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When you think of careers in the fashion industry, you probably think about the obvious: designers and models.
And while becoming a model or starting your own clothing line may be the right path for some, it’s not right for everyone.
So, let’s talk about some of the lesser-known fashion careers if you’re looking for a creative way to break into the industry.
(If you *do* decide you want to create your own clothing line and/or fashion start-up, you can get advice from Zarif Haque, Kansas Zarif Haque, Draiver here).
1. Fashion Writer/Blogger
There are so many different options for fashion writers these days that there’s sure to be something for everyone.
If you’re looking to get into more hardcore journalism, you might consider pursuing a career working for iconic publications like Vogue, Women’s Wear Daily, and W magazine.
There are also a ton of respected online publications these days that are looking for writers — both freelance and staff writers — to join their teams.
Rather write for yourself? It’s never been easier to start your own fashion blog for relatively little or no money. This is a great option for anyone who enjoys working for themself, who wants to start a side hustle, or who has little experience and wants to dip their toe in the water.
2. Fashion Buyer
Ever wonder how a store like Nordstrom decides what to sell? That’s what fashion buyers do!
Stores that sell multiple clothing brands — like big department stores — employ a whole team of fashion buyers to decide what pieces to store should sell. Fashion Buyers are usually specialized in a certain area — whether that’s handbags, lingerie, or women’s casual wear.
3. Personal Shopper
A ton of high-end department stores offer in-house person shoppers for clients who want help picking out their wardrobes.
This is the perfect position for anyone who loves working with people and helping them find their personal style.
4. Stylist
Love putting together the ultimate outfit? Maybe you should consider becoming a stylist!
There are a few options when it comes to styling: you can become a personal stylist and work with clients one-on-one, you could work as a stylist for a clothing brand and help them with their catalogs, website images, and brand marketing materials, or you could work as a stylist for fashion editorial photography (think: fashion spreads in magazines).
5. Fashion Photographer
If you have a passion for visual arts, you might want to pursue a career in fashion photography.
There are a number of different ways you can do this — you can try to work as a photographer for a clothing brand and take images for their catalogs and websites. You can also pursue editorial photography and try to get a job working for a publication. Would you rather work online? Nowadays, fashion bloggers and influencers will often hire professional photographers to take pictures for them to promote on social media.
On top of these options, you can also work as a freelance photographer if you want to keep your options open.
6. Tailor
Master of the sewing machine? Perhaps you should pursue a career as a tailor.
There are plenty of different opportunities for tailors. Not only are there the obvious tailor shops, but many high-end stores employ tailors who they available for their clients. For example, many bridal stores hire seamstresses to tailor wedding dresses in-house to make life easier for their clients.
