Enter the World of Fashion Stylist
By Tarandip Kaur
Freelance stylist, Stefanus Wongsodiredjo didn't have it easy when he first ventured into this captivating world of dressing up people. Coming from a public relations background, he dabbled with styling purely out of interest but eventually that bud grew and blossomed.
A stylist's job is so often misunderstood as being easy and requires no skill. In fact, it takes hours, days or even weeks to source for the perfect apparels, the perfect accessories and to come up with the perfect look. It's all boils down to perfection, that and to have a rock solid concept wherewith flows ideas and ideals, a forward-thinking mentality to inspire the masses.
To achieve the most sought after spread, more often than not, a photographer must work with a dedicated stylist with a discerning eye for cohesiveness and creativity. Stefanus aims to create a story behind each shoot, bridging a connection with the viewers. A spread tends to be much more than an evocative promotion of a brand. It is also an experience of a much more physical and materialist plane than on a runway and therefore, the most successful shoot will affect the viewer on a level both visceral and conscious. As Lord Chesterfield aptly puts it, "Style is the dress of thoughts".
Alongside various local photographers, Stefanus has created an arresting portfolio of styles that brings forth visions from Delphic mysteries to Chernobyl nuclear fallout. Unwilling to settle for mediocrity, we get works with images that brings forth to the viewers a new world outside of this. As Stefanus continues his exploration in this highly competitive field, it is also interesting to know that there is never a day when he isn't finely coiffed, proving that being stylish need not be a case where the only hope is a stiff-collared shirt with a well-tailored suit.
Stefanus answers a couple of our questions on being a stylist and the world that surround it. Read on and you will also catch glimpses of his past work.
1. What do you think of Singapore's fashion scene? The scene in Singapore has gone through such tremendous change within the last decade. There is a stronger support with Singapore now boasting three fashion weeks within a year.
The society has slowly and steadily been educated about fashion through the pivotal role of the Internet. The acceptance of bloggers into the realm of official media gave birth to several home-grown fashion bloggers who have gained international recognition.
However, what I still see lacking is that Singapore has yet to attract the attention of international buyers. If this problem is fixed, Singapore might not just be another shopping destination, but a fashion destination.
2. What is it like being a stylist in Singapore?
It was quite hard to start with since I had no connection whatsoever towards any brands so they were quite reluctant when I called to source. But I guess it is very much the same anywhere else in the world.
The most challenging part of being a stylist, not just in Singapore, is not about styling the best look but more about the concept so that your styling will look the best.
3. What influences your style, personally and for shoots?
I am usually influenced by what I read whether it is politics, sports or social issues. Fashion spread is not supposed to just look beautiful but it also needs to communicate. There is a story line or message be told behind the imagery.
4. What's the biggest misconception about being a stylist?
That it is the easiest thing to do in the fashion industry. I had one fashion designer said that to me and I was stunned. I am not trying to make my task seem more important, but a fashion stylist plays quite a prominent role in the industry. In the west, fashion stylist does not only style for a spread but also advises for a collection and arranges a fashion show, down to the store displays, so that everything is in sync with the theme. It is a role I have yet to see here.
5. Any advice for aspiring fashion stylists?
There will always someone who is better than you. What sets you apart is whether you are willing to try the hardest.
Fashion blogger and purveyour of humour, Tarandip Kaur, was the Singapore winner of the AFX Top Bloggers Competition 2011. Her musings can be found here.
Link to the interview can be found here.
