So, you’ve just graduated with your fashion degree—congrats! All those all-nighters, critiques, and design projects are behind you, and now you’re ready to dive into the fashion world. But… where do you start? Graduating can feel surreal and a bit overwhelming, especially in an industry as fast-paced as fashion. But don’t worry; there are a lot of exciting pathways ahead. Here’s a roadmap to help you kick off your post-grad journey.
Build a Killer Portfolio
Your portfolio is the #1 thing employers will want to see, and it needs to tell your story as a designer or fashion professional. Think of it as a curated “highlight reel” of your best work, showing your skills, creativity, and growth. Make sure it includes:
- Your strongest designs: Select pieces that showcase your versatility. Think unique sketches, digital renderings, and even prototypes.
- Process work: Fashion is about the process as much as it’s about the final piece. Include design iterations, mood boards, and fabric swatches to show how you develop ideas.
- Professional projects: If you’ve had internships, freelance gigs, or collaborated with brands, this is where you let it shine. Potential employers love to see real-world experience.
Consider creating both an online portfolio (through a platform like Behance or your own website) and a physical version for in-person interviews. This way, people can find your work online, but you’ll also have a professional-looking piece to take with you.
Network Like It’s Your Job
In fashion, connections can be just as important as your skills. Getting to know people in the industry could lead to valuable job opportunities. If you haven’t already, make a LinkedIn profile and connect with people in your field—this includes classmates, former professors, and industry professionals you may have met during internships.
- Attend events: Fashion events, exhibitions, and even online webinars are great ways to meet people. Sites like Eventbrite often have listings for industry events, including virtual ones.
- Follow and DM on Instagram: Fashion is super visual, and Instagram is a perfect way to stay connected with brands, designers, and influencers. Don’t be afraid to drop a polite message if there’s someone whose work you admire. A friendly DM can go a long way.
- Reach out to alumni: Many fashion schools have alumni networks. Reaching out to past students who’ve landed in roles you’d love can give you insights and maybe even a few job tips.
Networking may feel a bit intimidating, but think of it as building relationships, not just contacts. It’s about learning from people and finding ways to help each other out.
Create Your Own Path
While traditional paths in fashion (designer, stylist, merchandiser) are rewarding, the industry is open to innovation. Many successful fashion pros have taken non-traditional paths and carved out unique roles for themselves. Here are a few examples:
- Freelance or Consulting Work: Many recent grads start by freelancing. This allows you to build a client base, choose projects that excite you, and work with different brands.
- Content Creation: Love styling and sharing your looks? Fashion blogging or social media content creation can open doors to brand partnerships and paid opportunities.
- Sustainable Fashion Ventures: With sustainability becoming a big priority, more fashion grads are launching their own ethical brands or consulting on sustainable practices for larger brands.
Take Your First Steps Confidently
You’re entering the fashion world at such an exciting time! The industry is changing rapidly, with so many new ways to apply your creativity and skills. Don’t worry if your career path isn’t clear yet. Stay curious, take every opportunity to learn, and enjoy building your journey. Fashion is as much about the process as it is about the destination.
For more tips on landing a role in the fashion industry, head to our blog.
