The fashion industry can be intimidating. The amount years of experience, competing with recent graduates, low paying jobs, revising your resume, no responses to emails, and long hours.

And then there is Starbucks and Adobe Illustrator.

Yes, Adobe Illustrator.

When it comes to fashion, there is no rule book. There is no guidelines, step by step, and only mediocre how to’s. It just takes a whole lot of HUSTLE, persistence, and networking.

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with fashion stylist L.C at Under Armour for a casual interview. And I must say, this was one of thee most influential casual interviews I had thus far. We covered everything from her timeline getting into fashion industry to the different types of fashion styling. The advices she shared will forever remain with me.

Ironically speaking, the information stated to me last week is the same information I’ve gained from not only a Instagram Live fashion interview, but six years ago from my older cousin Tyra. Literally, I was able to maneuver within the medical field by using these strategic steps .

Thank You Tyra and L.C!

I am covering the “Tricks Of The Trade: Fashion Tips No One Knows About”. Before we get started, The information given in this content was based on my trial and error; however, the idea(s) was based upon collaboration of individuals mention above and myself. Let’s get started!

Researching: It’s all about being knowledgeable about your craft’s industry. I am guilty of this. In fashion, employers want applicants to be aware of the latest + upcoming trends, how are you contributing to the company, what do you know about the company, what transferrable skills sets are being used for , are you multi-facet, ability to work in a team, and computer savvy. We are talking more than just Microsoft Office Suite here. Best tip is : Narrow your search. Narrow your search will give you a clear direction and understanding. Jot down what excites you about fashion? Is it trying on clothes in a fitting room, offering advice to your friend(s) for date night, or posing in front of the camera? Try everything!
Questionnaires: Creating questionnaires is a great strategy to get to know about an individual and the industry they are in. The objective of questionnaires is to gain insight and feedback from their background. This appears that you are interested and willing to do whatever it takes. Best tip: Stick to five questions. If you can find the answer on their website, social media platform, its a rhetorical question.
Networking: Networking is very crucial and imperative. You never know who is connectted to whom, or what job may aligned attending a seminar, event, or meeting someone at a local coffee shop. Best tip: Be open- minded , inviting, and a good listener. Be yourself and the rest will follow !
Cards: Sending a “Thank you” card(s) goes a long way. A brief sincere message shows a sense of appreciation and gratitude of their time. Best tip: Mention the date and few details on what was shared in the conversation. If they influence you in away, acknowledge it with a sweet short statement.
Test shoots: As stated in my previous blog on “ How to get into the fashion industry”, I started creating editorial look books in 2015 due to no one gave me chance. I made a vow to myself. “ Im going to show up, and show out”. I’ve created look-books for three years straight, every other month. However, I stop curating, and started a bigger platform- blogging. Best tip: Connect with upcoming photographers who are looking for models. No nude shoots or boudoir shoots.
Persistent and Consistent:This should be #1. I do not know how many times I have heard this! Persistence beats talent any day.
LINKEDIN PREMIUM: The extra $30 to contact an HR representative from a brand you love or the assistant to Editor-in-Chief of Teen Vogue is so worth it! You may or may not receive a response ever. However, you have to be persistent, and try another approach. Figure out a way to draw people to you in your email without being desperate. Best tip: S.S.S= Short.Sweet.Simple.
There you have it, the “Tricks of the Trade: Fashion Tips No One Knows About”

XO

Char

Shirt: She Knows Her Worth

Pants: Urban Outfitters

Coat: H&M

Fanny pack: Rainbow

Shoes: Aldos