The fashion industry is an exciting field to get into. Reporting on the latest Alberta Ferretti show, finding out about the trends ahead of time and travelling across the globe to meet fashion designers. As glamorous as it sounds, it takes a lot to make your mark in this stimulating and dynamic field though and there is a huge space between being a fashion journalist and becoming a major fashion journalist, the one with her own brand, huge following and collaborations. SPOILER: You’ll probably want to change jobs.
Have the right attitude
It takes focus, committment and patience to build a reputation in the fashion industry. Always go further and the extra mile so you can stand out from your competition, be passionate and always wear a smile. People will be instantly attracted to a smile and will be more eager to have a conversation with you.
Set realistic goals
In life, everything will either take you closer to your ultimate dream or take you away from it. Always keep your goals in mind and hone in on it at every opportunity you can.
Work experience
You can never have enough contacts so keep building your little black book. Start gaining experience as soon as you want to develop your skills further. Experience goes a long way and many of today’s top fashion writers started out as an intern. It is pivotal that your passion for writing about fashion comes across clearly in your CV and always include why you want to write about fashion.
Network
The fashion industry thrives on building a little black book, a small book full of contacts. Network wherever you can, look up press agents and companies. Fashion Monitor is a great website for this, list everyone’s contact details and invite them to coffee. Nobody will turn down coffee in the fashion industry.
Blog
A fantastic way to start getting recognised is by building your own platform online. Start reviewing shows, even if you’ve only seen them online. Invest in business cards so people can just keep you in their purse. Make sure everyone remembers your name and knows where to find you. Nowadays, everyone has a blog so think about your personal style and how to develop it. A distinctive style will enable you to stand out at the fashion shows and give you a presence.
Get educated
You need to know all about the the trending designers and products. You need a foundation which could come from a degree or internship. You need to be able to talk about the history behind the world’s most famous designers, and even the smaller ones. You should attend costume exhibits and fashion exhibitions, connect with other people there and look into talks fashion industry experts are hosting.