Last updated : Thursday, February 4, 2010

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Facebook Fashionista: The Life of a Star Stylist

I recently received the following e-mail from an iMag reader:

Dear Noelle, 

Celebrity stylist, Rachel Zoe seems to live the most glamorous life. How can I get HER job?

The truth is, fashionistas no job is as glamorous as it seems. And as for being a celebrity stylist,  while Rachel Zoe has stepped in front of the camera, most stylists work very hard behind the scenes. If this is something you're dying to do, you have a lot of hard work ahead of you. Here are some tips to get started.

1- Know the biz.
A wardrobe stylist puts together outfits for the characters in movies and TV shows while a fashions stylist works with celebrities and fashion mags. 

2- Know what you're in for.
It takes more than just shopping for a red carpet style to get a gig. Many celebrity stylists are responsible for helping create and maintain a star's image. A fashion flaw can ruin your reputation as quick as the blink of an eye.

3- Create your own image.
What makes Rachel Zoe such a star is that she has a fashionable point of view. Like a designer, you'll need to create an image. Are you funky? Classic? Boho chic? Rachel was known for wearing caftans, over-sized sunglasses, and of course being super skinny. Before you knew it, her clients (Nicole Richie and Lindsay Lohan for example) were following suit.

4- Learn how to put an outfit together.
It's not enough to pick a pretty dress. You need to know how to mix and match, measure and accessorize. Certainly a fashionable education is helpful (think FIT and Parsons) as well as an internship at a magazine or with a designer.

5- Take pictures.
A portfolio is imperative to getting clients. As your career progresses, take tons of pictures of the ensembles you've put together.

6- Make contacts.
Exchange information with everyone you meet. Go to fashion week, trade shows, store openings, etc. Getting your name out there is key!

7- Get representation.
Hiring an agent is very important because it will allow you access to celebrities that would be difficult to contact yourself. An agent will put your name and work in front of them leading to celebrity clients, a red carpet presence, and maybe even a reality show!

 

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