Recruiter Tips
Breaking into the Fashion Industry

Network and Learn from Industry Insiders

 

Talking to experienced professionals can help you navigate your own path. Network with companies and recruiters—some will align with your values and vision, offering advice and inspiration, while others might provide fresh perspectives. As an undergraduate, there are many opportunities, like conferences, internships, panel events, and classes. The more contacts you make, the better your chances of finding new opportunities.

 

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Start Small and Build Your Way Up

 

Getting involved in the fashion industry doesn’t always mean landing your dream job right away. Think of it as building blocks that lead you to bigger opportunities. Not everyone will get their first internship at Jimmy Choo or their first design role at Michael Kors. That’s why it’s important to focus on learning and growth rather than just titles. Your skills in fashion are what will ultimately take you where you want to go.

 

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Look for Opportunities to Expand Your Knowledge

 

Begin your journey by finding opportunities that leverage your existing knowledge of fashion. Attend internships, conferences, and events, or watch videos and documentaries about the industry. This will expand your understanding of what fashion is all about and what companies are looking for.

 

For example:

 

“Don’t expect your employer to teach you the basics of modeling or fashion terminology. Make sure you know phrases like ‘comp cards,’ ‘time for prints,’ and ‘buyouts.’”

“If you're applying to an international brand, highlight the languages you speak and the countries you've visited or lived in. It shows your cross-cultural understanding of global fashion trends.”

 

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Highlight Your Experiences and Stay Confident

 

When it comes time to showcase your knowledge and experience to recruiters, avoid the mistake of not knowing your experiences in detail. Whether you’ve watched a documentary or worked backstage at an event, every experience counts. Avoid memorizing generic scenarios. Instead, keep track of the skills you’ve gained, how you developed them, and their impact.

 

Confidence is crucial when speaking with recruiters. Show that you’re not only enthusiastic about the opportunity but also confident in your goals and ambitions. Being inquisitive and asking thoughtful questions will demonstrate your eagerness to learn and contribute.

 

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Stay Updated on Fashion Trends

 

Keep up with current fashion trends and what different companies are doing. Recruiters want to see your knowledge of the fashion industry and the specific company you’re applying to. You can do this by:

 

• Developing a strong LinkedIn profile and connecting with industry professionals.

• Following fashion industry leaders on social media.

• Keeping your social media profiles professional and fashion-focused.

 

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Think Outside the Box

 

If you can’t secure an internship right away, that doesn’t mean the end of your fashion career. Ask for feedback, take the initiative to improve, and find unique ways to stand out to recruiters.

 

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Creative Ways to Gain Experience:

 

• Start a blog or fashion website.

• Work in retail to gain hands-on experience.

• Volunteer at fashion shows and events.

• Write for fashion magazines.

• Remember, every step you take brings you closer to your dream career in fashion!