Student stylists to get degrees

With the proliferation of celebrity fashion ranges across the high-street, and the increase in brands offering consumer-designed products and advertisments, it seems that everyone these days qualifies to be a designer. Which is why it comes as a surprise to read that alongside the numerous creative degrees already offered, one university feels the need to launch the first ever degree in styling.

In September Southampton Solent University (no, i’ve never heard of it either) will begin teaching an already over-subscribed degree in fashion styling that, according to the website "will help you to gain an understanding of fashion forecasting and
concept trend development. You will learn how fashion stylists work
creatively with magazines (in studios and on location), influence
designers, and help ‘theme and stage’ catwalk shows. You will have the opportunity to explore the importance of celebrity
dressing and model scouting, and understand image as an advertising
tool through fashion styling, make up and hair design."

The course seems to be ignoring the obvious demise of the print magazine industry and the plethora of stylists already searching for limited work, opting instead for content appeal to fill student quotas. According to a vogue interview with Suzie Norris, the school’s head of design, "graduates
will not merely follow established trends but will set new ones" – although with nothing in the curriculum to teach computer skills or web editorial, the chances of the three year study culminating in serious job offers seems highly unlikely. Sounds like a lot of fun though!

Read more about the course details at solent.ac.uk