How to Become an Online Personal Stylist (& How Much Can You Make Per Year)
Want to become an online personal stylist and turn your love for fashion into a full-time business that you can do from home? Read on to learn the steps.
What does a personal stylist do exactly?
An online personal stylist provides fashion and style advice to clients through virtual platforms such as websites, apps, or video consultations. They offer personalized guidance on clothing, accessories, and overall fashion choices based on individual preferences, body type, and lifestyle.
Services can include:
- Wardrobe Evaluation: Online personal stylists help clients assess their current wardrobe, identifying pieces to keep, donate, or update.
- Style Recommendations: They suggest clothing and accessories that align with the client’s style goals, whether it’s a professional look, casual wear, or special occasions.
- Outfit Coordination: Online stylists create outfits by mixing and matching items from the client’s wardrobe or recommending new pieces for specific occasions.
- Shopping Guidance: They provide advice on where and what to shop for, taking into account budget constraints and personal style.
- Virtual Shopping: Some online stylists offer the option to shop on behalf of clients and curate a selection of clothing items for them to purchase.
- Fashion Tips: They share fashion tips, trends, and advice to help clients stay current and feel confident in their style choices.
Online personal stylists cater to a wide range of clients, including those looking to improve their everyday style, prepare for special events, or develop a signature look. Their goal is to make fashion accessible and enjoyable while helping clients look and feel their best.
How much can an online personal stylist make per year?
The income of an online personal stylist can vary widely depending on several factors, including their experience, reputation, client base, and marketing efforts. Here are some general guidelines on potential earnings:
Entry-Level
When starting out, online personal stylists may earn a modest income, often in the range of $20,000 to $40,000 per year. At this stage, they are building their portfolio and client base.
Experienced Stylists
As an online personal stylist gains experience and builds a strong client following, they can significantly increase their income. Experienced stylists can earn anywhere from $40,000 to $100,000 or more per year.
Established and Well-Known Stylists
The fashion stylists who are highly regarded in the industry, have a large and loyal client base, and possibly offer additional services like courses or books can earn well into the six figures annually. Some may even earn several hundred thousand dollars per year or more.
Facts that play a role in how much you can earn
Earnings can also be influenced by the geographic location of the stylist. Those in major fashion centers like New York City or Los Angeles may have higher earning potential due to a larger client base and higher fees.
You can diversify your income streams by offering online courses, selling fashion-related products, or collaborating with brands to increase your overall earnings.
Effective marketing and branding efforts can significantly impact income. Stylists who can effectively market themselves through social media, blogs, or partnerships may attract more clients and command higher fees.
It’s important to note that these figures are general estimates, and individual earnings can vary widely. Building a successful career as an online personal stylist often requires dedication, ongoing learning, and the ability to adapt to changing fashion trends and client needs.
Additionally, as a blogger and course creator with an audience of aspiring entrepreneurs and bloggers, you may have opportunities to share your insights on starting and growing a personal styling business, which can be valuable to your audience.
How to Become an Online Personal Stylist
Here are the steps to help you become an online personal stylist:
Educate Yourself in Fashion and Styling
Start by building a solid foundation in fashion and styling. You can pursue formal education in fashion design, merchandising, or take online courses in fashion styling.
Stay updated with current fashion trends, styles, and industry news through magazines, blogs, and social media.
Develop Your Personal Style
Establish your own unique sense of style. This will not only set you apart but also help potential clients understand your aesthetic. Your personal style becomes part of your brand as a stylist.
Build a Strong Portfolio
Assemble a portfolio showcasing your styling work. This can include photos of outfits you’ve styled, before-and-after transformations, and descriptions of your styling process.
If you’re just starting, consider doing mock styling sessions with friends or offering your services for free or at a reduced rate in exchange for portfolio-building opportunities.
You might also consider obtaining certification in fashion styling. While not always necessary, it can enhance your credibility and marketability.
Attend workshops, seminars, or courses offered by established stylists or fashion institutions to hone your skills.
Also read: 100 Creative Personal Stylist Business Names You’ll Love
Create Your Online Presence
Build a professional website that showcases your portfolio, services, pricing, and contact information. Make sure your website is visually appealing and user-friendly.
Create profiles on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and LinkedIn to share your work and connect with potential clients.
Set Your Pricing and Services
Decide how to price the different services you’ll offer, such as virtual styling sessions, wardrobe assessments, or personal shopping.
Be transparent about your pricing on your website.
Market Your Services
Develop a marketing strategy to attract clients. Use social media, email marketing, and content creation to establish yourself as an expert in your niche.
Consider running targeted ads on social media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Offer Virtual Styling Services
Offer virtual styling sessions where you connect with clients via video calls. During these sessions, you can assess their style preferences, give fashion advice, and create outfits tailored to their needs.
Use styling software or tools to create lookbooks and style boards for clients.
Client Consultations and Communication
Develop strong communication skills to understand your clients’ needs, preferences, and goals.
Conduct thorough initial consultations to gather information about their lifestyle, body type, and style preferences.
Online Tools and Resources
Utilize online tools and fashion apps to assist in virtual styling and shopping recommendations.
Stay organized with scheduling and client management software.
Network and Collaborate
Network with photographers, makeup artists, and other professionals in the fashion industry to potentially collaborate on projects or refer clients to each other.
Also read: How to Become a Virtual Assistant with No Experience
Client Feedback and Testimonials
Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews and testimonials on your website and social media profiles to build trust and credibility.
Becoming a successful online personal stylist takes time and dedication. Building a strong online presence, continually improving your skills, and providing excellent service to your clients are key to your success in this field.
