How it works
Before a shoot the stylist gathers clothes from brands, showrooms or their own archive according to the mood board. On set they dress the model, pin, adjust and steam, and make sure the garment looks flawless in frame.
In magazines the stylist is often a co-author of the story with the photographer. For a show they create the looks with the designer and decide which model wears what.
For the model a stylist's work means many changes and standing still. Let them work, do not alter the clothes yourself, and say if something pinches or stops you moving.
In practice
Before a magazine shoot the stylist gathers thirty garments from five brands. On set she dresses the model, pins the jacket at the back so the front looks perfect and fixes the collar before every frame. The model keeps her arms where the pins will not show.
What to watch for
- Wear seamless nude underwear.
- Handle the clothes carefully: they are often on loan.
- Say if a garment stops you from posing.
Related terms
Frequently asked
01How does a stylist differ from a make-up artist?
The stylist handles clothes and accessories, the make-up artist the make-up, sometimes the hair too.
02Can a model choose what to wear?
Usually not: that is the stylist's and the client's call. But if a garment is a problem for a real reason, say so.