The Truth About Working in Fashion
I think when most people hear that I work in fashion assumptions are made, and ideas are formed on what that might look like. Depending on what level of the industry a person works in, the job can either look like a scene from of the Devil Wears Prada or Horrible Bosses. Now, let me just say I’ve done my share of grunt work. From sales associate in retail stores to cataloging sample styles for showrooms, as well as more esteemed positions like overseeing media at fashion shows or even launching this blog. So, I know of what I speak.
Having worked in fashion for a little over 10 years, I’ve seen and heard a lot. It’s always hilarious to me when I see movies or people online talking about what it’s like working in fashion. It’s often painted as luxurious, fast paced full of important people. I’d just like to go on record and say it’s not. Allow me to debunk the top impressions people tend to have:
- Every customer is not a V.I.P Client
- There is plenty of downtime between launches, promotions, and events
- Employee perks are few and far between depending on the company you work for
Now with that out of the way, I’d like to focus on six common misconceptions and myths about what it’s like working in fashion. Hopefully it will take some of the illusions people seem to think the industry, and will help give a more realistic picture for those interested in getting into the industry.
It’s Definitely Not a Movie
As glamorous as working in fashion may sound, it’s not. Now, unless you’ve studied fashion and interned at the most prestigious companies most people that are starting at an entry level are doing the heavy lifting. The day to day for most fashion jobs often consist of tracking down items, reaching out to brands for opportunities or running around the city while carrying heavy garment bags and sample items.
Creativity Matters
Yes, creativity is important. However, most designers often get ideas through researching trends, going through magazines, and reintroducing old looks. Fashion is cyclical, trends from years past are always making a comeback, and the key is always how to make your interoperation stand out from the rest.
It’s About Who You Know
Many will say it’s not true, but I will say it does matter. I’ve benefited from knowing certain people that could get me in the right rooms with the right people. Also, let’s keep it real like many other industries fashion doesn’t have many people who look like me in senior positions so I believe it’s very important to build and cultivate relationships that can help your advance your career.
Your Online Presence Matters
Lies! Despite what Influencers may have you thinking large social media numbers are not enough to get you the job. You need to know what you’re doing. Unfortunately, most young hopefuls think that if there poppin’ online than the rest will fall into place but ask any industry veterans and they’ll tell you it's cool, but it doesn't get you work.
The industry is Cutthroat
Is there competition? Yes, there are occasional competitors and egos that you may come across. But it’s important to not get discouraged by other people’s successes. I’ve had the good fortune of working with some amazing people who want to see everyone around them succeed. Some of them are friends of mine to this day, and I’ve always found that in most creative industries everyone does a great job with offering referrals. No one’s hoarding contacts or stealing clients.
We Stay Shopping
HA! Budgets are tight these days and no one’s trying to live check to check and deep in debt for a kick ass closet. If you are…. Best of luck to you. Yes, it’s important to look the part and carry yourself in the best way you can, but within reason. Now, I’ll be honest some can and will blow the bank for the latest designer threads, but I have met people in this industry that have built a wardrobe many would covet without ever buying a single designer item. Personally, I’m not the biggest shopper so if that was the job description, I’d be out.
There you have it, some of the most common misconceptions I’ve come across about working in fashion. I hope I’ve quelled any suspicions and removed any intimidations, but as always, I’d love to hear from you. Are there any myths you’ve heard and would like for me to address? Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below.