Fashion consulting is a professional service that is offered to individuals who need help buying, coordinating, and accessorizing outfits. Trained consultants can make either subtle or drastic changes to their clients' wardrobes, makeup, and hair styles in order to improve their appearances and keep them up-to-date on the latest fashion trends. A professional may work for a single client, such as a celebrity, politician, or business person, or offer services to many people to help them make better fashion choices. Most experts work for fashion consulting companies, clothing manufacturers, movie studios, and television broadcasting companies, though some consultants choose to operate their own businesses.
A person might seek a fashion consultant when he or she simply does not have the time to choose and purchase new outfits. These consultants frequently go shopping for their clients, picking out clothing and accessories that they believe will look the best for certain occasions. A professional may add options to a person's existing wardrobe or completely replace the contents of his or her closet. The consultant considers the style a client hopes to achieve, the settings in which outfits will be worn, and the costs of different items when making significant wardrobe changes.
Fashion consulting involves bringing together a stylish outfit with the appropriate accessories, makeup, and hair. Many fashion consultants are cosmetics experts, able to determine the best colors, shades, and amounts of makeup products to use on their clients. Consultants often explain to hair stylists the basic looks they want for their clients, and many professionals actually cut and style hair themselves.
Successful fashion consulting can result in many benefits for clients. Besides improving their looks, consultants can improve clients' self-esteem by making them feel more comfortable in public settings. An individual who knows he or she looks good is usually less tense and self-conscious in social situations. In addition, professionals often become close friends with their best clients over time.
An individual who wants to get started in the fashion consulting field can pursue a two- or four-year degree program at an accredited institution. Many students pursue business or fashion merchandising degrees, and some schools offer programs specifically geared at fashion consulting. While enrolled in a program, a prospective consultant learns about the history of fashion, the prominence of certain styles, and the best methods of putting together a wardrobe. Upon graduation, most new consultants work as apprentices or assistants to professionals in the field to gain firsthand knowledge of how to obtain, please, and keep clients.
