Meet Saba
The Multifacted Creative Behind her Agency
Publisher: Saba Mengal
Nov 11, 2024
What is some advice that you would give to anyone who wants to achieve a career in styling?
1.) Embracing Your Journey
It all starts from within. Believe in yourself, and don't let others' opinions define you. As the world evolves, the most important relationship is with yourself. Discover your unique style and what brings you joy. Reflect on your vital skills and consider whether you enjoy collaborating with others. If collaboration isn’t your strength, think about how you can enhance that skill and others essential for your journey into styling.
2.) Finding Your Path
When I first began styling, I felt a mix of nervousness and excitement. However, I quickly realized that this was my calling—a creative outlet to share my story. It’s perfectly okay to feel lost at the beginning; uncertainty is part of the beauty of the journey. Styling is a learning experience; very few start their first shoot knowing all the answers. Even those with a natural talent still learn and grow through practice. Cultivating a growth mindset is crucial for success in this field.
3.) Building Your Team
Contact industry connections, friends, and family to see who might be interested in modelling for your planning shoot. This part is incredibly energizing—akin to scouting for an agency. Once you have your models, brainstorm the aesthetic you want to convey. Platforms like Pinterest can serve as great sources of inspiration. Create a brief to organize your ideas, using tools like Canva to guide your team visually. Don’t forget to title your shoot; it can serve as your foundational reference.
4.) Location and Logistics
With your team and idea in place, the next step is choosing a suitable location. Whether you opt for a studio or an outdoor setting, this decision shapes the narrative of your shoot. After finalizing the area, plan the date and gather everyone’s contact information on a call sheet. Send this out 2-3 weeks in advance to ensure everyone stays connected and informed.
5.) Sourcing Your Looks
Now that you're organized, it’s time to consider what your models will wear. Contact friends, family, or fashion instructors to borrow clothing that aligns with your theme. You might need a pull letter or a simple agreement based on trust, but always communicate clearly what you intend to use and the responsibilities involved.
6.) Organizing Your Styling Kit
After sourcing your looks, it’s time to organize them. Use your keen judgment to style them with appropriate accessories. Investing in a reliable styling kit is beneficial for keeping everything in one place. I highly recommend the Jula Vance Clear Storage bag; it’s excellent for photoshoots and easy to carry, especially during long shooting days.
# Essential Items for a Styling Kit
Be prepared with essential items in your styling kit. Here’s a checklist to keep you organized:
- Quality safety pins
- Elastic bands
- Paper clips and various types of tape
- Lint rollers
- Skin cover tapes
- A tagging gun
- Glue sticks
- An iron or steamer
- Garment bags
- Notepads and a selection of pens
- Labeling stickers and ziplock bags
- A mini sewing kit
- Extra hangers
- And, of course, caffeine for energy!
*Note that depending on the specific shoot, some items may not be
necessary, but having a well-stocked kit on hand is wise.*
Final Preparation and Mindset
A hot tip: iron and organize everything a few days ahead of the shoot. If you prefer to steam the night before, that’s also a great way to keep everything looking sharp. Remember to breathe and stay calm even if things don’t go as initially planned; each challenge is an opportunity to learn and find creative solutions. Adopt the "fake it till you make it" mentality; confidence is vital to navigating any situation. Shine brightly, and through practice, you will undoubtedly achieve growth in your styling journey.
I'm glad you asked! From as far back as I can remember, younger me was always into dressing up and dressing her dolls, to helping her mum pick out a scarf that matched her outfit, but it was more than this. I have always loved clothes and seeing how they look paired with the perfect shoes, accessories, and handbags! I loved how the different colours, shapes, textures, and fabrics looked when styled together as an outfit when eventually, one day, I thought of turning my love & passion into something more.. and that has brought me to the present- a well-rounded individual with many skills, experiences, & knowledge in the field today. A robust eye for detail helps me expand beyond my creative senses and execute a beautiful shoot with a long-lasting impression.
I firmly believe that in everything I do, I am always bringing my experiences, ideas, creativity, passion, leadership, communication, and team collaboration, which are all valuable to me whether it's a fashion show, a photoshoot, or even a team meeting, it's my true passion and efforts which have gotten me so far into the industry today. I love everything that comes into a photoshoot: the idea, the mood, the brief itself, the "scramble to find all the pieces you need for looks", the tools in youre kit, the tagging gun, of course, and the caffeine that you need to drink or else you will fall asleep due to a lack of sleep the night before preparing final preparations. YES, this is a joy to me, which gets me thrilled and brings on the endrellam that inspires me to keep pushing and exceeding to new heights.
So what made you choose styling?
I remember my first ever shoot where I had to substitute particular looks the day off because I was stressed that It wouldn't look "good on camera," or I remember an incident I encountered while working on a creative project. I had difficulty communicating my ideas because I feared being judged or rejected. These were all learning experiences I discovered, and I had learned my weaknesses that I didn't realize until being put into a team of people. It wasn't easy initially, but it will be very transparent. I was judged; I may not have known what I was doing; maybe I did certain things I didn't know, but I learned from my experiences and decided to learn how to improve them and not let the same thing happen afterwards a shoot. These things are bound to occur in our lives, and we learn from our experiences. I did, and I'm glad to say that now I am entirely directing my photoshoots because I decided to stop caring what people thought of me, not caring if I was judged, and just focusing on me and how I wanted to represent myself as a Stylist. I learned to believe in myself and be confident. Smile at everyone, shake everyone's hands, and follow up with youre industry, it's essential to stay up-to-date and connected, and don't burn bridges!
Saba's Anecdotes
Resources
I recommend checking out Style Wise: A Practical Guide to Becoming a Fashion Stylist for inspiration, resources, and connections.
I highly recommend checking out Harpers Bazar for news articles to stay updated on industry trends, fashion galas, shows, and emerging creatives! harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends
Brianna Wise, who is a Fashion Stylist, shares some amazing industry tips and advice on how to succeed and build youre own portfolio! Check her page: How To Become A Fashion Stylist: Starting From Zero & Building Your Portfolio
Brianna Wise, who is a Fashion Stylist, shares some amazing industry tips and advice on how to succeed and build youre own portfolio! Check her page: How To Become A Fashion Stylist: Starting From Zero & Building Your Portfolio
I remember my first-ever shoot where I had to substitute specific looks on the day off because I was stressed that they wouldn’t look "good on camera." While working on a creative project, I also encountered an incident where I struggled to communicate my ideas due to a fear of being judged or rejected. These experiences taught me a lot about my weaknesses, which I didn’t fully realize until I was part of a team. Initially, it wasn't easy, and I often felt judged.
I might not have known what I was doing, and I certainly made mistakes. However, I learned from those experiences and consciously chose to improve and not let the same issues occur again after a shoot. These challenges are a part of our journey, and I’m grateful for them because now I’m confidently directing my photoshoots. I decided to stop worrying about what others thought of me, focused on how I wanted to represent myself as a stylist and learned to believe in myself. Smiling, greeting everyone warmly, and staying connected within the industry are also essential. It's important to be up-to-date and maintain relationships; don't burn bridges!
The list of things to do and avoid could go on, but I’ll start with a crucial tip: always arrive early to any shoot, even if it's just 5-10 minutes. It presents a professional image and ensures you’re ready to kick off the day. Arriving late can come across as unprofessional. Traffic issues happen, and we understand that, but try your best to make it a habit to be early. Remember, early is on time!
Double-check your bags and equipment before and after the shoot to ensure you have all your belongings. You don’t want to scramble for that necklace you left on your dresser on the day off because you had to try it the night before. We’ve all been there, so let’s avoid that mistake! I recommend keeping accessories organized in durable containers or Ziploc bags and labelling them for easy access on the shoot day. The same goes for garments in labelled garment bags, shoes, and other accessories. You don’t want to misplace valuable items—losing something important doesn't reflect well on you.
Respect the models. Do not assume they’re okay changing just anywhere; ask them if they need accommodations and provide them as the stylist. Be polite and understand that if something doesn’t fit properly, you must make it work. Whether grabbing a few safety pins to cinch a dress or substituting a garment at the last moment, always ensure everything aligns with the model's measurements.
Regarding payment, keep your options open before choosing a photographer or studio, as those costs can add up quickly, especially if you're financing your shoot. Consider collaborating with others willing to work on a trade-for-print (TFP) basis—this means no one is being paid. Still, it's a collaborative effort that gets published and can be used in social media or portfolios. I highly recommend contacting passionate creatives before paying, as costs can accumulate quickly.
Industry must know; Things to do/Avoid
LVMH offers two yearly certificate programs that help individuals gain insights into the luxury industry, many of LVMH's maisons, and how their business sectors run their businesses, as well as strategies, sustainability, social responsibility, equity, branding, culture, DEI, and much more.
As someone who has taken this program and succeeded with valuable knowledge, I'd recommend it to anyone who wants to expand their expertise in fashion. Check it out here! LVHM Certificate Application
What is your biggest accomplishment as a Stylist?
I would begin by emphasizing the strengths I've developed as a stylist in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. The inherent stress that accompanies this role is something that many stylists face; it’s a reality of the job. On any given day on set, it’s my responsibility to ensure that everything runs smoothly. From coordinating wardrobe changes to ensuring our models are fully prepared for each shot, the demands are considerable. Yet, I thrive on the challenge and am committed to delivering outstanding outcomes.
The memories, connections, and fulfillment I've gained as a stylist are equally rewarding. Each stepping stone has contributed to my success, and I am immensely grateful for that. It goes beyond simply seeing a captivating photo of a model adorned in an exquisite gown on the runway; it’s about the collective effort and dedication of the entire creative team that fuels our shared success. Each project carries a palpable energy, and knowing that everyone walks away with extraordinary work is truly gratifying.
In conclusion, I acknowledge that my learning journey is ongoing. I continue to absorb new tricks and insights from my experiences within the industry. While gaining hands-on experience is invaluable, a genuine passion for my craft drives me daily. I must wake up enthusiastic to contribute my best to the work I love. This passion enhances my skillset and motivates me to excel in this dynamic field.
What is it like directing your shoots?
Don't overthink it! Your ideas are incredible! Draw inspiration from iconic photoshoots; revisit those from magazines like Vogue that leave you in awe. Incorporate elements from those editorials as well as inspirations from your interests. Explore magazines for seasonal trends and observe what people wear on the streets. It shouldn't be overcomplicated; a little stress is just part of the creative process (and it can be healthy!). Plan your finances and set a budget for your shoot—stick to it!
Avoid overspending and try sourcing items from friends, family, or local boutiques and designers. Vintage thrift stores often have unique, stylish, and current selections. If you plan to pull from higher-priced branded stores, keep your receipts and confirm that the items aren't on final sale. Always bring water and snacks! You never know if you'll spend nine hours at a shoot far away from food sources. Trust me, it's better to be prepared and not hesitate to take breaks. You deserve a 5-minute pause while the makeup and hair artists do their thing! Advocate for your ideas while also listening to your team. When collaborating, voice your opinions, but be open to feedback. Consider it constructive criticism, regardless of whether you disagree. Listen, and then stand your ground and present your creative ideas.
Trust your instincts—they're valuable! Lastly, avoid negativity and drama. Staying positive is vital. Don't take a small critique from a director, classmate, or model personally. Use it as an opportunity for growth, but don't let other people's opinions negatively affect you. The industry can be competitive, and sometimes, you might not fit perfectly into a group. Keep it professional, listen, respect others, and proceed in a way that aligns with your values and represents the best version of you!
When I started styling, I always had a team leader's perspective. Still, I wasn't as confident as I am now, and that was because, at the start, I always got anxious, and being 18 when I first started was scary. However, I always had a confident personality and knew that nine times out of ten, people in teams want somebody to direct them toward a specific goal. For me, that was a jumping-off point to confidently directing my shoots! I also had the privilege of working alongside my classmates while studying fashion, learning my weak points and addressing them to grow further and turn them into skills for the future.
It's not as difficult as it may seem, but you must know how to be a good leader. That may not be your strongest skill, but you can always learn to improve it by leading people in teams or any project. I recommend learning how to control your emotions and opinions so people don't find them antagonistic. One skill I've mastered is emotional intelligence, which helps me in my daily routine as it is a valuable life skill.
For example, when I'm working with a team of people and leading the shoot, I need to know what direction to give the models and use my good judgment to choose an area where it's best to capture a good shot, the angle, and whether the lighting matches the concept for the shoot. I also have to communicate one-on-one with the photographer to ensure everything aligns with the idea! This can also involve assigning the models to a specific hair stylist and makeup artist while following up with them to ensure their application and hair styling preparations align with the shoot's time frame.
Sometimes, artists take a bit longer than expected, which can slow down your shots. Still, you need to ensure that if it looks like it will take longer to shoot, you inform everyone by saying, “Hey everyone, I originally allocated one hour for makeup application, and we are over our time frame for the first shot; the hair isn’t completed yet. We need to pick up the pace, or we will be here longer, and I want to leave on schedule.” By saying this, you kindly inform them while providing a course of action if they do not expedite the process.
I firmly believe that maintaining an organized approach is essential in every facet of the creative process—whether it's brainstorming journal ideas, crafting compelling presentations, or curating inspiration from magazines that ignite your creativity. Implementing a structured system in your life is not just a strategy; it's a cornerstone of long-term success. Being organized allows you to harness your creativity effectively while minimizing stress and maximizing productivity.
Moreover, it's critical to keep your financial costs transparent and to budget wisely, especially in the world of styling, where expenses can quickly add up. I learned this firsthand during a recent music video shoot where I was tasked with managing a buy-and-return situation. The experience was both enlightening and challenging. The stylist I was assisting needed a few last-minute pieces to complete our vision, and it became my responsibility to source the best items that embodied the director's creative intent. While it was a costly endeavor, it reinforced the importance of being able to adapt quickly and efficiently under pressure.
In my journey, I've identified several key strengths that are invaluable for anyone pursuing a career in styling. Budgeting, organization, effective communication, and time management are not just skills but essential components of a successful workflow. Additionally, being resourceful and collaborative within a team is equally important. When everyone aligns their strengths towards a common goal, the results are often exceptional.
As a stylist, these qualities will not only elevate your work but also help build lasting relationships within the industry. Learning to navigate the complexities of a styling project while keeping everything organized will set you apart and propel you toward your career aspirations. Embrace these skills, and watch as they open doors to new opportunities in the dynamic world of fashion and styling!
Any Other Tips?
Vision
Empowering Creativity and Impact
My mission is to embark on a continuous journey of learning and growth in the fashion industry. I am dedicated to excelling through creativity and collaboration, curating a diverse and captivating portfolio that reflects my unique artistic vision. With the ambition to work alongside MMG Artists in Dubai, I aim to transform my experiences into meaningful contributions that inspire and uplift the global fashion community.
Mission
Creating a Vibrant Future in Fashion
My vision is to emerge as a trailblazer in the fashion industry, celebrated for my innovative spirit and dedication to artistic diversity. I envision a dynamic future where my work elevates not only my portfolio but also enriches an inclusive and vibrant creative community.
By embracing cultural heritage and artistic expression, I aspire to leave an indelible mark on the fashion world, motivating others to follow their passions and celebrate their individuality.
