The Tricks Stylists Use to Elevate a Room
Ever flip through a magazine or scroll Instagram and think, “How does the space look that effortlessly perfect?” Pillows perfectly karate-chopped, blankets draped like a cozy cloud, no rogue lamp cords in sight.
The truth: interior stylists have a bag of tricks — literally. It’s called a styling kit, and once you know what’s inside, you’ll wonder how you ever lived (or photographed) without it.
Here’s exactly what the pros bring to every shoot, why it works, and how you can use it to make your own home shoot-ready for the gram.
image credit: Little Greene
1. Tape: The Unsung Hero
A stylist is never without at least four kinds of tape:
Painter’s Tape: Keeps rugs flat, art straight, and curtains just so — without leaving a sticky mess.
Double-Sided Tape: Tack down a rebellious table runner or hold a pillow corner in place.
Gaffer’s Tape: Industrial-strength and doesn’t leave residue — perfect for hiding cords or securing props.
2. Command Hooks & Strips
No nail holes, no regrets. Pop up wreaths, garlands, or art exactly where you want them — then change your mind tomorrow.
3. Clamps & Clips
Binder clips, clothespins, and mini clamps keep drapes where you want them and throws draped just so. (Gravity is not your friend when shooting soft things.)
4. Lint Roller & Microfiber Cloth
A good stylist knows: the camera sees every speck of lint and rogue pet hair. Roll it, wipe it, shine it — then watch your photos sparkle.
image credit: Neptune
5. Sharp Scissors & Floral Wire
Last-second tag removal? Impromptu flower arranging? Taming stray stems? Covered.
6. Step Stool
Because the perfect shot is always just a little higher.
image credit: Brent Darby
7. Pretty Little Extras
Stylists keep a mini box of stand-by props to polish off a shot:
Fresh greenery (the pro's never fake it)
A spare duvet to layer under your bedding for an extra-plush, luxurious look.
A textured throw
Seasonal accents (a sprig of pine here, a lemon there)
These are the magic sprinkle that make your scene feel warm but not cluttered.
image credit: Brent Darby
In a Nutshell
Stylists don’t rely on fancy tricks or hidden Photoshop magic — just a practical kit and a keen eye for what looks natural but better than real life.
Steal these tools, practice a few drapes and fluffs, and you’ll be styling like the pros in no time.
-Juliette
