Visual Communications Alumnus Daniel Musto is only 26 years old, but he's already a stylist phenom whose latest project is styling the runway shows for contestants on the hit NBC TV show Fashion Star. In our latest interview, you'll get a peek at how this incredibly talented stylist launched his stellar career.
What is a typical day like?
1. Wake up after little sleep to a ton of emails from clients, my publicist, and my manager. Attempt to answer them with one eye open.
2. Text Mom to say good morning and tell her I love her.
3. Get ready quickly, because I never set my alarm with anticipation of all my morning emails.
4. Decide whether I want to be a sneakers guy or boots guy for the day.
5. Grab a Kombucha.
6. Hit the road, with my bluetooth ready for the car.
7. Take care of what I need to do for my clients: pulling, shopping, fittings, meetings, etc. Every day is different. One day I could be on set for 16 hours shooting Fashion Star for NBC. Another day I could be in and out of publicity meetings with magazines, blogs, and other media outlets. Other days I somehow do both.
7. Make sure I have met my deadlines for the articles I write daily and weekly for places like CocoPerez, HollywoodLife, Huffington Post, LadyPlusBaby, and more.... oh, and my critiques for UsWeekly's Fashion Police.
8. A few times a week I will attend an event for a media powerhouse like Nylon Magazine or UsWeekly. I walk the red carpet, get some photos taken, and than chat with all the rag-mags about what I think is hot right now.
9. Attempt to catch up on all the texts that have come in for my personal life, which is fun as I will typically have a cocktail in me from the event.
10. Crawl into bed, watch some Chelsea Lately on my DVR, and fall asleep... just to have nightmares about the stress of the following day!
How did you decide that FIDM was right for you?
Coming from the East Coast, I debated going to school in Manhattan, but realized that my love for the Entertainment Industry was as strong as my love for the Fashion Industry. I figured I would marry the two. They make a sexy couple.
How did you choose your major?
Well, at first I studied Fashion Design at FIDM. I went home in tears every day because I was all thumbs when it came to pattern-making and sewing. I met with an Advisor at FIDM (and a therapist) and decided to switch to Visual Communications. I felt much more at home there and was able to breathe easy, knowing that I was fully capable of excelling.
What sort of internships/work did you do while you were going to FIDM?
I interned as a dresser for a fashion show once for stylists Joey & T, when they had their clothing line. I also worked in the New Mart in a wholesale accessories showroom for an amazing boss, where I learned exactly how the merchandise finds its way into retail stores. It wasn't my passion, but I learned essential lessons during the eight months I spent there.
What was your first job after graduating?
Within six months of graduating I was dressing Paula Abdul for American Idol and other appearances, as well as consulting on her QVC jewelry line. It whipped me into shape REAL quick!
How has what you learned at FIDM prepared you for your career?
I think the most important thing I learned at FIDM was how to complete projects in groups made entirely of creative people. Most FIDM Students come from high schools where they stood out as one of few creative students. At FIDM, all the creatives are under the same roof. It is extremely important to "play well with others," especially other people like yourself.
If you could give any advice to students at FIDM, what would it be?
Help each other. No one makes it far in life by keeping things for themselves. Every time the universe gifts you an amazing opportunity, find a way to share it with others. Get jobs for your friends. Give advice to your coworkers. Introduce your peers to the amazing people you meet. The world works in your favor when you do favors for others.
Follow Daniel on Twitter at @DanielRMusto.
