Things I've learnt about styling.

Faye Sampson, myself and Eve @ Oxygen behind the scenes on a shoot (photograph by Hannah).

Things I've learnt about styling //


1 // Always bring more than what is required. No matter how much planning goes into the wardrobe, it will never fall magically into place on the day, or match the lovely iPhone snapshots you took of yourself modelling the outfits. Even if this means bringing more outfits than planned, make sure there is enough material to improvise and allow strokes of inspiration at the shoot.

2 // Don't stand around like a plum whilst the photographer is in action - the appearance of the model is the stylist's responsibility, and it's essential to make sure the garments are tucked in the right places, free of wrinkles and looking good in general. Contribution from the entire team is vital, and if the stylist's level of participation is the same as a dresser's, it won't send out passionate vibes. There probably won't be much further contact for future shoots; others generally don't like working with passive people.

3 // Pack the styling kit well in advance of the shoot - there is nothing worse than wondering where to buy  masking tape or panty liners at 10am on a Sunday morning. Make sure everything is ready days beforehand, and always have a physical list of things to include, as it is very easy to forget obvious things such as lint rollers or tit tape. Whilst on the shoot, if anything that could've come in handy springs to mind, write it down immediately and make a note to buy it when topping up the kit. If it's not written down, it will be forgotten by the next trip to Poundland/Rymans/Morplan.

4 // Write down every amount spent on the wardrobe, keep receipts all together in a safe place, and write down everything received in refunds. Even if refunds are done straight after, it can never be assumed that all of the money has been returned, as there will always be one inadequate sales assistant who will refund the current selling price rather than the paid price, or make a blunder with student discounts.

5 // In regards to items that need to be returned: look after them. Do not assume that a polished floor will leave the soles of those £100+ shoes unmarked. Never use shoes outdoors without twenty layers of electric tape on the soles as well as a layer of cardboard (don't stick anything over the sticker, only around it). In terms of clothing, apply rules of basic hygiene and remember that these items (if successfully returned) will be purchased and worn by others, and this must be respected. Do not let any sweat or make-up reach the clothing: this will require constant monitoring of the clothes whilst on the model, so as above, never assume that the job is over once the model has been dressed.

6 // Believe in the importance of the stylist's contribution to a successful shoot. Don't assume that the job of a stylist is easy or pointless, because it needs to be done by someone, and done very well. Make a good impression, and people will be calling up. Most importantly, have fun whilst collaborating with others and you'll not only make contacts, but friends. Cherish them, because you'll need them with you once you're in the big bad fashion industry.