Sometimes it is hard to believe that it is possible to make one’s visions come true. But it really is about the work and effort you put into your dreams.
Often moving abroad seems to represent the only option for lots of young individuals, when it comes to building the career of their dreams.
Metropoles like New York City, Berlin or London mainly attract people who want to work in the fashion industry.
It can be about the spirit, the support of society, better systems of education or a different appreciation of your work effort. The young Raghav Tibrewal risked this step. He moved from India to London at a young age in order to study and work in fashion. He succeeded, got accepted at the renowned Institute Marangoni and worked as a stylist for ELLE, GQ and Another Magazine.
In the following interview, the freelance stylist offers you some exclusive insights into the challenges he had to deal with at the beginning of his career. He also gives some advice on how to stay competitive and how to prepare oneself for the fashion competition.
Hey Raghav, we really appreciate you being here with us today. Thanks for taking your time. May you quickly introduce yourself to the Glam Observer Girls?
Hey lovelies, my name is Raghav Tibrewal, I am originally from India, currently living in London. I am a final year student at Institute Marangoni doing my BA in Fashion Styling and I work as a freelance stylist, creative director
You were raised in India, is that correct? How and when did you decide to move to the UK?
I was raised in India, actually yes. My story to move to London is rather funny and oddly spontaneous actually. After high school I took a gap year to go to Spain as an exchange student and that was where I actually felt completely free to explore androgynous clothing. It sorts of just built my confidence a lot. I was posting a lot of images on Instagram of me in heels etc and I got contacted by a mutual friend who studied at Marangoni. She introduced me to the course and that was it really.
I applied while I lived in Spain, got accepted and a couple months later I was in London.
When did your passion for the fashion industry start?
Well, it evolved really. I had
This industry just seemed like a fairy tale, where you can create things and you wouldn’t be judged, it is your playground.
I interned at MissMalini.com back in India where I worked under the Sales & Marketing team and then she gave me the opportunity to write a weekly fashion blog on her website. I guess that is where it all just became a serious thing.
You studied at Instituto Marangoni. Could you describe your university experience?
I am currently a final year student at Institute Marangoni doing my BA in Fashion Styling. University has been an amazing experience, we have learnt so much and lessons ranging from History of Art & Dress to Visual Merchandising and Advertising.
It is intense, yes, but very exciting as we get to publish our own magazine, make fashion films, do shoots etc.
Do you think it is necessary to study something fashion related, if you want to work in this industry?
Definitely not. Yes, it does help if you have studied something fashion related when it comes to fields aside from Design. But I feel like anyone can be a part of this industry. You have to have the drive and the passion to read, create, research, know your history and just keep creating. Your skills will develop. I know so many people who didn’t go to fashion school but have senior positions at publications.
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What are the toughest challenges when working as a freelance stylist in the industry?
I think the main obstacle is
Which characteristics and skills should one have in order to be a successful stylist?
You should be very attentive. Attention to detail is a must and also your time management. Passion, drive, and hard work in general.
Can you tell us something about the work with ELLE and GQ?
GQ India was years ago actually. I worked as the Editor in Chiefs second assistant for a month. It was a lot of adrenaline and during closing month you work all weekend.
Elle India was a couple of projects where I worked as the assistant stylist on their January and September covers in 2018. It was so incredible to work with them, be in the presence of our cover stars who are two very strong independent women. I did get to pick and choose jewellery for one of our shoots which was very exciting.
Advice for young passionates who want to work in the fashion and styling business?
This is an incredibly competitive and
Last words
Fashion is a very wonderful industry and it can get quite intense. Take breaks to breathe when you can, it is fast paced and it is what drives us, but your mental and physical health is the most important at the end of the day. If you don’t think you can handle something it is okay, step back and let someone else do it. Sometimes you have to say no as much as FOMO is awful.
Have a lovely day and keep warm.
Interview by Lilly Meuser @lillymeuser
