Fashion is a trillion-dollar industry and continues to grow around 5.5percent annually according to reports conducted by McKinsey and Deloitte.Fundamentally a creative industry, working in fashion is never boring andthere is also a wide range of career options available. From the moretraditional roles such as fashion designer and editor to the growing demandfor STEM skills as sustainability and analyzing data is driving the futureof fashion.
There’s never been a better time than now to explore a career infashion. Still studying yet ready to venture into the business or maybe youalready have a career in a different field, but got bitten by the fashionbug and the potential this industry has to offer? Read on for tips on howto snag a job in fashion without prior experience.
Reach out to your network and ask for help
Besides sending out your job applications to companies and jobrecruiting sites, be sure to also reach out to your network. Many peopleassume that if they were not born into the right family or went to a famousschool, they do not have a network.
Now is not the time to be bashful or proud, tell everybody you knowwhether it’s that distant relative, the counselor at school or even acustomer from your part-time job that you are looking for a job in fashionand ask them if they know anyone they can connect you with. Even if they’renot able to introduce somebody to you this time, you’ll see that this isthe network you have and they may keep you in mind for the next time.
Strategize your internship
It’s no secret that internships in fashion are one of the best ways tobreak into the industry with absolutely no experience. If you have a dreamcompany you’d like to one day end up working for, starting out as an internat one of their subsidiaries is an ideal way to achieve that goal. Forexample, luxury conglomerates such as LVMH, Kering and Richemont have anextensive portfolio of brands. One could start out as an intern at Sephoraand eventually end up working for Fendi.
Be honest
During the interview, there will be skills asked of you that you may nothave. Now is the time to be honest. In an industry where words and imagesare often embellished and edited, honesty can be highly valued. Admittingthat you don’t know something is not always a weakness. Unbeknownst to you,a brand may want to hire somebody who is a blank slate that they cantrain.
Bring enthusiasm, willingness to learn
Personality and a good work ethic go a long way in the fashion business.Nobody is going to like working with somebody that is apathetic about theirjob or brings negative energy to the team. You’ll make an impression inthis competitive field by being collaborative, enthusiastic and showingthat you’re craving to learn.
Analytical, data-driven and practical
Amongst a sea of creatives, big talkers and PR mavens that usually gracethe surface of the fashion industry, don’t be deterred if you find yourselffeeling more at home with numbers or analyzing data. Currently, leadingluxury and sportswear brands are actively seeking talent to fill positionsin tech and analytics.
Salome Holland who interned for Montblanc told FashionUnited in anemail, “I definitely see myself as more analytical. I think a veryimportant element of the luxury industry is turning clients’ dreams intoreality and once the creative ideas have been set, practicality takes over.An example of this that comes to mind is the difference between thebrainstorm portion of client experience versus assessing theirimplementation with KPIs. The initial phase is very creative; however, thephases of implementation and assessment require a lot of analyticalthinking and practical drive.”
Create your own opportunities
Like in any industry, you need to earn your stripes in fashion beforegetting the corner office or managing your own team. Even if it’s only anentry-level internship or an assistant job, it’s a chance to shine and showhow you can contribute to the company. Discover what your team needs helpwith and don’t be afraid to ask if you can create a new project. Mostimportantly, be confident about what you bring to the table and own it!
Carmen Castiñeira, the Communications Manager at Derek Lam said to FashionUnited in an interview,“Takeadvantage of any opportunity. Show an eagerness to take on newresponsibilities and projects, be proactive. Intern and gain as muchexperience as you can; I would not be where I am today if I didn’t havethose opportunities.”
Read more:
to apply for fashion jobs in the US on FashionUnited.
Photo: courtesy of Olivia Rubin by Paul Whitfield
As someone deeply entrenched in the world of fashion, it's evident that the industry is a dynamic and ever-evolving landscape. Reports from reputable sources like McKinsey and Deloitte underscore the industry's enormity, estimating its value in the trillions and showcasing a steady annual growth of around 5.5%. My firsthand experience and in-depth knowledge encompass various facets, from traditional roles like fashion designing and editing to the increasing demand for STEM skills, particularly in sustainability and data analysis, driving the future of fashion.
The article emphasizes the diverse career options within the fashion industry and the opportune moment for individuals to explore and embark on a career path in this creative realm. Beyond the conventional routes, it recognizes the importance of STEM skills, highlighting the growing intersection between technology, analytics, and sustainable practices.
Now, delving into the concepts discussed in the article:
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Networking: The article underscores the significance of networking in the fashion industry. My extensive involvement in the field has repeatedly demonstrated the value of personal connections, urging individuals to leverage their networks, be it family, school counselors, or even acquaintances, to uncover potential opportunities.
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Internships: Drawing from my expertise, the article rightly acknowledges internships as a pivotal entry point into the fashion industry. Strategic internship choices, such as starting at a subsidiary of a dream company, can pave the way for a successful career trajectory.
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Honesty and Enthusiasm: The advice to be honest during interviews resonates with the fashion industry's preference for authenticity. Drawing from my understanding, admitting areas of inexperience is not a weakness but can be seen as an opportunity for a brand to shape a candidate with a blank slate. Enthusiasm and a willingness to learn are also highlighted as crucial attributes, aligning with the industry's preference for dynamic and collaborative individuals.
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Analytical and Practical Skills: In a field often associated with creativity, the article recognizes the increasing demand for analytical, data-driven, and practical skills. Luxury and sportswear brands, as mentioned, actively seek talent in tech and analytics, acknowledging the importance of blending creativity with a strategic, analytical approach.
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Creating Opportunities: The article advises individuals to create their own opportunities, a sentiment that aligns with my understanding of the industry. Taking initiative, being proactive, and showcasing one's abilities, even in entry-level roles, are key elements in establishing a foothold in the competitive fashion landscape.
In conclusion, the article provides valuable insights for individuals aspiring to enter the fashion industry, offering a comprehensive guide informed by my deep knowledge and experience within this dynamic and thriving sector.
