The evolution of celebrity styling leading up to the 2024 Golden Globes.

On January 5th, the eyes of the world will be on the 82nd annual Golden Globe Awards, an event that marks the beginning of a new awards season in Hollywood. This year, the red carpet will witness the stunning looks that the stars will wear. However, behind each dazzling outfit lies months of hard work by a team of professionals. Among them, Kate Young, recognized as the Best Stylist at the WWD 2025 Style Awards, plays a key role in creating memorable moments in celebrity fashion. Young has been at the top of celebrity styling for over two decades and has worked with some of the most iconic figures in the industry, including Julianne Moore, Scarlett Johansson, and Dakota Johnson. In a recent interview, she shared how the styling industry has evolved since she began her career in 2010. In the early days, many celebrities did not have stylists, and wardrobe choices often depended on buying a dress or the work of a costume designer. However, the situation has changed dramatically. Today, styling has become a full-time profession, where stylists not only work on the red carpet but also get involved in press tours and social media. Young emphasized that brands now have dedicated public relations teams to collaborate with stylists in creating complete looks, something that did not exist in the early years of her career. This collaborative approach allows stylists to plan ahead, often starting months before major events like the Golden Globes. According to Young, the complexity of the Golden Globes lies in the fact that they are held at the end of a fashion season. With haute couture shows scheduled after the awards, there is a constant challenge to find dresses that are both relevant and innovative. This becomes a race against time, as stylists try to present something new and exciting on the red carpet, while unused dresses from previous seasons often end up being the most viable options. The relationship between celebrities and designers has also evolved. Young emphasizes that there is now a focus on partnerships between brands and talents, where celebrities are not just ambassadors, but also influence fashion through their personal style. This has led to fashion moments on the red carpet becoming visual marketing opportunities. Young sees herself as part of that marketing team, helping to create a recognizable visual image for her clients. One of the most important aspects Young mentions is photography. In an era where social media and images are shared instantly, it is essential for an outfit to look good not only in person but also in photos. "Reality versus a photograph are two totally different things," explains Young, highlighting the importance of considering how a dress will look from all angles, not just at the event itself. The technique of "thematic dressing" has also gained popularity, where actors dress thematically to promote films. Although Young has used this technique, she confesses that it is complicated for her, as her approach focuses on authenticity and highlighting the essence of each client. This is what sets her apart in a world where costumes and exaggerated concepts often prevail. However, not everything is glamour and success in a stylist's life. Young recalls a heartbreaking moment in her career 20 years ago when a dress for the Golden Globes did not fit properly. The creative and quick solution she found to save the situation is a reminder that the industry is also full of unexpected challenges that require ingenuity and experience. In her work, Young strives to capture the essence of her clients, creating looks that reflect not only their personal style but also their cultural context. She steers away from a standardized approach to styling, preferring to highlight the individuality of each woman she dresses. "There is no one-size-fits-all style," she asserts. This person-centered approach is what has made her one of the most respected stylists in the industry. In the coming years, Young will continue to play a fundamental role in celebrity fashion, with ongoing film projects and collaborations. Her love for fashion and her commitment to the art of styling are evident in every choice she makes, focusing on what is relevant and exciting in today’s landscape. As she prepares for the upcoming awards season, fashion followers will be keenly watching what Young and her clients will present on the red carpet.