When you think of the fashion industry, what comes to mind first? You may picture tall models or think of your favorite clothing designer. However, there are a number of exciting careers in fashion that you may not be aware of.
From sketch artists, to personal stylists, to business executives, you will be able to pursue a rewarding career that allows you to showcase your strengths while working in a field that you love.
For those that are just starting out on a career, or if you have experience in another industry and want to make the switch, the first thing to do is explore your options. Doing so will allow you to learn about a variety of career paths within fashion so that you can choose the one that is right for you. This is an important step because having the information prepares you for meetings with fashion recruiters and other industry executives that can help you on your path to the top.
The following tips and details address how you can take steps now to get started in a fashion career. In addition to advice on breaking into the industry, you will also find information on how to decide on the right career and see more details on what a few of these careers entail.
Nowadays it can be rare to be in a situation where going to work doesn’t feel like work. Luckily, getting into fashion allows you to do what you love every day of the week. At the same time, it has the potential to take you to places you’ve only dreamed of.
How to Get Started in Fashion
You know that you want to begin a career in fashion but where should you begin? First of all, it is important to get an education that sets the groundwork for success down the road. In addition to having an eye for fashion and the creativity to design your own clothing and accessories, practical training and a thorough education are critical.
Many students do this by enrolling in a specialized training program to get hands-on experience with fashion professionals before beginning their career. However, there are different paths that you can take based on your preferred career and its requirements.
As previously mentioned, enrolling in a program at a fashion school will give you the knowledge and understanding of what you need to know to be successful in the industry. High school students who are exploring their options for college will want to research top fashion programs around the country, as well as those overseas in such industry-rich areas like France and Italy.
Many careers will require some sort of schooling in fashion, such as a Bachelors or Masters degree. Individuals looking to change their careers and begin in fashion should research various fashion programs and certification courses based on the career they wish to pursue.
While having a formal education in fashion, including design, merchandising, and management, is important, it is also necessary to include courses and areas of study that apply to the career of your dreams. In addition to specializing in fashion design or styling, for example, classes in art, English, communication, math, and business will all help you develop the skills you need to land a job in fashion and begin to climb the ladder. With a well-rounded education, you will be able to stand apart in meetings with fashion recruiters that can help you take the next step in your career.
As with any industry, fashion is about working your way up from the ground floor. Being able to promote yourself and network with the right individuals will allow you to secure internships and other opportunities that help get a foot in the door. A strong foundation can also lead you to discover the career that is right for you!
Which Career Is Right for You?
You may not know the specific fashion career that speaks to you, and that is perfectly fine. By taking a step back and examining yourself, you will be able to narrow things down and get a better understanding of your strengths and how you can apply them to your career. People who are more creative and artistic may gravitate toward a path that can lead to a position as a fashion designer, while those who prefer marketing and management may choose to go into the business side of the industry. How do you know which career is right for you?
When determining which field within fashion you want to work in, there are a number of factors to consider. In addition to playing to your strengths, it is also important to research a variety of careers so you know what you can expect from each choice. For example, you may aspire to become the next big fashion executive but find that in order to do so you need to first build up a portfolio and experience in other fashion roles.
Based on your current experience level, researching different fashion careers will help you discover opportunities that you are best suited for. You can also work with an advisor while getting an education, and attend networking events to help get your name out to firms and companies that are looking to add to their team. So, what are some of the most popular professions in fashion?
An Outline of Careers in Fashion
Fashion works like many of the other industries in the world; there are creative teams, business managers, production specialists, marketers, and more. Here are just a few of the different careers within fashion that are extremely important to the success of the industry.
Models – Most people are familiar with modeling as a career because it is one of the most visible within fashion. Modeling requires a lot more than just putting on the latest outfits at a fashion show, however. Since their job is to show off new clothing and accessories from top designers around the world, professional models need to have proven themselves in order to receive contract offers. Modeling schools help individuals develop skills that stand out to agencies when looking for jobs.
Designers – Positions as fashion designers are highly coveted because they enable a person to use his or her artistic eye to create new garments and accessories for the world. Designers are responsible for analyzing and developing fashion trends, and they work with their teams and managers to turn their ideas into reality. Companies typically require applicants to have a degree in fashion design and previous experience in either an internship or assistant role with a designer.
Buyers – Fashion buyers work on the other side of the industry – instead of creating new pieces, they are responsible for getting them into stores. Buyers work with suppliers and design companies to ensure that all of the clothing and accessories a store needs is purchased so that inventory levels remain where they need to be. Often, new products hit the shelves of a store based on the eye of the buyer and, depending on the company you work for, you may be able to travel in order to get this done.
Marketers – Fashion marketers work behind the scenes to develop advertising campaigns that their company will use to sell products. Marketers create these campaigns by analyzing current trends in the industry, and they work with teams of professionals to brainstorm and execute plans that reach key demographics. These jobs can require an advanced degree in marketing, with an undergraduate degree in fashion design or merchandising.
When you are ready to pursue a career in fashion, fashion recruiters will be there to help you along the way. Working with a fashion recruiter gives you insight into current openings in the industry and the backing of a professional to help market yourself to the top companies around the world. Learn more by contacting The Fashion Network today at 212-575-5898.
Contact Us Today
