Ever feel like the fashion industry is just too difficult to break? Well, it doesn’t have to be - there are plenty of different ways you can set yourself apart from others. With the summer break around the corner, finding a summer job that is fashion related is a great way to prove your dedication.

Here are three jobs you should think about chasing this summer if you’re hoping to find success in the fashion industry over the next few years.

 

Assistant buyer

It is sometimes possible to secure an assistant buyer role without having a higher education qualification. If you have strong communication skills and are confident using technology, this could be an amazing first step in your career. Assistant buyers are required by all types of companies in the industry, including department stores, supermarkets and high street chains. An assistant buyer must stay in-the-know when it comes to fashion, and has to be able to spot and up-and-coming trend a mile away. Typically, daily tasks will include range planning, budgeting and reviewing customer activity.

 

Personal assistant

OK, so The Devil Wears Prada might spring to mind here, but don’t worry - not all personal assistant jobs are similar to working for the dreaded Miranda Priestly. Although being a personal assistant is unlikely to involve skills that relate directly to fashion, it does provide you with one really important thing: a foot in the door. Once you’re working for a big company, it’s likely that they offer the chance to progress. Express your keen interest in fashion from the get-go and build good working relationships with as many people as possible. Then you have a chance of being the first person they come to when a new (and more exciting) opportunity arises.

 

Retail assistant

There are hundreds of fashion retailers to choose from, particularly if you’re living in London. This gives you plenty of opportunity to secure a retail position over the summer break. It may not be the most glamorous role, but it certainly has its advantages. For starters, you can demonstrate that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to work in fashion. You may find opportunities for progression, or transferring to different departments within the same company. Also, you could find where your true passion lies or which aspect of fashion interests you most, helping you have clear direction when it comes to building your career path.

 

 If you’re interested in building a career in fashion, take a look at our undergraduate fashion courses.