ABSTRACT
Some of the most prominent names in fashion journalism are stylists – from Grace Coddington to Edward Enninful – though what a stylist’s job involves is not always so visible. This chapter explore what great styling can do beyond documenting the latest trends, including capturing the zeitgeist and playing with social and cultural norms. It also goes into the practicalities of what a stylist does, from coming up with ideas for fashion stories, planning them, and calling in clothes to ensuring all goes well on the day of the shoot itself.
It looks at the differences between editorial and commercial styling – many stylists will do a mix of both – explores how Instagram has affected the industry, and asks how those looking at getting into styling can develop their visual eye and learn practical skills. Finally, it looks at some of the issues surrounding fashion imagery, including diversity on the runway and in advertising.
