When I applied for the Professional Photo, Film, TV & Personal Stylist’s Course, I had limited knowledge of the styling industry, but I had a strong passion to learn all about it. I felt this course would be perfect in helping me learn the skills I would need to become a professional stylist.
As a high school student I was slightly apprehensive about the cost of the course, but now, having completing it, I can honestly say that no price can pay for my feelings of happiness and the amount of information I have learnt throughout my journey with the College.
I found the course was structured in a way that made it easy for me to read through the information. The tutorials were balanced with a range images, tips and interviews from experienced stylists and not overwhelming amounts of text. The assignments were detailed with clear objectives, however the guidelines were open to interpretation, allowing students to achieve these aims creatively with the use of online blogs, reports and videos. If I was lost for inspiration, I always had the option of contacting the College to request examples that provided themes and ideas.
Throughout the course I was constantly supported by my lovely tutor who provided one-on-one, detailed feedback of my work and always provided tips on how to go further with my next assignment.
For many of my assignments, I relied on the participation of my friends and family. I would practice styling them and they thoroughly enjoyed taking part. It provided a chance to practice one-on-one sessions, but it also made them feel special, as they were given a makeover suited to them personally. I also made up colour consultation booklets and all of my friends and family have commented on how useful these are as it allows them to flick through and choose colours to wear for upcoming events, knowing it would complement their skin tone, hair colour and eye colour.
During the course I was fortunate to take part in a styling project with a professional textile designer, Karen Bowler. We worked together for three months creating a lace dress and then I styled the dress for a photo shoot.
Having completed this course, and given my age, I plan to volunteer with more professionals and apply my skills before I take on my own clients. I would like to work my way up to working with the runway or celebrity clients, styling them for spectacular events or dressing them for their daily life.
I would definitely recommend this course to anyone looking to develop the skills to become a professional stylist and gain freelance or full-time work within the industry. You learn so much more than just about being a fashion stylist. The course looks at male styling, film, costume and TV industry, food styling, finding your own work, creating your own portfolio to showcase to clients and much more.
It’s a great opportunity especially for those living in an area where there are limited or no styling courses available as you aren’t required to travel anywhere. You simply learn the course material and apply it to clients in your local area which provides the beginning to build your own portfolio.
I would like to take this chance to thank everyone at the British College of Professional Styling, for helping me through this wonderful experience and a massive thanks to my tutor, Katharine, for her time and effort.
