The Fashion Stylist Lecturer

We recently caught up with Jennifer Anyan, Fashion Stylist and Programme Leader on the new, highly acclaimed Media & Fashion Styling courses at Southampton Solent University, who shared with us what it takes to be a successful fashion stylist and lecturer.

  • Jennifer Anyan, Programme Leader
    Jennifer Anyan, Programme Leader
Tell us about you, what do you do at Solent and where you have come from in terms of career.

I studied BA Fine Art at Winchester School of Art and have always made artwork that explores the construction of identity. Alongside my interest in Art I have always been passionate about fashion and in 2005 when Elle magazine ran a competition to find a new fashion stylist I entered, and subsequently became a finalist, then won. Since then I have juggled freelance fashion styling work with an art practice (I was awarded my MA Fine Art from Central Saint Martins in 2008) and teaching and in 2007 took the position at Solent University to develop a pioneering new BA (Hons) course in Fashion Styling.

What’s been your career highlight to date?

In 2007 I was commissioned by the Reg Vardy Gallery and John Hansard Gallery to make a series of work about the eccentricities of English Style, which was exhibited at John Hansard in 2007 as part of ‘North & South’. This was great because it enabled me to combine my art practice with my stylist’s ‘eye’ to make critical work that commented on how the English communicate through dress.

How did you first get into lecturing?

I did a PGCE at UCE after I had completed my degree.

What makes a great stylist in your eyes?

Someone who understands how to balance all components of a look or image and plays with ideas within their work.

Favourite fashion brand?

If I had to choose one, probably Prada.

If you could style any person (past or present) who would it be?

Oh goodness, I think there are a few pop stars or politicians I could help…Marie Antoinette would have been great because she was so extravagant and experimental in her look but she probably would have been a nightmare too!

Gina or Jimmy Choo?

Neither, someone up and coming and more edgy like Nicholas Kirkwood.

How do you keep up to date with trends and what’s going on in the fashion industry with such a busy schedule?

I was receiving updates from the front row through twitter and with images appearing from shows on the internet almost instantly it’s pretty easy now.

What one thing do you want to do before you die?

So many things! So many places I want to visit! I would like to get my PHD, not just to say I have a doctorate in style but I would enjoy that!

Any tips or advice for students looking to get into a career as a fashion stylist?

Log onto the Solent website and look at our course! Just be willing to get out there and offer yourself up to assist with things to gain experience and make contacts.

Best thing and worst thing about the fashion industry?

Best is the high energy, fast paced creativity. Worst is it can be difficult to balance the demands with family life.

Any tips for fashion stylists who want to pursue a career in lecturing?

Send me your CV and if you’re good we’ll get you in..

Out of all your students have you taught, have you seen a future star of the screen?

Absolutely, I think we have some real future style stars…watch this space.

Want to find out more about Southampton Solent University's Fashion Style Courses - click here.

Posted years ago by Chantelle Znideric

Chantelle is the Co-Founder of iStylista.com and in 2008 she won the award for ‘Most Inspiring Newcomer’ at The Federation of Image Consultants ‘Spirit of Inspiration’ Awards. This award gave recognition to her cutting edge services, innovative marketing techniques and enthusiasm for helping others achieve unimaginable style goals and newfound confidence.

Post a comment…

Recent articles

  • Dressing for Work – the golden rules

    Dressing for Work – the golden rules

    Getting our client's work wardrobe right is possibly the biggest challenge we as stylists are faced with. Not only do you want to make a positive impression at work and be noticed for all the right reasons, but you also want to feel good... after all, you spend most of your life working! Here are some ideas for sorting out your work wardrobe.

  • What is the 2012 Royal Ascot Dress Code

    What is the 2012 Royal Ascot Dress Code

    If you are lucky enough to be heading to Royal Ascot this year then you may want to read this. The dress code has altered slightly and you wouldn’t want to go getting it wrong, believe me!

  • Milli Millu Handbags SS12 collection - WIN

    Milli Millu Handbags SS12 collection - WIN

    Have we got a treat for you. Not only have we found an emerging handbag designer who is making waves for all the right reasons but we also have one of their handbags to give away... all £300 worth of glorious clutch!

Hot topics

  • The Pussycat Dolls Corset Look

    The Pussycat Dolls Corset Look

    Check out the Gorgeous Pussy Cat Dolls, proving they really do look incredible all of the time in pretty much anything, including corsets!

  • What Body Shape Am I?

    What Body Shape Am I?

    Contrary to popular belief there are 5 different female body shapes, which have been somewhat overcomplicated through the years and given all sorts of interesting names. Understanding which body shape you are is the first rule of getting to grips with your wardrobe.

  • What’s the difference between a Personal Stylist and An Image …

    What’s the difference between a Personal Stylist and An Image Consultant?

    There’s been much debate as to the difference between Image Consultants and Personal Stylists recently, so I am going to try and shed some light on the matter for you.

  • Have you got a shopping addiction?

    Have you got a shopping addiction?

    Did you know that a staggering 25% of Brits are addicted to shopping according to a national survey carried out by Kensington Financial Management Consultants.