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Freelance Stylist Jobs in Minnesota (NOW HIRING)

Has a passion for hair & the beauty industry * 1+ years' experience in a Salon or freelance hair styling setting (or at least half way through cosmetology school) * Previous salon/spa experience ...

Freelance Stylist information

See Minnesota salary details

$9

$20

$32

How much do freelance stylist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for freelance stylist in Minnesota is $20.62, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.01 and $23.56 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance stylist?

Freelance stylists are independent professionals who provide styling services for individuals or businesses without being employed by a single company. They work on a project-by-project basis, helping clients select clothing, accessories, and looks for events, photoshoots, or personal wardrobes. Freelance stylists may specialize in areas such as fashion, editorial, commercial, or personal styling, and often build their client base through networking and reputation. Their work involves staying current with fashion trends, understanding clients’ needs, and coordinating with photographers, designers, and other creatives.

What does a freelance stylist do?

As a freelance stylist, you work with celebrities, models, and individuals, doing hair and makeup and providing advice about clothing and accessories. In this role, you might help a model prepare for a photo shoot on one day and do a bride’s makeup on the next, and you have opportunities to travel and meet people from all walks of life. You must be knowledgeable about fashion, beauty, and hair care, and you need to stay up to date on the latest trends. As an independent stylist, you also need an entrepreneurial outlook, since your responsibilities include everything from marketing your services to collecting payment and filing taxes.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance stylist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Freelance Stylist, you need a keen eye for fashion trends, strong personal styling abilities, and a portfolio showcasing your work, often supported by formal training in fashion or design. Familiarity with digital lookbook platforms, editing software, and booking management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, networking, and client relationship skills set top stylists apart in this competitive field. These skills are essential to deliver personalized styling services, build a loyal client base, and adapt quickly to clients’ evolving needs.

What are some common challenges freelance stylists face when building their client base?

As a freelance stylist, one common challenge is establishing a steady stream of clients without the support of a salon or agency. Building trust and credibility through personal branding, strong social media presence, and client referrals is essential. Additionally, managing your own schedule, marketing, and finances can be demanding, especially when starting out. Networking with photographers, designers, and makeup artists can help expand opportunities and grow your client base over time.

What is the difference between Freelance Stylist vs Personal Shopper?

AspectFreelance StylistPersonal Shopper
CredentialsFashion knowledge, styling experienceFashion knowledge, shopping skills
Work EnvironmentPhotoshoots, fashion shows, client appointmentsRetail stores, online shopping, client meetings
Employer/IndustryFashion brands, photographers, individual clientsRetail stores, boutiques, personal clients
Search/Comparison IntentStyling services, fashion adviceShopping assistance, wardrobe updates

While both Freelance Stylists and Personal Shoppers work in the fashion industry and require fashion knowledge, Freelance Stylists focus on creating looks for photoshoots, events, or campaigns, whereas Personal Shoppers assist clients in selecting clothing and accessories, often within retail settings. Their roles overlap in fashion expertise but differ in daily tasks and work environments.

How much does a freelance stylist make?

Freelance stylists typically earn between $20 and $100 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the scope of projects. Earnings can vary widely based on client base, reputation, and the complexity of styling assignments, with some earning a full-time income and others working part-time or on a project basis.

How to get into a freelance stylist career?

To start a freelance stylist career, build a strong portfolio showcasing your work, gain experience through internships or assisting established stylists, and develop a network of clients and industry contacts. Skills in fashion trends, styling techniques, and good communication are essential, along with self-marketing and social media presence to attract clients.

What are the most commonly searched types of Stylist jobs in Minnesota?

The most popular types of Stylist jobs in Minnesota are:

What are popular job titles related to Freelance Stylist jobs in Minnesota?

For Freelance Stylist jobs in Minnesota, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Freelance Stylist job openings in Minnesota as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 72% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $42,895 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Hair Stylist / Blow out Styling Expert

Edina, MN • On-site

Drybar Shops
1 - 5K employees

$20 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago


Job description

Overview

We are Drybar! Our Tagline says it best: No Cuts, No Colors, Just Blowouts!

Here at Drybar MSP, you will join a fun and supportive team that enjoys learning from each other. We take pride in offering our team members an inclusive environment where everyone can be themselves, learn, grow, have fun, and make our clients feel beautiful.

We are seeking talented stylists to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is positive, reliable, friendly and customer focused. You excel in a fast-paced environment, have good conversation skills, can work independently or in a group setting, and are responsible and team oriented.

  • State Cosmetology License preferred not required
  • Styling experience necessary

Drybar Hair Stylists / Cosmetologists Enjoy These Perks:

  • Stylists take home an Average of $20.00-$30.00 per hour including Hourly+Tips and Commission
  • Receive Commission on Retail and Membership Sales 
  • Opportunities for growth through leadership and education career paths
  • Paid training on Blowouts, braids, and updos
  • Fun and flexible dresscode that allows you to be yourself
  • An amazing, fun, family-feel shop culture
  • Flexible hours and schedules

We are looking for a hair stylist who has: 

  • Positivity and Dedication to their craft
  • A desire to provide exceptional service & always striving to be the best they can be
  • Strong communication skills and the desire for creating a great experience for our guests 
  • Ability to work and collaborate in a team environment
  • An uplifting and supportive team player who supports their fellow teammembers, takes initiate, and self starts.
Responsibilities

- Greet and welcome guests in a professional and friendly manner

-Perform services according to Drybar's lookbook and styling standards- Address clients' questions and inquiries about our services and styles.-Using a POS system to check clients in and out-Ability to multitask and wear many hats within the roll (answer phones, book appointments, laundry, sanitizing tools/impliments, etc)-Contribute to shop sales - offering add-ons, memberships, & retail sales.-Create engaging Videos of products and services.-Create and record fun posts with team-members around the shop during slow and busy times.- Help maintain shop cleanliness and follow proper Stateboard sanitation processes.

Qualifications
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Has a passion for hair & the beauty industry
  • 1+ years' experience in a Salon or freelance hair styling setting (or at least half way through cosmetology school)
  • Previous salon/spa experience preferred
  • 2+ years' experience in a fast paced, customer service centric environment 
  • the desire to provide amazing customer service and help clients look and feel beautiful
  • Promote a professional and brand-appropriate image
  • Strong communication skills and strong presence with a client-oriented approach
  • Self-starter with a leadership mentality
  • Can work well with outhers or by themselves and stay productive
  • Pleasant and positive demeanor
  • Ability to work at a sustained, fast pace
  • Excellent problem solving and troubleshooting skills
  • Ability to multitask with ease
  • Frequently required to stand and/or walk for duration of 6-8 hour long shifts
  • Has the confidence, technical ability and skills to deliver fabulous wash and blowouts (braids and updos a plus)
  • Problem solver - use logic and support resources to solve problems behind the chair 
  • Maintains professional demeanor under pressure
  • Has a positive outlook and continuously contributes to a positive and fun shop atmosphere
Legal Disclaimer2024 DB Franchise, LLC ("DBF"). Each Drybar shop is independently owned and operated. Franchise owners are solely responsible for all employment decisions and matters regarding their independently owned and operated Shops. All individuals hired by franchise owners' shops are their employees, not those of DBF. Drybar + design is are registered trademarks owned by Helen of Troy Limited and used by DBF under license.