Volunteering

The easiest way to get experience in the fashion industry is to volunteer. According to mirodoor.com, volunteering is the easiest way to bulk up your resume and gain valuable experience. Try everything from volunteering at fashion shows to helping a designer run their table at a trade show. Not only will you gain firsthand experience of the inner workings of the fashion industry but you’ll create connections with other people in the industry.

Interning

Being a fashion intern isn’t just like the movies – you aren’t just running around fetching cappuccinos for your boss. In reality, interning is a great way to dip your feet into the fashion industry and gain knowledge and experience while doing so. It is also a great way to try out different sectors of the industry and see what you love and don’t love. The connections you make while interning may be helpful later on when applying for different jobs, or your internship may turn into a full-time paid position.

Take classes/enroll in a fashion program

Not only will having a college/university diploma or degree help you obtain future jobs, but attending fashion related classes will strengthen your knowledge in multiple sectors of the fashion industry. From graphic design classes that will teach you how to use industry essentials like Photoshop and Illustrator, to business classes such as marketing and communication, an education will help you tremendously when trying to dip your feet into the fashion industry. Another advantage of enrolling is that many employers, designers, and company’s reach out and post job and intern opportunities through many universities and colleges.

Networking

Gaining valuable connections through your time volunteering and interning is a large advantage when looking for jobs later on. Look for networking events in your city and make use of them.

Social Media + Blogging

Social media is the greatest platform in today’s society for communicating and sharing. Creating your own fashion blog, Instagram where you share your outfits, etc. could help when dipping your feet into the industry. If you are going to use your social media accounts as a way to network and gain followers in the industry – make sure you pay attention to what you post. Potential clients and employers don’t want to see you partying last Friday night; they want to see how your social media reflects you as a person and your style.

By Nicole Tinker

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