Stylists don’t just dress celebrities. They have the power to build visions, give voice to brands, and interpret cultural signals. Now more than ever, stylists are the unseen directors behind the imagery we see on runways, in magazines, and across social media. Far from simply choosing looks, they are visual storytellers, cultural observers, and content creators. Studying Fashion Styling opens the door to some of the most dynamic and creative roles in today’s fashion industry. 

The Name Everyone Knows: Law Roach 

When we talk about fashion stylists today, one name stands out above the rest: Law Roach. In 2022, he became the first stylist to receive an award at the prestigious CFDA Fashion Awards. He describes himself as an “image architect”, and a quick look at the stars he has styled—including Zendaya, Céline Dion, Ariana Grande, Hunter Schafer and Bella Hadid — makes it clear why that is. His styling is bold, unexpected, and unforgettable. It’s no wonder that director Pedro Almodóvar is reportedly considering making a film about Roach’s career and the muses who have inspired him. 

It’s easy to see why so many aspiring stylists look up to him as a role model. However, becoming the next Law Roach is just one possible path in a field full of exciting, creative opportunities. 

Studying Styling Today: More Than Dressing, It’s Storytelling 

Styling celebrities may seem glamorous, but the role of a stylist goes far beyond the red carpet. Stylists collaborate with creative teams, dive into subcultures to reveal artistic narratives, interpret the times, develop concepts, and experiment with visual languages to create something original that tells a story. In the hands of a stylist, fabric becomes narrative. 

Fashion Styling today encompasses art direction, content creation, fashion journalism, trend forecasting, and much more. 

As Samira Nasr, Editor-in-Chief of Harper’s Bazaar, explains: “A stylist reinterprets what a brand’s creative director puts on the runway and transforms it into style. They select images, tell stories, and shape new identities through fashion.” Nasr began her career as a freelance stylist for InStyle and Elle US and has since created celebrated campaigns for brands such as Laura Mercier, Tiffany & Co, Tory Burch, Estée Lauder, L’Oréal and Clarins. 

From Magazines to Museums: A Thousand Career Paths for Tomorrow’s Stylists 

In the editorial offices of the world’s leading fashion publications, stylists are among the most influential figures. They craft fashion editorials, shape visual dreams, and set trends. But their work extends far beyond lookbooks and magazine covers. Stylists may become consultants—either freelance or in-house—for global brands looking to define or redefine their visual identity. 

They may also curate exhibitions, become fashion journalists, specialise in visual merchandising, or work as brand strategists. Some even transition into roles such as make-up artists. Styling celebrities is just the tip of the iceberg. A modern stylist is a cultural translator—someone who can see the spirit of the eras reflected in clothing and images. 

What Kind of Training Does It Take? 

Succeeding in the field of styling requires a diverse and constantly updated education. Essential skills for aspiring stylists include knowledge of fashion history, communication, trend analysis, graphic design, and applications of artificial intelligence. Additionally, proficiency in tools such as InDesign and Photoshop, alongside photography and multimedia, enables future stylists to enter the industry with a competitive and creative edge. 

Studying Fashion Styling at Istituto Marangoni Milano 

At Istituto Marangoni Milano, students are trained to become true cultural interpreters through styling. With a solid foundation in fashion theory, art direction and visual communication, coupled with expertise in emerging media such as fashion film, animation, and generative AI, graduates are well prepared to lead the next generation of visual storytellers in fashion. 

The Milan School offers a wide range of programmes in Fashion Styling: 

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Styling & Creative Direction
  A full three-year undergraduate course for those aspiring to become professionals in image-making, combining research, theory and practical skills. 
• Master’s Degree in Fashion Styling, Creative Direction & Digital Content 
  Designed for highly motivated individuals, this programme provides a solid foundation and a professional portfolio for careers in styling, fashion media and creative direction. 
• Intensive Course in Fashion Styling & Multimedia
  A course centred on visual communication, exploring the many facets of fashion styling through images and multimedia designed to persuade, inspire, and evoke emotional response. 
• Semester Course in Fashion Styling & Creative Direction 
  A short yet comprehensive course offering an introduction to styling and visual direction with hands-on practice. 
• Short Course in Fashion Image & Styling
  An intensive course in image analysis and personal style development, culminating in the creation of a total look and a final professional photo shoot. 
• Short Course for Teenagers – Style Yourself: A Fashion Experience
  A dedicated course for young creatives aged 16–17, offering an introduction to the world of Fashion Styling and personal image-making. 

Career Paths in Fashion Styling 

Fashion Stylist 

Art Director 

Fashion Journalist 

Visual Merchandiser 

Content Creator 

Image Consultant 

Celebrity Stylist 

Fashion Writer 

Trend Forecaster