Start Here: Your Guide to Getting into Interior Styling
Welcome!
If you’re looking to break into the world of interior styling, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re brand new or exploring a career shift into interior styling, this page will guide you through what you need to know and where to begin. Interior styling is an exciting, creative, and dynamic field – but like any creative career, getting started can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’ve pulled together everything you need to know in one place.
A quick intro
Hello, I’m Emma Morton-Turner, an interior stylist, writer, and the founder of Inside Stylists. Based in London, I’ve worked on interiors shoots for magazines, brands, and commercial clients. I started Inside Stylists to bring together creatives in the interiors industry. I remember how daunting it felt starting out – the endless questions, the eagerness to assist, and the desperation to be part of the styling and interior design communities. That’s why I’ve created this page – to give you everything I wish I had when I was getting started.
Whether you’re fresh out of school, pivoting careers, or simply drawn to the styling of a beautiful home or house, this is your place to begin. If you’re searching for how to be an Interior Stylist – London based or otherwise, you’ll find all the tools you need to get started right here.
1. Understand the Role
Learn what an interior stylist really does – its more than just fluffing cushions.
Interior styling involves more than making a space look pretty. Stylists are responsible for telling visual stories through interiors – whether that’s for a magazine shoot, a commercial brand campaign, or a styled room set for a retailer. You’ll need to understand how to work with photographers, art directors, PRs, and often interior designers, stay on top of trends, manage props and samples, and think creatively under pressure.
Start with these essential reads:
Before you dive into assisting, it’s helpful to truly understand the role of an interior stylist. In this episode of Freestyling Friday, I shared insights from my 25 years in the industry – covering everything from the core skills you need, to how the industry has evolved, and the many hats stylists wear on set.
If you’ve ever wondered what to say when someone asks, “What exactly does an interior stylist do?” – this episode has your answer.
2. Get Work Experience
Tips and strategies to land those all-important first assisting jobs.
Work experience is one of the most valuable ways to get your foot in the door. Assisting gives you insight into how shoots are run, helps you build contacts, and lets you develop your styling eye. It’s also where many Interior Designers, Archictects and Interior stylists begin to form their own style and understand what types of shoots they enjoy most – interiors, lifestyle, food, branding etc.
We’ve got lots of advice on how to secure those first opportunities:
-
How to Approach Interior Stylists for Work Experience
-
How to Get Work Experience if You’re Just Starting Out
These two features are the exact guide I wish I had when I was starting out. From making the right first contact to what to say in your email, how to stand out, and where to find opportunities — it’s all here.
If you’re serious about getting work experience and becoming an interior stylist, don’t miss these posts.
After years of teaching styling at UAL and through our own online courses, I’ve seen how eager new stylists are to jump into real shoots. That’s why I’ve created a Work Experience List – so students and course attendees can take that crucial first step.
If you’ve done a styling course and are ready to get on set, this is for you.
3. Build Your Profile
Start putting yourself out there professionally.
Once you’ve started assisting, it’s time to build your visibility. That includes setting up a professional Instagram account, creating a basic portfolio (even if it includes styled corners of your own home), and networking both online and in-person. Don’t be afraid to share your progress and design journey – every step counts!
Show your passion and consistency, and be open to opportunities – even if they don’t look exactly like your dream job right away. Every experience teaches you something valuable.
Helpful guides:
You’re not alone in wanting to become an interior stylist. It’s the job everyone wants – and for good reason. It’s creative, inspiring, and incredibly rewarding. But how do you actually get started? What does it take to land those dream shoots, grow your reputation, and find paid work?
In this post, I’m breaking down exactly what I’d do if I were starting from scratch today – from networking tips to building your portfolio, and getting real work experience on editorial and commercial shoots
Ever wondered what it’s really like stepping onto your first shoot as an interior stylist? In this episode, I’m sharing the highs, the hard lessons (including smashing a wine glass on set!), and the little wins that made a big impact in my early career.
Whether you’re just getting started or want to boost your confidence on shoots, this episode is full of honest advice, behind-the-scenes stories, and practical tips to help you grow as an interior stylist.
4. Join the Community
The best way to grow? Connect with those already doing it.
You don’t have to go it alone. Being part of a like-minded community gives you access to support, advice, insider opportunities, and collaborations. Our Inside Stylists membership is full of working stylists, interior designers, writers, photographers, and PRs – all sharing their knowledge and experience. If you’re serious about growing your styling or design career, this is the place to be.
Looking to learn even more? Check out our online courses designed to help new stylists and designers sharpen their skills, understand the business, and gain confidence. From pitching to shoot planning, these courses are made with real-world knowledge.
Take the next step:
5.Learn Styling with Our Online Course
Want to master interior styling at your own pace? Our Inside Stylists Interior Styling Course is packed with practical styling tips and techniques to help you create magazine-worthy shots. Taught by Emma Morton-Turner, this course shares over 20 years of experience in a simple, hands-on format.
What You’ll Learn:
- Composition, symmetry, and negative space
- Depth of field, layering, and styling rules
- How to style flatlays, shelves, sofas, and bedrooms
- How to shoot like a pro and work with photographers
- How to plan and execute a full shoot, including props, surfaces, and tools
You’ll get lifetime access, styling challenges, downloadable workbooks, and the chance for feedback.
Whether you’re new to styling or want to refine your skills, this course is your next step.
6. Still Have Questions?
You’re not alone – and we’re here to help.
If you’re unsure about the next step, or just need a bit of guidance, feel free to get in touch. I love hearing from passionate newcomers and pointing them in the right direction. If you’ve found this page helpful, be sure to share it with someone else starting their styling or interior design journey!
And don’t forget – success in this industry is about people. The connections you make, the professionals you admire, the stylists and designers who inspire you – they all shape your path. So be curious, be kind, and keep reaching out.
And don’t forget to tune into the Inside Stylists Podcast – we often feature episodes that talk about getting started, overcoming self-doubt, and finding your niche in the world of styling and interior design. I’ll be sure to link this page in the next episode so others can find their way here too!
Ready to Learn More?
Our Christmas Styling for Brands Interior Styling Course is the perfect way to take your first confident step into the world of styling for brands. Whether you want to assist, style your own shoots, or simply understand how the industry works, this course is full of practical tips, video lessons, and insider advice to help you succeed.
Check out the Interior Styling Course here – and start building the styling career you’ve been dreaming of!
