When you're building your fashion career, one of the biggest decisions you'll make is where to grow. Do you aim for a household name, a heritage brand with decades of legacy and global recognition? Or do you dive into the energy and experimentation of a fashion startup?
Both paths have their perks and their challenges. Whether you’re at the start of your journey or looking to make your next move, here’s a breakdown of the key differences, plus a few things to consider before you choose.
The Case for Startups: Fast-Paced, Forward-Thinking, Full-On
Pros:
- Agility & Innovation
Startups are often at the cutting edge of fashion. Whether it’s sustainable tech, direct-to-consumer models or gender-neutral collections, these brands are typically built around big ideas and fast execution. You’ll likely be surrounded by entrepreneurial thinkers and encouraged to challenge the status quo.
- Broader Role Exposure
With smaller teams and fewer layers, you’ll probably wear multiple hats. A design assistant might get involved in marketing; a merchandiser might contribute to product development. It’s a great environment for fast learners who want a 360° view of the business.
- Room to Grow (Quickly)
Startups often promote from within, and progression can be faster than at more traditional companies. If you show initiative and impact, you may find yourself stepping into more responsibility sooner than you expected.
Cons:
- Less Structure
With fewer resources and sometimes less process, it can feel chaotic. You may need to figure things out as you go, and there’s often little in the way of formal training or handholding.
- Workload & Burnout
The hustle is real. Teams tend to be lean, and expectations are high, especially in early-stage businesses. Boundaries can blur, and it’s easy to feel ‘always on’ unless the culture actively supports work-life balance.
- Job Security Can Be Shaky
Startups are inherently higher-risk. Investment can dry up, or the market might shift. It’s worth asking about funding, business plans, and team retention if you’re interviewing for a role at a new or growing brand.
The Case for Heritage Brands: Stability, Legacy, and Structure
Pros:
- Established Systems & Training
Big fashion houses have been around for a reason. They tend to offer strong onboarding, clear progression frameworks, and access to mentorship. If you’re early in your career or looking to deepen a specialism, this can be a big advantage.
- Brand Recognition
Working for a well-known label can open doors. Whether it’s future employers, networking opportunities or PR-worthy projects, there’s a certain career currency that comes with a big name on your CV.
- Defined Roles & Support
Unlike the all-hands-on-deck approach of startups, heritage brands typically offer more role clarity and support structures. There’s often a team for everything, which means more focus.
Cons:
- Slower to Change
Heritage brands are often more traditional in their ways of working. Change can be slow, and you might face more internal red tape when trying to innovate.
- Narrower Scope
Because roles tend to be more defined, you may not get the same breadth of experience. If you’re someone who thrives on variety, this structure could feel limiting.
- Less Personal Visibility
With larger teams and more senior layers, it can be harder to get noticed or to move up quickly. Progression may follow a more formal or time-based structure.
How to Choose What’s Right for You
Start by asking: What kind of environment helps me thrive? Do you prefer structure or spontaneity? Are you excited by innovation, or motivated by legacy and polish?
There’s no “right” answer here, but there is a right fit for you. And if you’re still unsure, consider exploring both: many of the most well-rounded professionals we place have experience across a mix of brands.
Looking to explore which role in fashion is the best fit for you? Our blog on fashion career paths breaks down the key functions across the industry. From buying, to design and marketing, you can get clearer on where your skills (and passion) really shine.
Final thought
Startups and heritage brands offer very different, but equally valuable, career experiences. One gives you speed, variety, and the chance to help shape something new. The other offers structure, reputation, and the chance to learn from some of the best in the industry.
Whichever you choose, choose it intentionally. And if you need help finding your perfect fit, we’re here for that.
Explore roles with U&I or chat with our team about where your career could go next.
