Celebrity stylists have played a crucial role in shaping the fashion industry, crafting iconic looks that define eras and influence pop culture. From the glamorous Hollywood styles of the 1960s to today’s bold red carpet-moments, these fashion visionaries have been responsible for curating the images of the biggest stars. While designers create the clothes, stylists determine how they are worn, accessorized, and presented to the public. Many of these stylists have gone from working behind the scenes to becoming celebrities in their own right. Some of them have even launched fashion lines, authored books, or become TV personalities. Over the decades, styling has evolved from a niche profession to an essential part of celebrity branding. Whether shaping a timeless aesthetic or pushing boundaries with experimental fashion, these stylists have left a lasting mark on the industry. Each decade has introduced a new wave of talent that has defined beauty, elegance, and personal expression. Here’s a look at the most celebrity stylists from the 1960s to today.
1. Edith Head – The Hollywood Icon of the 60s
Edith Head was one of the most legendary stylists and costume designers of the 1960s, crafting looks that defined Old Hollywood glamour. She worked closely with stars like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor, ensuring they looked flawless both on and off the screen. Her work on classic films such as Breakfast at Tiffany’s and To Catch a Thief cemented her reputation as a visionary.
Head was known for her ability to create sophisticated, timeless silhouettes that enhanced the natural beauty of her clients. Her designs focused on elegance, with structured dresses, delicate accessories, and an emphasis on perfect tailoring. As noted on Britannica, Head’s influence can still be seen today in retro-inspired fashion and classic red carpet looks.
2. Patricia Field – The Stylist Who Revolutionized the 90s and 2000s
Patricia Field is best known for her groundbreaking work on Sex and the City, where she redefined modern fashion styling. Her mix of high fashion and street style made Carrie Bradshaw a global fashion icon, influencing how women dressed in the late 90s and early 2000s. Field had an eye for unexpected combinations—pairing tutus with tank tops, mismatched prints, and bold accessories that defied traditional fashion rules.
She also played a key role in styling The Devil Wears Prada, creating an aesthetic that captured the essence of high-fashion culture. According to InStyle, Field’s fearless approach to styling has made her one of the most influential fashion figures of the modern era.
3. Rachel Zoe – The Red Carpet Queen of the 2000s
Rachel Zoe became one of the most powerful celebrity stylists of the early 2000s, creating the signature “boho-chic” look that dominated Hollywood. She worked with A-list stars like Nicole Richie, Lindsay Lohan, and Jennifer Lawrence, helping them achieve effortlessly glamorous styles. Her influence was so strong that certain pieces, such as oversized sunglasses, maxi dresses, and chunky jewelry, became synonymous with her styling.
Zoe also played a significant role in reviving vintage fashion, frequently dressing her clients in archival designer pieces. As discussed in The Hollywood Reporter, Zoe’s attention to detail and love for luxurious, flowing fabrics helped shape the fashion landscape of the 2000s.
4. Law Roach – The Mastermind Behind Zendaya’s Style Evolution
He’s known for his ability to transform his clients into high-fashion icons. Roach gained widespread recognition for his work with Zendaya, turning her from a Disney Channel star into a style powerhouse. His approach to styling is both theatrical and refined, often incorporating vintage couture, bold silhouettes, and daring color choices. As noted on Business of Fashion, Roach’s career took off after styling Zendaya, and he has since become a co-creative director of her clothing and shoe line, Daya by Zendaya.
Roach’s work extends beyond Zendaya, as he has also styled stars like Celine Dion, Ariana Grande, and Anya Taylor-Joy. What sets Roach apart is his fearless storytelling through fashion. He treats styling as an art form, carefully curating outfits that convey a narrative or pay homage to fashion history. He has dressed his clients in everything from custom Valentino gowns to dramatic archival pieces that honor past designers. According to CBC, Roach’s work consistently lands his clients on best-dressed lists, proving that he understands both high fashion and personal branding. His influence continues to grow, making him one of the most in-demand stylists in the industry today. Roach’s career milestones include being the first African American on the cover of The Hollywood Reporter’s Most Powerful Stylists issue and winning the CFDA’s inaugural Stylist Award in 2022.
5. Karla Welch – The Stylist Redefining Modern Menswear and Women’s Fashion
Karla Welch has become one of the most respected stylists in the industry, known for her ability to push boundaries while maintaining a classic aesthetic. She has styled A-list celebrities like Justin Bieber, Tracee Ellis Ross, and Olivia Wilde, earning a reputation for creating sleek, modern looks. Welch is particularly known for redefining men’s fashion, encouraging male celebrities to embrace bold tailoring, unique textures, and unconventional silhouettes. Her work proves that styling is not just about following trends but about crafting a unique and confident image.
Beyond celebrity styling, Welch has used her influence to advocate for inclusivity and sustainability in fashion. She has collaborated with brands on gender-neutral collections and worked to promote designers who prioritize ethical fashion practices. Her minimalist yet statement-making approach has reshaped both red-carpet fashion and everyday celebrity style. Whether dressing a client for the Met Gala or a casual street-style moment, Welch’s touch always exudes effortless cool. Her ability to balance creativity with timeless elegance has solidified her as one of today’s top stylists.
6. Micaela Erlanger – The Modern Red Carpet Architect
Micaela Erlanger has become one of the most sought-after celebrity stylists in recent years, known for her impeccable red-carpet transformations. She has worked with A-list stars such as Lupita Nyong’o, Meryl Streep, and Diane Kruger, crafting some of the most talked-about looks in fashion. Erlanger’s approach is defined by her ability to blend classic elegance with contemporary edge, ensuring that her clients always stand out. She is particularly skilled at curating bold color choices, intricate embellishments, and vintage couture. Her styling is a mix of Hollywood glamour and modern sophistication, making her a favorite among high-fashion celebrities.
One of her most iconic moments was Lupita Nyong’o’s stunning baby blue Prada gown at the 2014 Academy Awards, which solidified both of their reputations in the industry. She has since continued to shape fashion narratives, ensuring that her clients make lasting impressions on the red carpet. Beyond styling, Erlanger has authored books and collaborated with brands to expand her influence in the fashion world. Her work is a testament to the idea that styling is about more than just clothing—it’s about storytelling and building confidence. As she continues to evolve, her impact on Hollywood’s most glamorous moments only grows stronger.
7. Jason Bolden – The Stylist Who Brings Luxury to Every Look
Jason Bolden has become a powerhouse in the fashion industry, known for styling top Hollywood figures like Michael B. Jordan, Taraji P. Henson, and Yara Shahidi. His styling is effortlessly luxurious, blending high fashion with a fresh, modern aesthetic. He is one of the few stylists who seamlessly works across both men’s and women’s fashion, creating striking looks that exude confidence and class. Whether dressing a client in custom couture or an impeccably tailored suit, Bolden ensures that every detail is flawless. His understanding of proportion, fit, and personality makes him a standout in an industry filled with talented stylists.
What makes Bolden unique is his ability to push boundaries while maintaining a sense of sophistication. He encourages male celebrities to embrace bold color palettes and statement pieces, redefining the landscape of men’s fashion. His work has redefined what red carpet dressing looks like, ensuring that his clients are always at the forefront of modern style. In addition to styling, he has expanded his influence through a Netflix series, Styling Hollywood, where he showcases his expertise and creative process. Bolden’s influence continues to grow, proving that great style is about confidence, precision, and vision.
8. Petra Flannery – The Mastermind Behind Effortless Elegance
Petra Flannery is one of Hollywood’s most respected stylists, known for working with stars such as Emma Stone, Reese Witherspoon, and Zoe Saldana. Her styling is defined by a polished yet effortless elegance, making her a go-to for actresses who want to balance glamour with sophistication. Flannery has an eye for modern minimalism, often dressing her clients in sleek silhouettes, neutral palettes, and understated statement pieces. She understands how to highlight an individual’s personality through fashion without overshadowing them with excessive styling. Her ability to create timeless red carpet-moments has made her a fixture in the industry.
One of her standout moments was styling Emma Stone in a golden Givenchy gown when she won the Oscar for La La Land, a look that perfectly encapsulated Old Hollywood meets modern-day glamour. She also plays a key role in curating off-duty styles for her clients, ensuring they look effortlessly chic both on and off the red carpet. Beyond fashion, she has built strong relationships with designers, helping bridge the gap between celebrities and luxury fashion houses. Her approach proves that great styling isn’t just about the clothes—it’s about crafting a full image that enhances a person’s presence. Flannery’s expertise in balancing classic and contemporary elements continues to make her a leading force in Hollywood styling.
9. Elizabeth Stewart – The Stylist Who Shapes Hollywood’s Biggest Fashion Icons
Elizabeth Stewart is one of the most powerful stylists in Hollywood, dressing some of the biggest names, including Julia Roberts, Cate Blanchett, and Sandra Bullock. Her styling is best described as regal and sophisticated, with a focus on timeless elegance. She has a deep understanding of fashion history, often pulling inspiration from classic silhouettes while incorporating modern trends. Stewart’s ability to create refined yet daring looks has made her a favorite for high-profile events like the Oscars, Cannes Film Festival, and the Met Gala. She is known for dressing her clients in bold colors, structured gowns, and unexpected fashion choices that always make a statement.
What sets Stewart apart is her long-term collaborations with some of Hollywood’s most iconic women. She has worked with Julia Roberts for over a decade, crafting an image that balances relaxed confidence with high fashion. Her work with Cate Blanchett has led to some of the most fashion-forward red-carpet moments of the past decade, including dramatic couture gowns and avant-garde silhouettes. Stewart is not just a stylist; she is a strategic image-maker who understands how to elevate a celebrity’s public persona through fashion. Her influence on modern Hollywood glamour is undeniable, and she continues to shape the red carpet landscape.
10. Erin Walsh – The Visionary Behind Today’s Chicest Looks
Erin Walsh is known for her modern, sleek, and effortlessly chic approach to styling. She has worked with celebrities such as Anne Hathaway, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Thandiwe Newton, creating looks that feel both timeless and contemporary. Walsh’s styling often includes clean lines, vibrant colors, and well-tailored pieces that complement her clients’ personalities. She has a keen eye for balancing drama with subtlety, making sure that fashion enhances rather than overshadows. Her ability to create looks that feel sophisticated yet playful has made her one of the most in-demand stylists today.
One of her most memorable moments was dressing Anne Hathaway in a striking Valentino pink ensemble, which showcased the actress’s ability to reinvent herself through fashion. Walsh believes in the power of fashion as a tool for storytelling, ensuring that every outfit reflects the mood, energy, and confidence of the wearer. She is also a strong advocate for sustainable fashion, frequently working with brands that emphasize ethical practices. Her refreshing take on modern style, combined with her deep understanding of what makes a look truly iconic, has solidified her reputation. Walsh continues to shape the industry, proving that style is about more than just clothes—it’s about attitude, presence, and authenticity.
From the refined glamour of Micaela Erlanger to the bold creativity of Law Roach and the modern elegance of Erin Walsh, today’s top stylists continue to shape the ever-evolving world of fashion. Each of these experts has redefined what it means to be stylish, pushing boundaries while respecting the essence of their clients. The role of a stylist has grown from simply picking outfits to crafting entire fashion identities that influence red carpets, magazine covers, and social media trends. These professionals ensure that celebrities don’t just wear clothes but tell a story through every outfit. As fashion continues to evolve, these stylists will remain at the forefront, defining what it means to be truly iconic in today’s world.
