Resume Writing Tips for Stylist

Introduction

A polished and targeted resume is essential for any stylist looking to advance their career. The styling field demands a mix of creativity, technical knowledge, client relationship skills, and business acumen. An effective resume reflects all these attributes in a concise, clear manner that appeals both to hiring managers and Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS). From hairstylists and fashion stylists to makeup artists and personal shoppers, your resume should tell a compelling story of your expertise and accomplishments, standing out from the sea of other candidates.

1. Resume Summary

Your resume summary is the hook that grabs attention and invites the recruiter to read more. It should be a brief paragraph or a few bullet points encapsulating your styling experience, specialties, and what sets you apart.

Example: “Creative and detail-oriented professional stylist with over 7 years of experience in fashion and editorial styling. Expert at trend forecasting, client relationship management, and coordinating high-profile photoshoots. Proven track record of boosting client satisfaction by 30% through personalized style consultations.”

2. Key Skills

Highlighting the right key skills efficiently signals your fit for a stylist role. Include a blend of technical, creative, and interpersonal skills tailored to the job description.

• Fashion Trend Analysis
• Color Theory & Coordination
• Client Consultation & Communication
• Makeup Application & Techniques
• Hair Styling & Maintenance
• Wardrobe Styling & Outfit Coordination
• Photoshoot Preparation & Execution
• Inventory & Budget Management
• Brand Collaboration & Partnership
• Time Management & Scheduling

3. Achievements vs. Responsibilities

Rather than listing typical responsibilities, focus on your achievements and the impact you made. Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible to provide concrete evidence of your contributions.

For example: “Increased repeat client bookings by 40% within one year through personalized style recommendations and excellent service” is more compelling than “Handled client styling appointments.”

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each job application by carefully analyzing the job description and mirroring relevant keywords, skills, and experiences. This increases the chances your resume will pass ATS filters and resonate with recruiters.

5. Tools

• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Canva
• Trello (for project management)
• Pinterest (for mood boards)
• Instagram (portfolio & marketing)
• Microsoft Office Suite
• POS Systems (for retail styling)
• Google Workspace
• Shopify / E-commerce platforms

6. Metrics

• Increased client retention rate by 25%
• Styled over 50 photoshoots and editorial shoots annually
• Managed budget of $20K+ for wardrobe purchases
• Reduced wardrobe costs by 15% through vendor negotiation
• Boosted social media engagement by 35% via styling content

7. Education

• Associate Degree in Fashion Merchandising, XYZ Fashion Institute
• Certified Makeup Artist, ABC Beauty Academy

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional font such as Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica
• Organize content in clear sections with headings and bullet points

9. Concise

Keep your resume to one or two pages maximum. Eliminate fluff by focusing on the most relevant and impactful information to maintain the recruiter’s attention.

10. Bonus

• Include a link to your online portfolio or Instagram showcasing your styling work
• Add testimonials or brief client quotes if space allows for added credibility

Examples

• Boosted client satisfaction scores by 30% through tailored style consultations, leading to a 20% increase in referrals within 12 months.
• Coordinated and styled 60+ editorial photoshoots annually, collaborating with photographers and makeup artists to deliver compelling visual stories.

Conclusion

Creating an impactful stylist resume requires more than listing job duties; it demands showcasing how you lead creative projects, analyze trends, and deliver measurable results. By highlighting your achievements, tailoring your skills, and presenting your experience crisply and professionally, you position yourself as a candidate who brings both artistry and strategic insight to every styling challenge. A well-crafted resume is your gateway to advancing your career and capturing the attention your talent deserves.