conference that includes lectures and workshops directed by fashion stylist leaders.

Gaining certification demonstrates expertise and credibility in the fashion industry, which can expand career opportunities. The AICI offers certification at two levels: First Level Certification (FLC) and Certified Image Professional (CIP). Stylists must pass an exam covering technical aspects of apparel image and business topics, as well as provide a portfolio for review to earn the FLC credential. One year later, a stylist can earn the CIP by passing a more intensive portfolio review, in addition to demonstrating completion of continuing education and involvement in professional activities.

While there are no fashion stylist associate degree programs you can complete a fashion design associate’s degree program. They are 60-70 semester credit hour programs and can be completed either online or on campus. The admission requirements are the same as the certificate programs and all you will need is a high school diploma or a GED.

Bachelor’s degree programs in visual merchandising and fashion design teach students how to aesthetically communicate fashion trends to customers. Merchandising and fashion design programs teach students to produce visual images that make an impact in order to communicate and sell products such as jewelry and clothes to customers. Goals of merchandising professionals include enticing customers to enter a particular store, reinforcing branding, and selling fashions by encouraging mental associations between products and certain lifestyle choices.

Certificate programs in fashion styling, merchandising and retail cover the basics of how to select and alter clothes for clients, as well as the evolution of fashion trends in history. Certificate programs can be taken separately or within the context of a degree program.