In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving fashion industry, digital skills are no longer just a "nice-to-have." They’ve become a non-negotiable asset. Whether you’re in design, marketing, merchandising, or any other area of fashion, the ability to use digital tools and platforms is key to staying competitive. As recruiters at u&i, we see firsthand how candidates with strong digital skills have an edge in today’s job market.
So, what exactly are fashion employers looking for when it comes to digital expertise? And how can you make sure you’re meeting these expectations? Here’s a breakdown of the role digital skills play in fashion today and the areas that employers are prioritising when hiring.
Design and Creation: Digital Tools are a Must
Traditionally, designers relied on sketchpads and physical materials, but the modern designer’s toolkit is incomplete without digital design software. Tools like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CLO 3D have revolutionised the design process, allowing for quicker prototyping, seamless alterations, and even virtual garment fitting.
For designers, proficiency in 3D software is increasingly vital. Platforms like CLO 3D or TUKAcad allow designers to experiment with garments virtually before producing physical samples, which can significantly reduce waste and costs. Sustainability is a growing priority for many brands, and being skilled in digital design tools that promote sustainable practices will help set you apart in the hiring process.
If you’re a designer aiming to stay competitive, it’s essential to master these tools. Platforms like Skillshare or LinkedIn Learning offer great courses that can help you build your skills and stay ahead of industry trends.
E-commerce and Digital Retail: Mastering Online Platforms
With online shopping now at the core of the fashion industry, digital literacy in e-commerce has never been more important. Whether you’re in marketing, buying, or product management, understanding how digital platforms work is key. Employers are looking for candidates who know how to optimise product listings, track online sales, and analyse customer data to drive business decisions.
For those working in retail and merchandising, it’s essential to be familiar with popular e-commerce platforms like Shopify, Magento (now Adobe Commerce), and BigCommerce. Understanding SEO and SEM is also crucial for fashion marketers, as these skills help drive traffic to e-commerce sites and increase conversions.
As a candidate, it’s important to demonstrate not only how you can use these tools but also how you can use data to make strategic decisions.
Social Media and Digital Marketing: Building a Brand Online
Fashion is a visual industry, and social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest are essential tools for building brand awareness and engaging with consumers. Fashion brands are constantly looking for professionals who understand how to create compelling content, engage followers, and design campaigns that resonate with the target audience.
Employers are especially keen on candidates who are not only creative but also data-driven when it comes to social media. Being familiar with tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, and Sprout Social to schedule, analyse, and optimize posts is increasingly valuable in today’s marketing roles.
Additionally, an understanding of influencer marketing, live streaming, and how to create viral campaigns can be a game-changer for those pursuing digital marketing roles. Social media trends are always evolving, so staying current with new tools and strategies is key to standing out.
The Rise of Digital Fashion and Virtual Experiences
Virtual fashion is a rapidly growing field, blending technology with clothing design to create digital garments that exist only in virtual spaces. For designers, marketers, and tech experts in the fashion industry, this opens up exciting new career paths. Digital garments can be worn by avatars or used in virtual experiences, like fashion shows or gaming platforms.
For those looking to explore roles in digital fashion, it’s essential to have skills in 3D modelling, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR). Understanding the intersection of fashion and tech is crucial as more brands experiment with virtual collections and online fashion events.
Fashion marketers who are familiar with virtual events, live-streamed runway shows, or influencer partnerships on platforms like Twitch will be ahead of the curve. As the line between digital and physical fashion continues to blur, the demand for talent in these spaces is growing fast.
Supply Chain Management and Data Analytics: Efficiency and Sustainability
The fashion supply chain has become more complex than ever, but digital tools are helping streamline the process. Brands need professionals who can manage inventory, track products, and optimise the flow of goods. For those in supply chain or operations roles, being familiar with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems like SAP or Oracle is critical.
Moreover, sustainability is increasingly a top priority for many brands, and data analytics tools are now being used to optimise production processes, track carbon footprints, and find more sustainable ways to source and produce garments. Employers are looking for candidates who can use digital tools to reduce waste, enhance efficiency, and contribute to greener practices within the fashion industry.
Final Thoughts
The role of digital skills in the fashion industry cannot be overstated. As brands adapt to the digital age, employers are seeking professionals who not only understand the creative and technical aspects of fashion but can also use digital tools to enhance design, marketing, retail, and production processes. Whether you’re a designer, marketer, merchandiser, or operations expert, embracing digital tools will help you stay relevant and competitive.
At u&i, we help talented professionals understand the fashion job market. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and want to explore new roles in fashion, check out our latest job openings. With the right digital expertise, you’ll be well-positioned to succeed in today’s fashion industry.
