It was by pure chance that Dani Butchart fell into the styling world. Working at fashion label, Fleur Wood for almost eight years, it was her role as creative producer across the Fleur Wood book series that laid the foundation for her career as a stylist.
“I was always crafty and creative, however I didn’t realise straight away that it was worth pursuing as a serious job rather than a hobby,” explains Dani. “I was fortunate to work on countless styling jobs at Fleur Wood, mentored by some of the all-stars in the industry. Then, when I got to produce Food Fashion Love (Fleur’s 2014 book), in which I was styling and creating vignettes, it all clicked into place.”
With her passion well and truly alive, Dani enrolled in a Certificate IV in Design and a Diploma of Interior Decoration, Styling and Colour at iscd; believing the experience would tighten up her skill set and help her find her aesthetic. “iscd was an excellent platform to gain confidence in my craft. It was such a great course full of practical information to get moving into the industry. It really brought out my creative juices and aligned me and my ability.”
Graduating in 2012, Dani now runs her own multi disciplinary practice, where she works across interiors, installations and events. Having partnered with premium Australian brands such as Inside Out, Elle Australia and iscd, her biggest styling achievement came when she took out the top prize at Inside Out’s 2015 Search for a Stylist competition. “I was thrilled to be involved and over the moon when editor-in-chief Claire Bradley called to tell me the news!”
With a national accolade and diploma in her back pocket, Dani has quickly become a recognised name in the local styling world. So what would be her advice for any budding stylists? “Start assisting many stylists on an assortment of jobs. There are so many different layers of styling, whether it is food, lifestyle, fashion, homewares, still life, editorial, interiors or creative events. And there are so many clever stylists in Sydney, which leaves the door open for many opportunities for debut stylists. Go with your gut and start to establish your style.”