
Commotion with Elamin Abdelmahmoud The rise of stylists, and why we need jazz-pop right now
Jan 27, 2026
Natalie Harmsen, CBC Music journalist covering rising jazz-pop stars like Olivia Dean and Laufey. Avery Trufelman, fashion podcaster and historian tracing styling trends. Jarrod Jenkins, LA-based fashion critic and stylist shaping red carpet moments. They talk about the surge of jazz-pop and its upbeat charm. They trace the ascent of celebrity stylists and how curated looks now influence careers.
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Stylists Shape Star Personas
- Celebrity image can be deliberately shaped by stylists to turn working actors into perceived leading men or style icons.
- Jarrod Jenkins credits stylists like Julia Rogolia and Armani-era branding for creating modern star personas.
How Armani Built Modern Styling
- Avery Trufelman recounts how Armani stepped in after the studio system collapsed and began outfitting stars in the 1980s.
- That partnership helped designers harness Hollywood to build luxury brands and a new stylist ecosystem.
Stylists Can Become Cultural Figures
- Stylists can become public figures and trend originators when their signature looks appear across many stars.
- Avery points to Rachel Zoe as a turning point that made styling legible to mainstream audiences.

