What’s In My Stylist Kit: Essentials for Every Set

By Amy Davis | San Diego-Based Commercial Stylist

Over the years, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the tools and items that never leave my stylist kit. These are the behind-the-scenes essentials that keep me prepared for any curveballs that may come my way—whether I’m styling a branding shoot, magazine cover, or commercial production. These are the tools that make the difference between a smooth shoot and a stressful one. 

You can find most of these items at The Container Store, Amazon, Target, or Manhattan Wardrobe Supply.

Here’s a peek inside my stylist kit:

The Key Components:

• A carry-all bag with plenty of pockets

  I use a Morphe clear plastic zippered makeup artist bag—visibility and organization are key.

• Photography spring clamps

  I keep 5–10 small light-duty clamps on hand for most garments, and 1–4 heavy-duty clamps specifically for wedding dresses or heavier items.

• Double-sided fashion tape

  My favorite is from Vapon: Topstick Men’s Clear Double-Sided Grooming Tape. I carry both the 1" x 3" and ½" x 3" sizes. Everyone should have this in their kit.

• Safety pins

  A variety of sizes and colors is a must.

• Scissors

  For cutting away loose threads, tags, and making quick repairs.

• A seam ripper

  Great for opening sewn pockets or removing tags cleanly.

• Sewing kits with pre-threaded needles

  Because no stylist wants to thread a needle under pressure.

• Adjustable hem tape

• Hooks, eyes, and snaps

  Always a good idea to keep on hand in a variety of sizes.

• Micro Stitch Kit

  Ideal for quick clothing repairs, especially during time-sensitive shoots.

• Jewelry repair tools

• Superglue (like Krazy Glue)

  For fast, on-the-spot fixes.

• Zipper-Ease lubricant stick

• Sharpies and pens

  Especially helpful for coloring in scuffed shoes or touching up details.

• Collar extenders and stays

  These increase collar size and prevent curling.

• Fun-Tak

  Helps keep small accessories and jewelry in place for photography.

• Static Guard

  To prevent clothing from clinging—an absolute staple.

• Makeup protector hoods (Betty Dain brand)

  These protect hair and makeup from transferring onto clothes during wardrobe changes.

• Quality clothing brush

  A high-quality brush removes dirt, dust, and debris quickly and cleanly.

• Hat foam

  Especially helpful for resizing hats on set.

• First Aid Kit

  Mine is stocked with the basics: bandages, medical tape, ibuprofen, and antibacterial ointments.

Shoe and Foot Supplies:

• Shoehorn

• Shoeshine kit

• Insoles

• Painter’s tape (to protect shoe soles)

• Quick-shine sponge

• Blister pads

• Band-Aids

Cleaning Supplies:

• Lint roller or brush (to remove fuzz from clothing)

• Spot cleaning wipes (to quickly remove stains)

• Janie Stick (for absorbing and removing oily stains)

• Alcohol wipes (for sanitizing accessories)

• Travel wet wipes (to spot clean or remove makeup)

• Glass cleaning kit (spray and cloth)

• Variety of horsehair brushes

Pro Tip: Always get the details of the nearest dry cleaner. You never know when you’ll need emergency dry cleaning on a job.

Shapewear Staples

Always keep a small, varied selection of shapewear in your kit. Here are my top recommendations for the best shapewear to cater to all your styling needs, including full-coverage underwear, bras, bralettes, supportive slips, and more.

• Skims Sculpting Bodysuits

  Known for ultra-smoothing effects and inclusive sizing—great for waist and tummy contouring for events or red carpets.

• Honeylove SuperPower Shorts

  A favorite for tummy control. The crisscross panels help define the waist and create an hourglass shape.

• Spanx Shapewear

  A longtime leader in shapewear. I love their Invisible Mid-Thigh Shorts—they’re lightweight, breathable, and comfortable under most garments.

• Truekind Supportive Comfort Wireless Shaping Bra

  Seamless support with a natural lift. A reliable option for creating flattering silhouettes during long shoots.

• Other great brands: Heist, Commando, Lane Bryant.

Storage & Organization:

Storage needs change job to job, but these are usually in my kit:

• Collapsible metal garment rack

  Avoid the cheapest option, as these will likely buckle under the strain. Go for something sturdy, with smooth wheels and weight capacity.

• Flat, non-slip hangers

  These can save you a world of frustration and stress.

• Clear zip garment bags

  I keep a variety of sizes for different wardrobe types.

• Ikea Blue Bags

  Surprisingly perfect for lugging shoe boxes and bulkier items.

• Portable steamer

  Essential for keeping wardrobe pieces wrinkle-free.

• Small blow dryer

  For drying clothing or spot-treated areas quickly and effectively.

This kit has been built job by job, emergency by emergency—and it’s what allows me to show up prepared, stay calm under pressure, and keep the wardrobe flawless from first fit to final frame.

If you’re a brand, creative agency, or production team looking for commercial styling in San Diego—consider this your peek behind the curtain. And if you’re a fellow stylist just starting out: steal what you need. I would’ve loved this list when I began.

Looking to work together? Send me an email.