You’re keen to enter the exhilarating world of fashion, an industry that is as exciting as it is varied. Whether it’s because you have a flare for what looks good, creativity or just passionate about fashion, there are many aspects to consider. Here are some tips on how to start a career in the fashion industry.
Start a Fashion Career
Getting an early start
If you are still at school and considering a career in fashion there are specific subjects that will provide you with a firm groundwork and art is one of the most important. Art provides you with the understanding of important concepts like colour theory and contrast as well as leading lines and perspective which are a must in the industry, regardless of which avenue you decide to follow. Math, English and history are subjects that may surprise a budding fashionista, but will provide important building blocks to your career. A solid grasp of numbers is vital for ordering materials or creating patterns and effective communication skills will be crucial. Understanding the history of fashion, with its many different influences through the years, will provide you with insight into the industry, as well as the wants and needs of the consumer.
Work experience
As with your early education, work experience is imperative and will set you apart from your peers as you enter into the world of fashion. In an industry as varied as fashion, there are many opportunities where you can gain work experience, they may not always be well paid or glamorous, but remember that everyone needs to start somewhere. A part time job at a clothing store will provide you with an understanding of supply and demand as well as enhancing your interpersonal skills. Helping with displays is a great way to hone your styling and showcase your talent. Although especially difficult, finding a fashion internship within the industry is a fantastic opportunity that will provide an enviable start to your career, whether working with a designer or assisting in the fashion department of a magazine, the insight and experience you will gain cannot be matched.
Networking
Getting to know people within the industry will not only help to broaden opportunities in the future, but they are also in a unique position to offer you support. These people have an understanding of your situation, the industry you’re in and where you’re coming from. The fashion industry is fiercely competitive and the relationships that you build could help you get that much needed boost when you need it most.
Choose your focus
The opportunities within the fashion industry are many and varied, from clothing and costume design to retail. Identifying what it is you really want to do within your fashion career will keep you focused and motivated. Part of this will be identifying what it is you’re looking for from your career and what it is you’re really don’t want. Although in the beginning you may be doing something you don’t want, it’s worth sticking with it to achieve your end goal and having a specific end goal in mind will keep you going. It’s all about the experience you gain.
Read more about these choices in what can I do with a fashion degree.
Practice your trade
The industry requires that you showcase your talent, providing a taste of what you have to offer and what you can bring to your role. It’s imperative that you work on your skills to continuously improve and learn. It might mean researching, drawing or sewing, so use your creativity to become the best that you can be in that particular area. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Attitude
Fashion is a tough and competitive industry, you need to be prepared for hard work, to take some knocks, but get back up again and slog on. You will need to show perseverance and the ability to take criticism and use it constructively. Keeping your end game in sight will provide you with the motivation to keep going.
Furthering your education
There are a variety of courses to consider when deciding to further your education in fashion and careful consideration will need to be taken when choosing which institution to study at. Villioti Fashion Institute is an accredited higher education institution providing both a Bachelor of Fashion and a Diploma in fashion as well as a number of short courses. Short courses offered include Beginners and Advanced courses on Garment Construction, Pattern Engineering and Fashion Design. It also provides the unique opportunity to take part in international courses, conducted by top faculty members from New York, providing participants with the opportunity to experience design at an international level and gain a global perspective.
Read More: How can I be a fashion designer?
