Top 10 Visual Stylist Certifications

Certifications are important for visual stylists in the job market because they demonstrate to employers that a stylist has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their job successfully. They also provide evidence of a stylist's commitment to professionalism, as well as their dedication to staying up-to-date on industry trends and techniques. Certifications can help visual stylists stand out from the competition and give them an edge when applying for jobs. Additionally, having credentials from recognized organizations can help expand a visual stylist's network of contacts, leading to more opportunities for work.

The article reviews some of the top certifications for Visual Stylists and explains how they can help enhance a visual stylist's career.

What are Visual Stylist Certifications?

Visual stylist certification is a professional certification program for individuals who specialize in the use of visual elements to create aesthetically pleasing and effective design solutions. It is designed to provide visual stylists with the skills, knowledge, and understanding needed to create visually stunning designs that are both functional and appealing.

Visual stylists are responsible for the overall look and feel of a product or service. They combine elements such as typefaces, images, colors, textures, shapes, and more to create an aesthetically pleasing design that conveys a message or story. Visual styling can be used in various industries such as advertising, fashion, interior design, web design, graphic design, photography and much more.

The certification provides visual stylists with the necessary tools to create meaningful visuals that capture attention and evoke emotion. It also helps them understand how to effectively communicate ideas through visuals while adhering to industry-specific standards and guidelines. Additionally, it helps them develop their creative problem solving skills so they can come up with innovative solutions for their clients’ needs.

Overall, visual stylist certification can help individuals become more competent professionals in the field of visual styling. With this certification under their belt, they will be able to better understand the fundamentals of creating visually stunning designs as well as have a better understanding of how to effectively communicate messages through visuals. This will ultimately help them stand out among other designers in this competitive field and give them more opportunities for success.

Pro Tip: When considering a visual stylist certification, research the program you are interested in to ensure it provides comprehensive training and is recognized by industry professionals. Additionally, look for programs that offer hands-on experience and apprenticeships so you can gain real-world experience in the field.

Related: What does a Visual Stylist do?

Top 10 Visual Stylist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Visual Stylists today.

1. Certified Image Consultant (CIC)

A Certified Image Consultant (CIC) is a professional who has been trained and certified in the art of image consulting. Image consultants help individuals and organizations to develop their personal or corporate image through clothing, grooming, etiquette, body language, and communication skills.

It typically takes between six months to two years to become a Certified Image Consultant (CIC). The process includes completing an accredited training program from an approved school or institute, passing a certification exam, and meeting the experience requirements set forth by the certifying organization.

To become a Certified Image Consultant (CIC), you must first complete an accredited training program from an approved school or institute. These programs typically include courses on topics such as fashion history, wardrobe planning, color analysis, body language, communication skills, and etiquette. After completing the required coursework, you must then pass a certification exam administered by the certifying organization. Once you have passed this exam and met all other requirements set forth by the certifying organization, you will be awarded your CIC certification.

The cost of becoming a Certified Image Consultant (CIC) varies depending on the school or institute that provides your training program and the certifying organization you choose to go through for your certification exam. Generally speaking though, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$10,000 USD to become certified.

2. Certified Professional Image Consultant (CPIC)

A Certified Professional Image Consultant (CPIC) is a professional who provides advice on how to create and maintain a positive image. They provide guidance on topics such as wardrobe, makeup, body language, communication skills, and etiquette. CPICs help individuals enhance their physical appearance in order to create an impactful first impression.

In order to become a CPIC, you must complete an accredited certification program. The length of the program varies depending on the school or institution offering it, but typically takes around three months to one year to complete. The program includes courses in color analysis, body language, wardrobe styling, personal branding and more.

The cost of the certification program varies by school or institution as well. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere from $2,000-$10,000 for the entire certification process.

Once you have completed the required coursework and passed all necessary exams and assessments, you will be awarded your CPIC credential. This credential is recognized worldwide and will give you access to a variety of job opportunities in the field of image consulting.

3. Certified Fashion Stylist (CFS)

A Certified Fashion Stylist (CFS) is a professional who has been trained and certified to provide fashion advice, styling services, and product recommendations to clients. The CFS certification program is offered by the International Association of Image Consultants (IAIC). It requires completion of a comprehensive course of study that covers topics such as color analysis, body type analysis, wardrobe planning, personal shopping, and more.

The CFS certification process takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, students must complete an online course consisting of 16 modules covering topics such as color theory, body type analysis, wardrobe planning, personal shopping, and more. Once the course is completed successfully, students must pass a final exam in order to receive their certification.

To become certified as a CFS, you must first register with the IAIC website. You will then be required to pay the registration fee which varies depending on whether or not you are an IAIC member. After registering with the IAIC website and paying the registration fee, you will be able to access the online course material for your CFS certification program.

The cost of becoming a Certified Fashion Stylist (CFS) varies depending on whether or not you are an IAIC member. For non-members it typically costs around $400 USD for registration plus the cost of any additional materials needed for your studies. For IAIC members it typically costs around $250 USD for registration plus any additional materials needed for your studies.

4. Certified Personal Stylist (CPS)

A Certified Personal Stylist (CPS) is a professional who helps clients select clothing, accessories and other items that are most flattering for their body type and lifestyle. They are trained to help clients create a wardrobe that reflects their personal style and enhances their self-confidence.

It typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to become a Certified Personal Stylist. To become certified, individuals must complete an accredited program offered by a recognized institution or organization. This program includes courses in fashion history, trends, styling techniques, color theory, body shape analysis, wardrobe planning, and more. Additionally, some programs may require students to complete an internship or practicum in order to gain hands-on experience in the field.

The cost of becoming a Certified Personal Stylist varies depending on the program chosen. Generally speaking, the cost can range from $500-$2,000 USD for tuition and materials.

Once certified, CPSs can offer their services through personal styling sessions with individual clients or through larger events such as fashion shows or trunk shows. Additionally, they may work as independent contractors for companies or stores offering personal styling services.

5. Professional Wardrobe Stylist Certification (PWSC)

Professional Wardrobe Stylist Certification (PWSC) is a certification program designed to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful wardrobe stylist. This certification is offered by the Professional Association of Image Consultants International (PAICI).

The program consists of three courses: Introduction to Wardrobe Styling, Advanced Wardrobe Styling and Professional Practice. Each course takes approximately four weeks to complete and can be taken online or in-person. The courses cover topics such as color theory, body shape analysis, fabric selection, styling techniques, personal shopping and more. Upon completion of all three courses, students will receive their PWSC certification.

The cost for the PWSC program varies depending on the course format chosen (online or in-person). For example, the online version costs $599 USD while the in-person version costs $1,199 USD. The cost also includes access to a private Facebook group where students can ask questions and get feedback from experienced wardrobe stylists.

Overall, the PWSC certification provides aspiring wardrobe stylists with an opportunity to gain professional training and credentials in order to pursue a career in this field.

6. American Academy of Image Consultants Certification (AAIC)

The American Academy of Image Consultants (AAIC) Certification is a professional certification program for image consultants. It is an internationally recognized certification program that provides image consultants with the knowledge, skills and credentials needed to become successful in their field.

The AAIC Certification Program consists of three levels: Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3. Each level requires the completion of a series of courses and exams. The courses cover topics such as wardrobe consulting, color analysis, body language, communication techniques and more. Upon successful completion of all three levels, candidates are awarded the AAIC Certified Image Consultant (CIC) designation.

The amount of time it takes to complete the AAIC Certification Program depends on the individual's commitment to studying and completing coursework. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 6 months to a year or more to complete all three levels depending on how much time you have available to dedicate to studying and completing coursework.

In order to get started on your journey towards becoming an AAIC Certified Image Consultant (CIC), you must first register for the program by submitting an application form along with payment for the registration fee. Once accepted into the program, you will be provided with access to online learning materials and resources which will help guide you through each level of the certification process.

The cost of obtaining AAIC Certification varies depending on which level you are applying for; however, typically it ranges from $200-$500 per level plus any additional fees associated with taking exams or purchasing study materials.

7. International Association of Image Consultants Certification (IAIC)

The International Association of Image Consultants (IAIC) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved the highest level of competency in the field of image consulting. This certification is designed to provide recognition for those who have demonstrated mastery of the skills, knowledge, and abilities necessary to become successful image consultants.

The IAIC Certification program consists of three levels: Certified Image Consultant (CIC), Advanced Certified Image Consultant (ACIC), and Master Certified Image Consultant (MCIC). Each level requires a different amount of experience and education, as well as passing an exam.

To become certified at any level, applicants must first submit an application and fee to the IAIC. The application includes information about their background in the field, including educational qualifications, work experience, and other relevant qualifications. After submitting the application, applicants must take an exam that covers topics such as color analysis, wardrobe styling, makeup artistry, public speaking, body language analysis, fashion trends analysis and more.

Once applicants pass the exam they will receive their certification from the IAIC. The cost for each level varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD per level. It usually takes around 3-6 months to complete all three levels depending on how quickly you can complete the required coursework and exams.

8. Certified Visual Merchandising Professional (CVMP)

Certified Visual Merchandising Professional (CVMP) is a certification offered by the International Visual Merchandising Institute (IVMI). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in visual merchandising. This certification is ideal for those working in retail, fashion, and design industries.

To become certified as a CVMP, you must first complete an IVMI-approved training program or course. The length of these courses vary depending on the provider, but typically range from 6-12 weeks. After completing the course, you must pass an exam administered by IVMI to receive your certification.

The cost of becoming a CVMP varies depending on the provider and may include tuition fees, materials costs, and exam fees. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2000 to become certified as a CVMP.

Once you have received your certification, you can use it to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in visual merchandising to employers and clients. It also serves as recognition that you are committed to staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

9. Certified Color Analysis Specialist (CCAS)

Certified Color Analysis Specialist (CCAS) is a professional certification program designed to help individuals become experts in the field of color analysis. The program is offered by the International Association of Professional Color Analysts (IAPCA). It is a comprehensive training and certification program that teaches individuals how to accurately assess and recommend colors for clothing, makeup, and accessories based on an individual’s skin tone, hair color, eye color, and other physical characteristics.

The CCAS certification requires completion of a three-day workshop and passing an exam. During the workshop, students learn about the fundamentals of color theory and analysis; how to identify skin tones, hair colors, and eye colors; how to use various tools to determine which colors are most flattering for each individual; and how to apply makeup according to the principles of color analysis.

In order to become certified as a CCAS, individuals must complete all three days of the workshop and pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher. Upon successful completion of the coursework and exam, they will receive their official CCAS certificate.

The cost of becoming certified as a CCAS varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2000 USD.

10. Certified Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist (CMHS).

Certified Makeup Artist and Hair Stylist (CMHS) is a professional certification program offered by the Professional Beauty Association (PBA). It is designed to provide makeup artists and hair stylists with the necessary skills and knowledge to work in the beauty industry. The program includes training in makeup application, hair styling, product knowledge, sanitation and safety, customer service, business management and other related topics.

The CMHS certification requires completion of an approved course or program of study that includes at least 150 hours of instruction. This can be completed through a combination of online courses, seminars, workshops or hands-on classes. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass an exam to receive their certification.

To become certified as a CMHS, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least two years of experience in the beauty industry or having completed a PBA-approved cosmetology program. Applicants must also have a valid cosmetology license from their state board of barbers or cosmetologists.

The cost for becoming certified as a CMHS varies depending on the type of course taken and whether it is done online or in person. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,000 for online programs and up to $3,000 for more comprehensive in-person programs.

Once certified as a CMHS, professionals are eligible to use the designation after their name when advertising their services and may be eligible for discounts on products from PBA member companies such as Paul Mitchell and Redken.

Do You Really Need a Visual Stylist Certificate?

In today's competitive job market, having a certificate in visual styling can be a valuable asset. Visual styling is an important skill for those looking to break into the fashion and retail industries, as well as any field related to marketing and design. A certificate in visual styling can demonstrate that you have the knowledge and skills necessary to create attractive visuals that will draw customers in and help you stand out from other applicants.

The good news is that there are several online courses available that offer certification in visual styling so you don't have to enroll at a college or university to get certified. These courses cover topics such as graphic design, color theory, composition, typography, product photography and more. Taking these courses can give you a comprehensive understanding of the principles of visual styling so you can craft visuals that are effective and aesthetically pleasing.

In addition to helping your resume stand out from other applicants, having certification in visual styling can also help when applying for jobs or internships with companies who specialize in this area. Companies want their employees to know how to create visuals that will grab customers' attention and make them want to purchase their products or services. Having a certificate shows employers that you understand the basics of creating visually appealing images and designs.

Overall, getting certified in visual styling may not be necessary for everyone but it could certainly be beneficial if you're interested in pursuing a career in fashion or retail design. The certification provides proof of your knowledge of visual styling which can make all the difference when it comes time for employers to choose between applicants. Plus, taking the courses gives you an opportunity to gain valuable experience working with different types of visuals which could come in handy down the road when creating your own designs or working on projects for clients.

Related: Visual Stylist Resume Examples

FAQs About Visual Stylist Certifications

1. What is a Visual Stylist Certification?

Answer: A Visual Stylist Certification is a professional designation that certifies individuals who have the necessary knowledge and skills to understand and create visual representations of clothing, accessories, makeup, and other fashion elements.

2. How do I become certified as a Visual Stylist?

Answer: To become certified as a Visual Stylist, you must complete an accredited program or course in fashion styling and merchandising. Additionally, some employers may require certification from specific organizations such as the Association of Image Consultants International (AICI).

3. What are the benefits of becoming a Certified Visual Stylist?

Answer: Becoming a Certified Visual Stylist provides numerous benefits including increased job opportunities, higher salaries, and greater recognition in the field. Additionally, being certified demonstrates your commitment to professionalism and expertise in the industry.

4. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time required to become certified varies depending on the program or course you choose to pursue. Typically, it can take anywhere from 3-6 months of studying for exams and completing coursework before achieving certification status.

5. Is there an exam I need to pass in order to be certified?

Answer: Yes, most programs require you to pass an exam in order to earn certification as a Visual Stylist. These exams usually cover topics such as fashion styling principles, color theory, wardrobe analysis techniques, marketing strategies for stylists, etc.