Moving abroad to pursue your dreams can feel daunting, yet it often unlocks incredible opportunities, especially in competitive industries like fashion. For many aspiring fashion professionals, global hubs like New York, London, and Paris represent the epicenters of creativity and career advancement. These cities offer not only a vibrant atmosphere but also robust educational systems and a culture that appreciates innovation and hard work in the fashion sector. Raghav Tibrewal, a young and ambitious stylist, exemplifies this journey. He made the bold move from India to London at a young age to immerse himself in the world of fashion, studying at the prestigious Istituto Marangoni and subsequently building an impressive portfolio styling for renowned publications such as ELLE, GQ, and Another Magazine.
In this insightful interview, Raghav Tibrewal, a freelance stylist making waves in the fashion industry, shares exclusive details about the initial challenges he faced as he started his career. He also provides valuable advice on how to maintain a competitive edge and effectively prepare for the demanding world of fashion styling.
Raghav, it’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Thank you for sharing your time and experiences with Glam Observer readers. Could you please introduce yourself to our audience?
Hello everyone, my name is Raghav Tibrewal. I’m originally from India, but currently based in London. I am in my final year at Istituto Marangoni, pursuing a BA in Fashion Styling. Alongside my studies, I work as a freelance stylist, creative director, and publicist.
You grew up in India, correct? Can you tell us about your decision to move to the UK and when this happened?
Yes, I was raised in India. My journey to London was quite spontaneous and almost humorous. After finishing high school, I took a gap year and went to Spain as an exchange student. It was there that I truly felt free to explore androgynous fashion. This exploration significantly boosted my confidence. I started posting images on Instagram showcasing my style, including wearing heels, and I was contacted by a friend who was studying at Marangoni. She introduced me to the Fashion Styling course, and that was the turning point. I applied while still in Spain, got accepted, and just a couple of months later, I found myself in London.
When did your passion for the fashion industry begin to develop?
My passion evolved over time. I had a challenging period during my teenage years, experiencing bullying that led to me dropping out of school and being homeschooled. During that time, the fashion industry seemed like a magical realm where creativity was celebrated without judgment—a true playground for self-expression. My first foray into the industry was an internship at MissMalini.com in India, where I worked with the Sales & Marketing team. Later, MissMalini gave me the opportunity to write a weekly fashion blog for her website. I believe that’s when my interest in fashion solidified into a serious pursuit.
You attended Istituto Marangoni. How would you describe your experience at university?
I am currently completing my BA in Fashion Styling at Istituto Marangoni. My university experience has been incredible. We’ve gained extensive knowledge in a wide range of subjects, from the History of Art & Dress to Visual Merchandising and Advertising. The program is intense, no doubt, but immensely rewarding. We have opportunities to create our own magazines, fashion films, and participate in photoshoots, which are all very exciting aspects of the course.
Do you believe a fashion-related education is essential for a career in this industry?
Not necessarily. While a fashion education can be beneficial, especially for roles outside of design, I believe anyone with passion and drive can find their place in this industry. What’s crucial is the passion to learn, create, research, understand fashion history, and consistently produce work. Skills can be developed over time and through experience. I know many successful individuals in senior positions at major publications who did not attend fashion school.
What are the most significant challenges of working as a freelance stylist in the fashion industry?
The biggest challenge is definitely the uncertainty that comes with freelancing. Unlike full-time employment, project availability can be unpredictable. You might experience quiet periods lasting weeks, followed by a sudden influx of multiple projects. Effective time management is crucial; you need to be efficient without rushing and compromising quality.
What key characteristics and skills are essential for a successful stylist?
Attention to detail is paramount. A stylist must be incredibly detail-oriented and possess excellent time management skills. Passion, drive, and a strong work ethic are also fundamental to success in this field.
Could you share some insights about your work with ELLE and GQ?
My experience with GQ India was actually several years ago. I worked as the Editor in Chief’s second assistant for a month. It was a high-pressure environment, particularly during magazine closing, which involved working weekends. My projects with Elle India involved assisting as a stylist for their January and September cover shoots in 2018. Working with them was an amazing experience, especially being around such strong, independent women who were our cover stars. I even had the exciting opportunity to select jewelry for one of the shoots.
What advice would you offer young individuals passionate about pursuing a career in fashion and styling?
The fashion industry is incredibly competitive and moves at a rapid pace. It’s vital to dive in headfirst and find your specific niche. There will be times when things don’t go as planned, despite your best efforts, and that’s perfectly acceptable. Learn to let go and move forward. Taking breaks is okay, but when you’re working, you need to work harder than ever. Develop a thick skin, pay meticulous attention to email etiquette, and always be punctual. Don’t hesitate to voice your opinions confidently; self-assurance is key to being a successful stylist. You need to believe in your decisions and in yourself, even if others might not initially.
Any final thoughts?
Fashion is a remarkable industry, albeit intense at times. Remember to take moments to breathe whenever possible. The fast-paced nature is what drives us, but your mental and physical well-being are ultimately the most important. If you feel overwhelmed, it’s okay to step back and allow someone else to take the lead. Learning to say no is crucial, even though the fear of missing out can be strong. Take care and stay warm.
Interview by Lilly Meuser
