How Much Do Commercial Stylists Earn? Salary Breakdown
If you have a passion for fashion and a keen eye for style, you may have considered a career as a commercial stylist. Commercial stylists are professionals who work in the fashion industry, creating looks and outfits for commercial advertisements, photo shoots, and fashion shows. But before you embark on this exciting career path, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of the salary potential. In this blog post, we will delve into the world of commercial stylist salaries and discuss various factors that can influence your earnings.
Income Variability in Commercial Styling
Before we dive into the salary details, it’s important to note that the income of a commercial stylist can vary significantly depending on several factors such as experience, location, industry, and clientele. The more experienced and established you are, the higher the chances of commanding a higher salary. Similarly, working in fashion-forward cities like New York or Los Angeles may offer more lucrative opportunities compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
Statistics on Commercial Stylist Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for fashion stylists, which includes commercial stylists, was $69,130 as of May 2020.
However, it’s crucial to keep in mind that this figure represents the median, meaning that half of the stylists earned more than this amount, while the other half earned less. The lowest 10 percent of stylists earned less than $34,050, while the highest 10 percent earned more than $146,300.
Industry Influence on Salary
The industry you work in can also have a significant impact on your salary as a commercial stylist. While the majority of commercial stylists work in the motion picture and video industries, they can also find employment in advertising, public relations, and wholesale trade. The motion picture and video industries tend to offer higher salaries, with a median annual wage of $78,220. On the other hand, the advertising, public relations, and wholesale trade industries have median annual wages of $68,450, $59,040, and $51,270, respectively.
Impact of Clientele
Another factor that can influence your salary as a commercial stylist is the type of clients you work with. Commercial stylists who work with high-profile clients, such as celebrities or luxury brands, often have the potential to earn higher incomes. These clients often have larger budgets and are willing to pay a premium for top-tier stylists who can create unique and standout looks.
The Role of Experience
Experience is a crucial factor when it comes to determining your salary as a commercial stylist. As you gain more experience and build a strong portfolio, you can negotiate higher rates and attract more prestigious clients. Many stylists start their careers as assistants, working under established stylists to gain valuable experience and industry connections. This hands-on experience can be invaluable in developing your skills and reputation within the industry.
Education and Earning Potential
In addition to experience, education can also play a role in your earning potential as a commercial stylist.
While a formal education is not always required to become a stylist, it can provide you with a competitive edge in the industry. Several renowned fashion schools offer programs in fashion styling, such as New York University (NYU) Tisch School of the Arts, Parsons School of Design (part of The New School), and the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT).
These institutions provide comprehensive training in fashion styling, including courses on commercial styling, fashion trends, and industry techniques.
Online Learning Opportunities
For those who prefer a more flexible and accessible approach to learning, online courses can be a great option. Yellowbrick, for example, offers an online course called FIT Fashion Styling Foundations, which covers various aspects of fashion styling, including commercial styling. These courses provide a convenient and affordable way to gain industry knowledge and enhance your skills, all from the comfort of your own home.
In conclusion, a career as a commercial stylist can be both creatively fulfilling and financially rewarding. While salaries can vary depending on factors such as experience, location, industry, and clientele, the potential to earn a competitive income is certainly there. By gaining experience, building a strong portfolio, and continuously honing your skills, you can position yourself for success in this dynamic and exciting field.
Please note that the information provided in this blog post is based on available data and industry research, and individual salaries may vary.
Key Takeaways:
- Commercial stylists can earn a competitive income, but it can vary based on factors such as experience, location, industry, and clientele.
- The median annual wage for fashion stylists, including commercial stylists, was $69,130 as of May 2020, with potential for higher earnings.
- Working in fashion-forward cities and industries like motion pictures and videos may offer more lucrative opportunities.
- Commercial stylists who work with high-profile clients often have the potential to earn higher incomes.
- Experience and a strong portfolio are essential for negotiating higher rates and attracting prestigious clients.
- Formal education, such as programs offered by renowned fashion schools, can provide a competitive edge in the industry.
- Online courses, like FIT Fashion Styling Foundations by Yellowbrick, offer a flexible and accessible way to gain industry knowledge and enhance skills.
Considering the potential for a rewarding career as a commercial stylist, it’s essential to equip yourself with the right skills and knowledge. If you’re looking for a convenient and comprehensive way to learn about fashion styling, including commercial styling, consider enrolling in the FIT Fashion Styling Foundations online course by Yellowbrick. This course offers a valuable opportunity to gain industry insights, enhance your skills, and take a step towards a successful career as a commercial stylist. Embrace your passion for fashion and embark on a journey towards creative fulfillment and financial success.
