The Most Sought-Out Jobs in Fashion

Written by Valentine Fabre

Fashion is reputed for glamorous job opportunities and creative exchanges, rendering it a highly competitive industry. While this should not deter you from following your dreams and pursuing a career in fashion, it is important to be aware of the specific requirements associated with your desired role. 

So what awaits you at the end of the road? From creative direction to styling and buying, here are some of the most sought-after professions in fashion and luxury.

Creative Director

Probably the best-known job title on this list, the creative director is the one shaping a brand’s image and determining its design language. Hedi Slimane at Céline and Olivier Rousteing at Balmain are amongst the most famous ones operating today. 

The role’s appeal is two-fold, hinging on its inherent creative and artistic aspects as well as a loose definition of responsibilities. This leads brands to name creatives with no traditional fashion training, such as music artist Pharrell for Louis Vuitton. 

Overall, developing an extensive network of professionals, demonstrating a unique vision as well as a curated set of experiences is key for anyone pursuing this career path, making patience a fundamental asset. 

Fashion Editor

Which of us has not seen The Devil Wears Prada at an early age and dreamt of becoming the next Miranda Priestley? Undeniably iconic within the industry, the role of the fashion editor is highly challenging to reach due to its attractiveness. 

From close association with a wide range of counterparts — photographers, stylists, and designers, for example — the role is a beacon for creativity which makes it highly desirable. Yet, despite the multiplication of fashion magazines in recent years, the position has not become much more accessible. An extensive knowledge of the industry as well as a relevant degree in journalism will make the journey more feasible, while an emphasis on networking and a singular voice will be essential.

Financial stability will be one of the most challenging parts for most of those pursuing this route, as it is unfortunately the norm in the industry to undergo unpaid internships and low-paid opportunities to get a foot in the door.

Fashion Stylist

Whether working editorially, on the red carpet, in music videos or films, styling requires grit and resourcefulness in addition to creativity to truly stand out.

Responsible for developing wardrobes for models and artists on set, the stylist is usually hired by the art director and brands on a single project basis. This position offers many perks, such as the option to work on various projects simultaneously, however, it also involves a great deal of responsibility, specifically administrative and organisational, including managing clothing and accessories returns as well as liability insurance.

In addition, working freelance requires strong networking skills as well as budget planning, as many jobs have low remunerations and require many hours of work. 

Fashion Buyer

Perhaps less familiar than other entries on this list, the fashion buyer role is a highly sought-after position for young professionals looking to combine creativity with analytical skills.

Responsible for the selection and ordering of collection items, the fashion buyer must possess a strong sense for business as well as a creative mind. From knowing a retailer’s consumer base and their preferences to creating the right mix of items and brands which account for pricing, sustainability and representation concerns, the fashion buyer is heavily informed by data and strategy. 

Before heading down the road of fashion buying it is essential to research the market properly to understand which brands and companies have relevant openings. While opportunities may be limited, you can still acquire experience through placements and short-term internships. 

 Find similar and other opportunities directly at The Glowth Academy to secure your dream job.

Written by Valentine Fabre