Dear Stylist Elixir Community,
First, thank you so much for the feedback on the Stylist Elixir Guidebook – I’m over the moon reading your comments. Knowing it’s helping so many of you navigate this whirlwind industry makes every late-night edit completely worth it. And if you haven’t grabbed your copy yet, it’s still available with instant access – packed with insights I wish I’d had when I was starting.
But today, I wanted to dive into a reality of styling that often gets overlooked. In an industry where social media paints a picture of constant glamour, it’s easy to assume that once you’ve “made it,” you’re set. The truth? Styling is anything but a career where you can rest on your laurels. Even the most established stylists have to keep hustling, proving their worth, and staying relevant. This isn’t for the faint-hearted, but if you thrive on energy, creativity, and a bit of unpredictability, this career could be a perfect fit.
The Constant Evolution of a Stylist’s Career
One of the biggest surprises I’ve experienced in styling is how much your career can shift over time. It’s not a straight path; it’s more like a winding road where you’re continuously adjusting, learning, and growing. I often say that styling is a career in constant evolution, and that’s what keeps it exciting.
As a new stylist, you’re likely focused on securing those first few jobs and building a name for yourself. Later, you’re managing multiple projects and trying to make each one uniquely yours. And eventually, you might reach a place where you’re considered an “established” stylist – but even then, you’re still adapting and hustling. The fashion world never stops, and neither do we.
Each stage has its own challenges, and each one requires a different skill set. When I was just starting, my focus was on learning the ropes and absorbing everything I could from experienced stylists. Now, years in, I’m still learning, but it’s more about refining my signature style, managing client relationships, and finding ways to stay fresh and innovative in an industry that’s always evolving.
The Value of Mentorship
One of the most impactful aspects of my career has been having mentors who’ve guided me through the industry’s twists and turns. Mentorship isn’t just about learning skills – it’s about gaining perspective, building resilience, and developing the confidence to take risks. Having someone who’s been through it all to share insights, offer advice, and even give you a nudge when you’re hesitating can make an enormous difference.
In the world of fashion styling, a mentor offers a view into the reality of the industry that’s hard to come by on your own. From navigating tricky client relationships to understanding how to position yourself in a competitive market, the guidance of someone who’s been there helps you avoid common pitfalls and adapt to the industry’s fast pace.
But mentorship is also about having someone who believes in you, especially when you’re questioning yourself. I can’t tell you how valuable it’s been to have a mentor remind me of my strengths when self-doubt creeps in or to give me that little bit of encouragement to push my boundaries creatively.
So, if you’re feeling a little isolated or unsure, know that mentorship can be a game-changer. It provides a strong foundation and the encouragement you need to keep moving forward with confidence.
Tactics for Booking Work (Even in Slow Seasons)
So, what can you do when things get quiet? Here are a few tactics I’ve used over the years to keep work coming, no matter the season.
This is where we introduce the paywall. For our paid subscribers, an exclusive section follows, diving into Tactics for Booking Work (Even in Slow Seasons)—practical insights that will help you stay proactive and secure work no matter the industry climate. If you’re not yet a paid subscriber, now’s the perfect time to unlock these strategies and take your career to the next level.