There are many professionals who work behind the scenes to create the stylish and glamorous veneer that is fashion. These people deserve recognition too, so I'm pleased to share a small interview and the work of Juliana Schiavinatto, fashion stylist represented by Toronto's Plutino Group.

What is a stylist exactly? Here's a description of their job role:

A fashion stylist is hired by advertising agencies, magazines, production companies, celebrities, photographers, and record companies for advertising campaigns, fashion shows, TV shows, commercials, catalogues, public appearances, concert performances, and music videos.

The fashion stylist selects the look for each project based on the client's needs and either buys or borrows clothing and accessories directly from designer showrooms and stores. Fashion styling is more that just selecting an outfit and putting it together - they need to have a deep understanding of current and future fashion trends, a great eye when it comes to proportion and silhouette, and be extremely resourceful in tracking down hard-to-find items.

Top fashion stylists are very influential when it comes to trend setting - perfect example is Patricia Field from Sex and the City and how her styling of those ladies influenced personal style.

With style influencers being more in the spotlight than ever, the general public is more aware of the career of a fashion stylist, but not everyone can do it - you need to have a natural sense of style, be personable and flexible.*

And now on to the interview....

What are you currently working on?

Currently I'm working on pulling together a couple of fashion editorials, one with an African/Safari theme and the other with a boho-hippie feel.

What's the best piece of advice you've received about the job of the stylist?

Trust your intuition. It's your best asset as a stylist.

What are you plans for the future?

I'd love to do some major traveling for some fresh inspiration. I love contributing to different magazines as I do now, but in the future I'd like to run a fashion magazine myself as well as own a few side fashion businesses.

What is your definition of style?

Being confident in your own skin and developing a personal style that reflects who you are and that works for your body, lifestyle and doesn't only revolve around trends.

How do you describe your personal style?

My personal style is a little raw, effortless, modern and a bit hard edged.

What do you think are the hot trends for spring 2008?

Bright and sorbet like colours; exciting bold prints from floral to ethnic; hippie chic fluidity; translucent and sheer detailing.

Favourite designers?

Nicolas Ghesquiere at Balenciaga, Christopher Bailey at Burberry, Azzedine Alaia, Ann Demeulemeester, Karl Lagerfeld, Ennio Capasa at Costume National, Dries Van Noten.

*definition provided by Gail McInnes Plutino Group. Photos courtesy of the Plutino Group.