Getting into fashion: 5 pieces of advice from industry professionals

The topic of what career path you might follow is one that is discussed right from childhood through to leaving school or university. Even those who have decided the fashion industry is for them, ideas about which role can often change, particularly after interning, gaining work experience or through further education. But what about those of us who are still unsure on what that career path looks like. There is a misconception that everyone even in the working world is clear about what they they want to do. I spoke to 5 fashion industry professionals, who shed light on advice they have for the many who are still figuring out which job role is for them.

5 top tips from fashion professionals

Louisa Yearley, an Assistant Buyer at H&M suggested, “Do as much work experience as you can! Just by being exposed to different positions you will soon realise what role is for you and always be open minded!” I think it’s important to remember that finding your career path won’t happen overnight and it’s a process that will constantly change and develop the older and more experienced you get. Getting internship and work experience is a great way to test the waters on lots of different roles within an industry and stay open to as many diverse opportunities that come your way.

Katie Amey, Social Media Manager at The Outnet.com said, “Don’t be afraid to take a chance on an unconventional career! At my first year of university, I was pre-med - though quickly (and thankfully) realised that it wasn’t for me!” Be willing to adapt and change your path is the best way to be, we can have unexpected opportunities that come our way, therefore being open to them will help you narrow down the choices that are right for you.

Patience is also incredibly important. Isabel Atherton, who is an Associate at the Yoox group said “Give yourself time – with time comes opportunities and clarity. Also don’t just do ‘one’ thing but try out lots of different paths until you find your niche” The world of work is a big diverse place, at university you only learn a fraction before you really begin to learn.

Alex Mckevitt, a personal shopper advises, “your destined job role may not be something you have considered before or even knew existed! Smaller companies are great because you will have a lot more freedom and opportunity to get involved with different areas. Always ask if you can get involved with as much as possible!”

"Stay open to as many diverse opportunities that come your way."

The general consensus has been to gain as much experience as possible, be open minded, take your time and keep going! It is important to remember that you are not in the boat alone, most people still struggle with what their careers will be, and that’s ok! Calyn Brooke, fitness blogger said, “Do any of us know what we want to do? I know so many people who majored in one thing in college and aren’t in that profession years later

My advice is to find something that you genuinely enjoy, something that inspires you to get up and work on it each day. If you don’t know that right now, that’s okay! We’re all a work in progress and figuring things out”

So….my advice would be, be adventurous, ask lots of questions, read a lot and educate yourself with what’s out there. Knowledge is power and the more you have of it, the better decisions you’ll make for yourself.

Go get ‘em!

By contributing guest editor Hannah Rafter, founder and Editor In Chief of The Intern 247, a website dedicated to giving real insights into the world of fashion internships. @theintern247 theintern247.com

Photo credit: Pexels, Artem Bali