How to start a career in fashion
- Written byMariana Jaureguilorda Beltran
- Published date 20 March 2026
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Starting a new career can be daunting, whether you are a recent graduate or thinking of switching careers. But with the right skills, a positive mindset, creativity and perseverance a career in fashion is more accessible than you think.
The Fashion Industry might be competitive, but it’s constantly growing and changing, meaning that there’s a clear need for transferable skills and creativity. You don’t necessarily need to be a designer to work in fashion, there’s an endless amount of possibilities.
We’ve gathered tips from some of our experienced tutors and talented students on how to get your foot in the door and start your career in fashion.
- Choose an area of fashion
- Knowledge is power
- Look for work experience
- Stay motivated and keep moving
- Network, Network!
- Know your fortes
- Be kind
- What's next?
1# Choose an area of fashion
"Many students who come to LCF are unaware of the various courses we do which cover all the fashion industry’s diverse and exciting careers. Do you want to work in fashion media, fashion business or fashion design? All of these are very different and require a different set of skills. So, researching these industries will help you narrow down the areas you want to focus on," says Carlyn McGuire, freelance designer and senior fashion design lecturer at London College of Fashion.
Get out there and start thinking about what area of fashion you’d like to work on. By doing so, you will be able to narrow down your job search and tailor your CV to focused experience.
"Be clear about where you want to sit in the industry," says Toby Meadows, UAL Short Courses tutor and visiting lecturer at London College of Fashion, "as there are many different roles beyond design." Toby is the international bestselling author of 'How to Set up & Run a Fashion Label' and the founder and Director of TNM Consultancy Ltd, a collective of fashion professionals providing creative and business services to the fashion industry.
Toby runs our Essential Guide to the Fashion Business Short Course, which will introduce you to the different areas of the fashion industry business, giving you an insight into how they all work, and an idea of which area you might like to work in. For anyone looking to build their own fashion business, Toby also teaches our Complete Fashion Business Online Short Course, which will guide you through the practical aspects of running your own business.
2# Knowledge is power
It may sound obvious but gaining the right skills is essential, knowledge is power and knowing what the industry you are getting into is like can be lifesaving.
"We don’t all possess every single skills or knowledge that make us fashion experts, but you can learn what is specific to your career aspirations and goals. Studying at any level helps to learn the essential skills and knowledge to support a successful career. You can choose a foundation course or BA, or you can select career-specific shorter courses that suit your individual needs and lifestyle. All we give you is skills that you will use to build your future in fashion, and you meet likeminded people that become your networking community in the future!" adds Carlyn.
"For anyone looking to start a career in fashion, my top advice would be: first, understand how the industry works as a business, not just a creative sector," says Toby.
3# Look for work experience
Finding a fashion internship can be difficult but getting as much experience as possible can go a long way. You should approach lots of companies, even if you feel like there’s no chance of getting in. "Gain practical experience wherever possible," says Toby, "seeing how companies operate is invaluable."
Noorin Khamisani, founder of an independent sustainable fashion business, Outsider and Fashion sustainability tutor believes that work experience was the key to starting her career, "I studied a BA in Fashion Design and then spent a year doing internships to build up my CV. From there I got my first job and worked in the industry for over 6 years before starting my own label (Outsider)."
If you already have a job, for example in retail. Go beyond your role, use your position and enhance it. You will find that eagerness to do things and be creative will be welcomed.
Toby tells us that he first started his fashion career working as the Industrial Liaison Officer at London College of Fashion. "My role involved visiting hundreds of fashion companies to better understand how they worked, the types of roles they needed, and how we could better connect students with opportunities in the industry. That experience gave me a unique overview of how fashion businesses actually function - from design and production through to sales, marketing and distribution.
Over time, that insight led me to start supporting individuals who were looking to develop their own fashion businesses. I began delivering courses and mentoring emerging talent, which eventually led to writing 'How to Set Up & Run a Fashion Label'. Since then I’ve developed and delivered programmes internationally to help new designers and entrepreneurs understand how to build sustainable fashion businesses."
4# Stay motivated and keep moving
Enthusiasm and perseverance are important. It will probably take time before you find yourself in your dream job. Every experience will bring you one step closer to your goal.
"My advice is to have a lot of love for what you do and a lot of determination. The key to staying motivated is great ambition and a lot of willpower. Don’t be discouraged if there are problems and do not rush to see results immediately," explains Beatrice d’ Alessandro, LCF alumna, swimwear designer and founder of Bain De Maillots.
Don’t give up at the first challenge or rejection, keep moving and reminding yourself why is it that you chose it. "Your skills may not be suited for all, but the right opportunity will come," adds Carlyn.
"Stay adaptable and open to learning, because the industry is constantly evolving," Toby advises.
5# Network, network!
Over 80% of job seekers say that their network has helped with their job search.
"Be proactive in networking, attending relevant events, keep up to date with the latest news. Explore all the career options available, many skills are transferable between job roles," says Noorin. "Be creative in your approach to job hunting, there are many ways to get your foot in the door," she continues.
And it’s true! Knowing your future employer can increase your chances of getting the job (given you left a good first impression). "Build strong relationships, as fashion is a collaborative industry," says Toby.
"Don’t wait for jobs to come up, or people to contact you. Get active in searching out opportunities, network and stay connected with other creatives (you never know!!). Believe in yourself, not everyone’s journey to a successful fashion career is the same so try what works for you," advises Carlyn.
So, get your network boots on! Attend events where you can meet those who work in your field of interest. Get your name out there and learn from the experts. Get career advice and find out about potential job opportunities. Remember: if they like you, they will remember your name!
6# Know your fortes
Knowing what you are good at is also essential. If you don’t know what you are good at, how will you sell yourself to future employers and know what areas to improve?
We all have dreams, but it’s important to be realistic. "Be honest with yourself. Within the fashion area, what are your strengths? What are you good at? What do you enjoy most? What are you not good at? Building on existing skills and qualities will build a career that has the potential for success," says Carlyn.
If you know what you are good at you will be able to reflect that in your portfolio, job interviews and professional presence.
7# Be kind
This is starting to sound a bit like self-help but, being kind to people you work with is key, but also remember to be kind to yourself!
"You need to be both a team player and be able to work under your own steam. Enthusiasm, persistence and energy are essential. You also need to be organised and professional. Most importantly, always be polite, it's a smaller industry than you'd think, and you often bump into the same people," says Noorin.
8# What’s next?
The fashion industry is changing daily, and so is the formula for getting in. Be creative! Don’t be scared to change things up a bit, start your own project and let your creative juices flow!
If you are keen to move forward, a good place to start is by developing your skills and industry knowledge with a short course.
Take a look at our upcoming fashion business short courses to find out how they can help you.
Story updated by UAL Short Courses 20 March 2026.
