Between the lights, glamour and designer threads, hair stylists from all over come together twice a year for New York Fashion Week. While styling models for their runway marches can be both dreamy and exhilarating—for Scott J stylist Jennifer Covington-Bowers, it’s her side hustle.
We sat down with Jennifer to chat about her NYFW experience and hear her advice to stylists pursuing fashion shows, too.
Q: How did you get involved in styling for the runway?
A: I always have had an interest in fashion, and started doing some Aveda fashion shows when I was an assistant with Scott J. I decided to actively pursue it over the last few years and began focusing on that aspect of my career.
Q: What fashion shows have you styled for?
A: I’ve been fortunate to have worked on Kanye West’s Yeezy Season 3, Ralph Lauren, Naeem Khan, Carolina Herrera and others.
Q: What was your favorite show and why?
A: This past season, I loved Naeem Khan. The hair was really beautiful with custom, hand-sewn flowers they created for us to use.
Q: You recently styled for Carolina Herrera’s show, can you talk about the look created for that collection?
A: The lead stylist, Odile Gilbert, kept the look clean, polished and uniform to complement the clothes.
Q: What advice would you give to stylists who are about to work their first fashion show?
A: Enjoy the process! Don’t stress out. We work in a profession where the more you do it, the better you become. Your skills can constantly improve and evolve.
Q: What advice would you give to young stylists who aspire to work for fashion shows?
A: Practice all the time and be prepared to work hard. Surround yourself with other aspiring artists.
Q: What do you love most about styling for runway shows?
A: The teamwork. I’ve had the chance to work with hair artists from all over the world, and
I love to surround myself with people who are at the top of their craft—it helps me elevate my skills and stay inspired. Boundaries are only the invisible walls you create for yourself! The expansion of your craft can be limitless.
Keep up with all of Jennifer’s styling gigs on her Instagram—or come say hi to her at Scott J!