Fashion Coordinators

During the 1970s and 1980s, the fashion industry was revolutionized by the increasing popularity of ready-to-wear fashions. Major designers began to show lines of clothing intended for the average consumer. This move from producing only haute couture (the creation of exclusive fashions) to making more affordable—and wearable—clothing allowed fashion to be accessed by the middle class.

The public's interest in fashion has also been fueled by the growing importance of fashion in other fields, especially media and entertainment. The careers of stylists and fashion coordinators came from the need to design and advise on the use of fashion in advertising campaigns in print, television, and live formats. Also, the entertainment industry needed fashion experts to help coordinate clothing and accessories for actors, actresses, and musicians. The coordinator working in the entertainment world needs to be aware of the setting (stage, backdrops, lighting) in which the actor, actress, or musician will appear. The fashion coordinator must also use management and office skills to arrange schedules, select locations for shows, and keep records and do billing.