Careers in the Fashion Industry: How to Get Started

When it comes to the fashion industry today, the most important place you can be is online. Use search engines, blogger networks and social media to keep tabs on fashion platforms both in your area and abroad. Most organizations will have a link to their “jobs” page. There are also many sites that serve as hubs for jobs in the fashion industry. Social media networks like LinkedIn are also great platforms to find opportunities. Make a habit of checking these pages regularly, and apply as soon as something comes up. It shouldn’t be necessary to stress how important it is to tailor each cover letter to the job you’re applying for. Highlight your strong points and indicate clearly how they will benefit the company. 

As with any job opportunity, it’s most important to have a positive mind-set – even when doing monotonous tasks or feeling overworked. Write down every time you learn something new, or master a skill. You’d be surprised how quickly your CV expands.

One of the most productive things I’ve done was identifying my dream job (no matter how unattainable it was at the time) and focusing on what I would need to know and be able to do to be considered for it. Yes, it could take years to gain that kind of experience, but it makes it easier to make career decisions and determine your next step.

During my first internship, I learnt that asking to do something is the easiest way to develop yourself. Do you want to learn more about public relations? Why not ask the person responsible for it if you can contribute in a small way, or can merely observe the process? Finding a mentor in the industry is also a way in which you can learn things other than those listed in your job description.

I’ve said a lot about skills. The reality is: the fashion industry needs people with many, many different talents. They need writers, strategists, designers, project leaders, business developers, marketers, photographers, even accountants! Sticking to what you’re good at is a great point of departure. If you’re unsuccessful in landing an opportunity in a fashion environment, there are still many organizations out there where you can develop the same skills the fashion industry needs.

I cannot stress enough how much value there is in taking some initiative. Creating a blog or a voice on social media is one of the best ways to build up a network and gain recognition in the fashion world. Even if your future employer has never heard of you, showing them what you’ve accomplished in your spare time gives you a massive step up. Creating an online platform today is easier than ever. Use it to share your thoughts, inspiration, your personal style and your writing/creative/editorial skills.

Last, but not least, stay up to date with what happens in the fashion industry. An easy way to do this is by following a few big shots or media houses on Twitter, and scanning the hot topics and latest fashion trends before breakfast every day. When you land your big break, you’ll be knowledgeable enough to form an opinion and provide valuable input.

There are many opportunities out there. Your enthusiasm and creativity are your strongest assets in the fashion world. Don’t make the mistake of sitting still – roll up your sleeves and show this industry what you’re made of!

Judy Hofmeyr is passionate about two things: Fashion and the Digital World. She currently works for online fashion community STYLIGHT. What does she like most about her job? Attending Fashion Weeks, writing about the newest trends, talking shop with fashion bloggers and exploring the nooks and crannies of her current hometown, Munich.

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