The X Factor isn't all about the singing – fans tune in week after week to see what the contestants are wearing to win over the public. With the hotly anticipated X Factor live shows kicking off next weekend, the show's official stylist Gemma Sheppard speaks to HELLO! Fashion about working with the contestants and judges on the hit ITV show…
How did it feel to land the X Factor show stylist job? I've worked on the X Factor before, having styled some of the individual judges. It is a brilliant and exciting show to be part of - we all know as viewers how big the show is and to be part of that action, behind the scenes, is fantastic. This is my first time styling the contestants and I am really looking forward to working with them individually to help nurture and develop their natural style. For me, if you look good, you feel good and so I think the styling for the contestants is an integral part of their performance and I can't wait to be part of that team that helps them be the best they can on that stage we'll ALL be watching!
Have you already started working with the contestants? Yes I have met the finalists - they're a brilliant selection and all very different with a wealth of talent! We are now working with them on their outfits for their first live shows this weekend... It is show-time! What elements come into deciding what contestants' outfits? We have a creative meeting each week before the live shows so I am led by the production team on the overall style and theme of the show. Then with my styling assistants we work through each contestant and think about their natural look and how to develop that. We need to think about their performance, whether the contestant will be moving, part of a group or alone and then of course discuss with hair and make-up so we create a complete look for each person. What's the most important aspect to their complete look? Confidence - as a stylist our job is to make sure the artist can stand on that stage with just their performance to think about. The outfit has to fit them and make them look and feel like a star. For me, fashion is nothing without music and music is nothing without fashion – the creative art forms are a perfect marriage. Will you be working closely with the contestants' mentors? Yes, X Factor is a team effort and so everyone has their input - that's what makes this one of the best shows on the TV - that huge attention to detail.For more information on Gemma's styling and daily updates from the fashionista, visit twitter.com/sheppardstyle and instagram.com/sheppardstyle.