Behind every successful runway show, red carpet event, and TV appearance, there is a stylist backstage, pulling new looks and brainstorming ideas for the next event, season, or private showing in their city. Whether they are starting out, have a big clientele, or are aspiring to pursue a career in fashion, styling is everywhere and anywhere. With seasons coming and going (award season and fashion weeks around the corner), here are four stylists to remember in the upcoming months.

Kim Russell, recognized as one of Vogue’s favorite social media accounts, is a fashion historian and stylist. She began styling looks in Polyvore and creating her own edits of celebrities in archive fashion pieces in 2022. With fashion memes and knowledge in vintage designer pieces, She is set to become a favorite stylist. Known on “High Fashion” Twitter as the next up-and-coming stylist of our generation, Kim's passion for the fashion industry is noticeable and applauded. With her client book starting with Cindy Kimberly and Sabrina Elba, the young stylist is set to be the next big moment in fashion.

Kim Russell / @thekimbino

Russell began her Polyvore journey when the app was popular and trending. She gained immediate popularity and grew on Instagram. Over the years, she has gained momentum for her funny memes and archive fashion knowledge, which many do not know about.

Not only does she focus on private client styling, but she has also assisted and debuted her styling works at the Cannes Festival and helped with visual research for TEMS' Met Gala look. Based in Sydney, Australia, her location has not stopped her from making strides in the fashion industry in New York City and, more recently, London, as she assisted Vogue World.

With a future bright and promising, we can't wait to see her next plans and how she will continue to change the fashion industry.

Francisco J. Rondon @franciscojrondon

Known for his styling and creative campaigns, Francisco J Rondon is a young Latino creative breaking boundaries by dressing none other than superstar Danna Paola. Based in Mexico City, the young stylist is at the height of his career. With archive pulls, creative direction, and a superstar team, Rondon is set for more in 2024. He is the mastermind behind Danna’s most iconic looks, editorials, and tour concepts.

Photo on the left and right via @danna on Instagram

Styling since 2016, his love for styling grows in different aesthetics and eras. Finding his voice and presenting it on his creative projects, he has worked in Nike campaigns and contributed to music films that have been recognized by the Cannes Film Festival and much more. His storytelling and creative vision haven't been seen in a while in the music industry. Not afraid to bring his ideas to life and to set standards, Francisco is another stylist influencing many within his communities who do not feel represented or seen. He continues to grow and share his passion. We can't wait to see what he does next and which project he decides to share with the world.

Katie Qian @katieqian

Katie Qian, a Los Angeles native and University of California alumna, is a renowned stylist known for dressing superstars such as Tyla, Conan Gray, Avantika Vandanapu, and more. Influencing the new generation of fashion enthusiasts, you might recognize her work from Tyla's recent memorable Hourglass Look for the 2024 Met Gala or Conan Gray’s album cover.

Tyla shot by Dimitrios Kambouris for Getty Images, Conan Gray shot by Elizaveta Porodina

She has collaborated with popular brands such as Nike, Puma, and Guess, and has worked on editorial shoots for publications such as Paper Magazine, Vogue, and Wonderland Magazine. Recently, she styled pop sensation and Grammy winner Tyla for the 2024 Met Gala. With a look made from sand, the stylist and designer Oliver Rousteing brought to life a look that represented the garden of time, as well as the exhibit “Sleeping Beauty.”

Qian, recognized for her ability to push boundaries and challenge artists' comfort zones, aims to increase representation within the Asian community. She has been named one of the CFDA's top emerging stylists and has been interviewed by Billboard about her upcoming projects and her contributions to the fashion community. Representing a first-generation upbringing and Asian heritage, Qian serves as an inspiration for others who are also the first in their families to enter the industry. A fresh voice uplifting and breaking records, Qian has continued to grow and execute ideas that many others have not thought of. As fashion week approaches, we can't wait to see what the stylist has in store for us.

Jaewook Kim @keemjwook

Jaewook Kim, the co-creative director for KNC Studios, is an established stylist based in South Korea who has more than five years of experience in editorial and day-to-day styling. He has been the creative force behind many K-pop idols' covers, tours, and editorials. In collaboration with Bora Choi, the team aims to bring new ideas and storytelling to the people with whom they work. Their client list includes popular groups and artists such as CL, Itzy, Stray Kids, and IVE. They are recognized for their out-of-the-box ideas in creative direction.

Stray kids photo via JYP Entertainment, XG Photo credit: XGALX

Jaewook Kim and KNC Studios have created many memorable moments with the artists with whom they collaborate. There is constant praise on various social media platforms and in real life. The stylist's innovative concepts and integration of different silhouettes, fabrics, and textures bring a fresh perspective to the designers and brands with whom they collaborate, enhancing the overall outcome of the shoot. The stylist primarily focuses on their work in South Korea but he also travels internationally to stay up-to-date on new trends and brands. As their artistic ideas continue to evolve and bring about change, we eagerly anticipate seeing them in America soon, styling for an award show or album cover.

Excited for their future and continuous success in the fashion industry, these stylists are breaking stereotypes and inspiring new stylists to pursue the careers of their dreams. As 2024 rolls into the busiest months in fashion, we can't wait to see how these creative individuals express their ideas. Follow them along as many prepare for tours, comeback seasons with artists, and red-carpet events in the biggest cities of the world.

Article by Citlalli Esquivel, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine
Tearsheets by Daniel López, Art Director, PhotoBook Magazine

The Big Four, Stylists Shaping Tomorrow's Fashion Trends