What You Need To Know Before Hiring A Stylist

Happy 2017, everyone!

I've spoken to some of you guys online, and quite a few have mentioned wanting to hire a stylist in the new year. I thought I would take some of the guess work out of what to expect, as well as what information to supply to your stylist to make the experience an enjoyable one for everyone involved!

What exactly does a stylist do?

I get asked this question on a regular basis. And the answer is "everything!" OK, well, maybe not everything, but pretty close. It is our job to meet with you, and collaborate on a look. This requires meetings, fittings, shopping, pulling pieces, and then returning them...not to mention us being on hand if you've hired us for a video or photo shoot! We are basically fashion real estate agents. A lot of us have access to boutiques, designers, jewelers, and dealers that you would never even know about! On average, for one photo shoot, I spend around 50 hours on a client. It's my job to find the most unusual clothing and accessories that will not only flatter, but will photograph or appear well on film, be under the wardrobe budget, and will make everyone happy! For a video or photo shoot, I'm there as another set of eyeballs to make sure that everything is laying properly (no nip slips), and that you look like the best version of yourself! And then, after all is said and done, I return the clothes back to their rightful homes. Usually, I end up getting it right, though,and my clients buy the clothes off of me!

So, what does my stylist need to know before I hire them?

What are you hiring a stylist for?

I've had people hire me for every reason under the sun. Be it a concert, or photo or video shoot for an artist (which is what i specialize in) or every day life, we need to know the reason you're bringing us on board. This will help to determine what we can and can not pull to bring to you. For instance, reflective pieces of clothing are eye-catching in real life, but will film a bit off-depending on the lights and angles. Certain fabrics and patterns can make camera lenses go crazy! It's our job to know what will and will not work. So, fill us in as much as possible, so we can make you look your absolute best.

What is the concept or look we are wanting to achieve?

If you're wanting to look like a glamazon warrior queen, it's in your interest to tell your stylist up front. That way, they don't show up with something a folk singer would wear. If you aren't entirely sure what you're going for, communicate with your stylist about your style icons, and whose look you like. They should be able to show you ways you can create an inspired look without looking like a ripoff, or like you are wearing a costume.

What are your actual measurements? Not just your "size"

This one is so important, you guys! I have had so many clients just give me "sizes" and think that was good enough. Vanity sizing is a huge problem in women's clothing right now. What one designer's size 12 may look like, it will be another's size 6! Stylists need your actual number measurements to make sure the garments they are pulling for you will fit and be the most flattering! Don't be shy to give your real measurements. Everyone at any size looks so much better when their clothes actually fit! We are the one person you need to be one hundred percent honest with! Trust me, if your stylist is judging you based on the number on the tag inside your pants, you need to move on. Boy, bye!

What is your budget?

Most stylists can work with a variety of budgets. That is why I offer many different packages and plans to make sure that you get the best service possible, and I also get to feed my two dogs. You need to be transparent with your stylist about the budget you have to work with. Remember, styling is a service, much like a hairstylist or nail technician. You pay them to do what you can't do at home. My fee covers everything discussed in point one, but not everyone is the same. Most stylists can stretch your budget and still manage to make you look like a million bucks!

Now, go forth. Hire your stylist, and prepare to slay it in 2017!