To become a fashion journalist, schooling is not necessarily a requirement. But like other industries, it can set you apart from others in your field. Fashion journalism is a competitive industry (let’s face it, even mom has considered becoming the next Anna Wintour), but what will make you stand out? Check out these tips and checkpoints for landing a career in fashion journalism!
Starting Early
It’s never too early to start planning for your career, especially if you’re planning on a career in fashion journalism. Starting a blog is a great way to learn about the fashion industry, and can even open doors to various connections. Have any spare time between classes? Perfect! Grab a magazine and start flipping through those pages! Learning designers, photographers, and models is equally as important as taking on the college education. You’ve got to know your field! My Fashion Database is a great resource for learning about different people in the fashion industry, and trust me, it’s much more fun than your demanding Algebra class.
MY FASHION DATABASE
Choosing the School
When choosing what college I would attend, the biggest hurdle was trying to find a school that would fit all of my needs. I came to the conclusion (after an embarrassing amount of time) that finding a school that offered fashion and journalism as major choices would be difficult to come across. Instead, I chose a school that has a fantastic journalism program, and decided I would intern in the fashion industry. Google can’t tell you what school is right for you, which is also what I learned in my college hunt, but it is a great tool to learn more about the schools, the surrounding areas, and the job opportunities afterwards. Personally, I would narrow down your choices to three main schools. As my tutor so delicately put it, “a favorite, moderate, and safe school.” Thank you, kind tutor, for your fantastic advice.
Do you need more information on colleges? No need to worry, check out this great website to help you in your search!
COLLEGE SEARCH
Choosing the Major
So you’ve pinpointed three main schools, and you’re ready to apply. One aspect of the application process is choosing your intended major. I know what you’re thinking, “who can expect me to know my major before I’ve even entered college?” My thoughts exactly. In my opinion (please don’t shoot the messenger), journalism is a great major choice for a career in fashion journalism. One of the best points about attending college is that you can choose your courses, and make them fit with your career choice. Considering writing for a magazine? Not a problem. Finding classes that fit with your career path is the fun part!
College? No Thanks
Is college not something you see for yourself? No problem. Anna Wintour felt the same way, and she’s now an international fashion icon and highly influential editor-in-chief. There are other ways to achieve a career in fashion journalism, such as tackling internships to gain experience. Aside from internships, writing freelance (such as contributing articles to various websites, especially Chictopia!) is also a great way to get hands on experience. Also, you may want to consider checking out local writing courses in order to exercise your writing, remember, practice makes perfect!
Finding an internship in the fashion industry can be challenging. Check out these websites to find the perfect match!
ED 2010
FASHION CAREERS
JOURNALISM AND WRITING COURSES
The Wrap Up
In other words, a college education isn’t necessarily required, but it can set you apart from others coveting a career in fashion journalism. If you do decide on higher education, remember to choose the college that works right for you. There are always internships, writing classes, and freelance contributions to give you hands on experience! Remember, those who are most successful in their careers are those who know their field, and who love what they’re doing. So, fashionistas, are you ready for a career in fashion journalism?!
Image via Mario Testino for Vogue
