Morgan Bienvenue

What do I love most about my work?

Seeing the look on my clients’ faces when they put on something that lights them up. There’s always a change in posture, a skirt twirl, or devilish smiles, as if to say, “Oh, I can really do something in this…”

What do I think is the biggest misconception newcomers often have about my field of work?

How physical it is! Wardrobe styling really is a demanding job, from lugging dozens of garment bags around, to dressing the models, to shopping every store possible so you stay current on what's available in the market. It's a schlep, but I love it.

What do I think is the biggest threat to my industry and/or field of work?

A few years ago, I would have said influencers but now I have a more positive perspective on styling because of the commitment so many people have made in recent years to cultivating their wellbeing. Dressing is an aspect of self-care that's often overlooked but more and more people are getting privy to. They're willing to invest in themselves, but the landscape is still confusing to them. The wardrobe stylists who explain in plain language how their services will benefit clients in an emotional and pragmatic way will win out among free digital stylists at retailers or TikTok influencers simply making GRWM content.

What is your personal approach for maintaining work-life satisfaction?

Doing jobs for free. Unfortunately, this is still an integral part of how the fashion industry functions, whether you're a stylist, designer, or agency-represented model. Many of us invest our time (and sometimes own money) to create images that enhance our portfolios. These images can book us paid jobs or get the attention of even more talented teams we'd like to work with. My advice would be to create a moodboard of all the kinds of images you want to create in your portfolio, listing brands, photographers, designers, etc you'd like to work with one day. If a free job or collaboration doesn't help get you there, don't take it.

How do I think people in my field should adapt to stay relevant throughout their career?

Establish clear boundaries for yourself while being a "yes" person in every other aspect. Take whatever job comes your way that still respects what you're not willing to compromise on, and even then maybe take the job anyway...You never know who will be on set that will recommend you in the future or if that type of gig ends up being something you love.

Looking back, what's one thing I wish I knew about my field before I started?

When I started, there was a bigger barrier to entry than there is now. There wasn't the ability to build your own influence through social media and share your style perspective outside of a glossy magazine job. I hope those who want to be stylists in the future just go for it and don't get frozen by worrying if the industry will accept them or not. There's literally an audience for everyone's style out there - share your s*it fearlessly and tell as many people as you can about it.

What POV do I bring to the table that challenges the status quo of my industry?

How sellable I can make the products I'm styling. In the fashion industry, a lot of desirability is driven by celebrity, exclusivity, or beauty, but there aren't direct links to how gorgeous a print campaign is and how many units it moved. My advertising background has trained me to understand the mind of the consumer - their motivations, passions, budgets - and the aesthetic languages that drive them to purchase. I can translate my understanding of subcultures to moving product today, not just pandering to the industry's insatiable need for what's next.

Insights on what working in my specific role within my field entails, including common practices and expectations.

Insights into common misconceptions and challenges faced in my industry, helping professionals to avoid common pitfalls.Item description

Strategies to remain adaptable and resilient amidst career challenges and industry changes, emphasizing the importance of flexibility and continuous learning.

Strategies for smoothly transitioning between different positions or roles within my industry, including adapting skills and building new networks.

Guidance on building and maintaining professional networks, both online and offline, to support career growth.

Insights on navigating gig work, securing contracts, and managing a freelance career, including financial and legal considerations.

Insights on developing and promoting a personal brand within your industry, emphasizing the importance of a unique professional identity.