So You're in College and Want to Work in Fashion?
The Article I Wish Existed When I Was in College
Passion for fashion knows no boundaries. Whether you're a business student, a future engineer, or a psychology major, your love for fashion doesn't have to be sidelined just because you're not pursuing a fashion degree. In fact, college is the perfect time to explore and nurture this interest, regardless of your academic focus.
This article isn't just for fashion majors; it's for anyone with a flair for style and a desire to make their mark in the fashion world. As a college student, your major doesn't define your future in fashion. There are countless ways to immerse yourself in the industry, learn valuable skills, and build a network that can help you land your dream job.
Stepping into the fashion world as a non-fashion major can feel intimidating. You might worry about not having the right credentials or experience. However, the fashion industry thrives on diversity of thought and creativity. Your unique background and perspectives can offer fresh insights and innovative ideas that are invaluable to the fashion world.
Why I’m Qualified to Discuss This Topic
Before we dive in, I want to share what makes me credible to write this article. I graduated from college over a year ago with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Marketing. I didn't receive a fashion degree or certificate, and I only took two fashion classes while in school. However, I didn't let that stop me. I knew I wanted a career in fashion and understood that my fashion knowledge wouldn’t come solely from the classroom, so I had to learn and gain experience on my own.
At the end of my sophomore year of college, I decided to take control of my destiny and learn everything I could about fashion. I started working at a local boutique near my school, connected with a professional mentor through my university who worked in fashion, and founded my school's first-ever fashion magazine. Those initial steps were crucial in helping me get to where I am today. They gave me the confidence to pursue my goals, even though they were outside the traditional academic path for a career in fashion. I realized that I was more than capable of having a successful career in fashion, despite not having a traditional fashion degree. My experiences, determination, and passion were enough to carve out my path in the industry.
In future articles, I'll delve into more detail about the specific steps I took to craft my career. However, every story is different, and in this article, I want to focus on practical actions you can take as a college student to feel more confident about fashion and start your own journey. Whether it's getting involved in extracurricular activities, seeking internships, starting personal projects, or networking with industry professionals, there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the fashion world and build a foundation for a successful career.
Join a Fashion Club
Joining a fashion club at your college can be a transformative step towards a successful career in the fashion industry. These clubs offer valuable networking opportunities with peers and industry professionals, providing a platform to build lasting relationships and gain insights from experts. Through hands-on experiences like organizing fashion shows, styling photoshoots, and planning events, you can develop practical skills and create a strong portfolio that showcases your talents.
Leadership roles within the club demonstrate your ability to manage projects and take initiative, enhancing your resume. If your college lacks a fashion club, starting one yourself can further highlight your leadership and creativity, setting you apart in the competitive fashion world. Overall, being part of a fashion club equips you with the connections, skills, and experiences necessary for a thriving career in fashion.
Start a Fashion Blog or Vlog
Creating a fashion blog or YouTube channel is an excellent way to express your style, share your fashion insights, and establish a strong online presence. By consistently producing content, you not only develop your unique voice but also showcase your expertise and creativity to potential employers, collaborators, and a broader audience.
Through your blog or channel, you can delve into current trends, review fashion shows, provide styling tips, and offer your personal take on the latest in fashion. This regular engagement helps you stay updated with industry trends and sharpens your analytical skills.
Work at a Local Boutique or Fashion Retailer
Even though it might not seem like much, part-time jobs or internships at local boutiques, fashion stores, or even large retail chains can provide you with valuable experience. Working in retail teaches you about customer service, inventory management, merchandising, and the day-to-day operations of a fashion business.
You'll gain practical skills and industry knowledge, and you can observe how businesses market and sell their products. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to build relationships with professionals in the industry.
Pursue Internships
Internships are everything; they offer invaluable hands-on experience and help you build a professional network. If the area surrounding your university has a fashion scene, look for internships with fashion brands, designers, fashion magazines, PR agencies, or any companies related to the fashion industry. If your area doesn’t have much of a preexisting fashion scene, research alumni from your school to see if anyone currently works in fashion.
It never hurts to reach out to people for guidance; the worst they can say is no. Internships allow you to work on real projects, learn from industry professionals, and understand the inner workings of the fashion world. They can also lead to job offers and provide you with references and a strong addition to your resume.
Network with Industry Professionals
Attend as many fashion events as possible. My best advice would be to go on Eventbrite and look up “fashion” and your area. No matter if it is a fashion show, trade show, or an industry conference, that is where the right people will be. Networking with professionals can open doors to mentorships, job opportunities, and valuable industry insights.
Utilize LinkedIn to connect with fashion professionals, fashion alumni from your university, and join online fashion communities. Engaging in these activities helps you build relationships and stay informed about industry trends. Trust me, everyone in the fashion industry has been in your shoes one way or another, so don’t be afraid to reach out for informational interviews!
Create a Fashion Portfolio
Start compiling a portfolio of your work, whether it includes design sketches, styling projects, photography, or written articles. A well-organized portfolio can be a powerful tool when applying for internships or jobs in the fashion industry.
Your portfolio should showcase your best work and demonstrate your skills, creativity, and versatility. Include descriptions of each project to provide context and highlight your role and contributions.
Stay Updated on Fashion Trends and News
Read fashion magazines, follow fashion blogs, and stay active on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest to keep up with the latest trends and industry news. Staying informed will help you develop a deeper understanding of the fashion world.
Subscribing to industry newsletters, attending webinars, and watching interviews with fashion professionals can also provide valuable insights. Keeping up with trends and news will ensure you are knowledgeable and can engage in informed discussions about the industry.
As you navigate your college years, remember that your passion for fashion can coexist harmoniously with any major you choose. Embrace extracurricular activities, internships, and networking opportunities to immerse yourself in the fashion world. Joining a fashion club, starting a blog or vlog, working at a local boutique, pursuing internships, networking with industry professionals, creating a portfolio, and staying updated on trends are all powerful steps to build your foundation in fashion.
Your unique background and diverse experiences can set you apart in the industry. So, seize every opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with like-minded individuals. By taking proactive steps during your college years, you can confidently pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career in fashion. Don't let the intimidation of not being a fashion major hold you back—embrace your passion and take the first steps towards your fashion dreams. You got this!
XO,
𝒇𝒂𝒔𝒉𝒊𝒐𝒏 𝒇𝒊𝒍𝒍𝒆