In a world where our lives are increasingly intertwined with the digital realm, the fashion industry has not been left behind. The rise of online personal styling has been revolutionary, offering individuals the opportunity to express their unique style from the comfort of their homes. In this blog post, we'll explore the flourishing field of online personal styling, uncovering the growth and development it has experienced, and provide you with a roadmap on how to start a career as an online personal stylist.
What is an Online Personal Stylist?
An online personal stylist offers personal styling services to clients virtually using video chat services such as Zoom or Google Meet rather than meeting their clients in person. They are often referred to as a virtual stylist or a virtual personal stylist and they are trained in all aspects of personal styling such as body shape analysis and color analysis.
An online personal stylist or virtual stylist offers many of the same services as in-person stylists such as; style consultations and body shape analysis, seasonal color analysis, personal shopping, creating capsule wardrobes and lookbooks, and special event styling. Most online personal stylists run their own personal styling businesses although there are also opportunities to work with online styling subscription companies such as Stitch Fix and Lookiero.
The Rise of Online Personal Styling:
The fashion landscape has undergone a significant transformation, with online personal styling emerging as a dynamic and accessible avenue for fashion enthusiasts. According to recent statistics, the online personal styling market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.1% from 2021 to 2026. This growth is fueled by the increasing preference for online shopping, as well as the desire for personalized fashion guidance.
People are spending more time online than ever before, with the average daily internet usage reaching new heights. The global pandemic has accelerated this trend, making online interactions a central part of our daily lives. As a result, the demand for virtual services, including online personal styling, has seen a remarkable uptick.
Key Steps to Become an Online Personal Stylist:
Education and Training: The first step to becoming an online personal stylist is to learn the foundational skills that are needed for all personal stylists. You don't need a degree to be a stylist but you do need training, so find an online personal styling course or find a styling course at a fashion school and make sure you have the personal styling skills that you need.
Adapt Your Skills For Online: Once you've learned how to be a personal stylist, you'll then need to learn how to conduct your consultations online. Virtual styling can be more challenging than working with clients in person so you must learn how your services will be conducted online. Practice your consultations online with friends or family members or you could take a virtual styling course that will show exactly how to style your clients virtually.
Invest in Professional Tools: Utilize virtual styling tools and apps that can enhance your services. Virtual color drapes are essential for the accuracy of online color analysis so you will need to invest in these to offer the best service for your virtual clients. There are also client management systems such as Hue and Stripe that allow you to onboard and manage your clients with virtual closets and shoppable lookbooks.
Build a Strong Online Presence: Establish yourself on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok, showcasing your unique style and fashion sense. Create a professional website or blog to serve as a portfolio, demonstrating your expertise and attracting potential clients.
Networking: Connect with fellow stylists, fashion influencers, and potential clients through social media groups, forums, and networking events. Building a robust network can open doors to collaborations and opportunities in the online styling world.
Offer Virtual Consultations: Now that you have the training and the tools you need, it's time to use the power of technology and start offering your online personal styling services.
Becoming an online personal stylist is not just a career choice; it's a journey into the future of fashion. The statistics speak for themselves, showcasing the incredible growth and potential within this industry. As people continue to spend more time online, the demand for virtual styling services is poised to soar. By following these key steps and embracing the digital era, you can carve out a successful career as an online personal stylist, helping clients express their individuality in the world of virtual fashion. So, are you ready to dive into the exciting world of online personal styling?
Happy (Online) Styling!
Louisa 💕