Self-expression has been around since the beginning of time, with fashion being one of the most popular forms.
In fact, 82 percent of today’s consumers admit they need fashion brands to reflect their personality and sense of self.
And with the fashion industry worth an estimated $3 trillion globally, there’s no denying its power. So, it’s no surprise that more and more students are enrolling in fashion programs worldwide. If you’re considering a fashion career, you may wonder if getting a fashion degree is the right move for you. By understanding the advantages of having fashion expertise, you can make an informed decision that’s best for your future.
Advantages of Being in the Fashion Industry
Fashion trends are constantly changing, and there’s never a dull moment in the industry. That means it will take a lot before the sector crumbles under the weight of its creativity. Thus, making it a stable and secure place to work.
In addition, the industry is always on the lookout for new talent, making it easier to get your foot in the door. According to reports, the fashion industry’s labor force reached about 3,384 million in 2019.
More so, fashion professionals have many opportunities to use their creativity and move up the ladder quickly. And with the industry being so vast, there are many positions you can pursue with a fashion degree. No matter your interest, you’re sure to find a role that’s the perfect fit.
Is Fashion a Major?
Fashion is a major offered by many fashion schools. And a bachelor’s degree in fashion is the best way to prepare for a successful career path.
During your program, you’ll learn about different aspects of the industry, including fashion trends, design, history, and marketing. You’ll also develop skills such as creativity, teamwork, and communication. All these are essential to prepare students for success in the fashion industry.
Enrolling in a fashion program will also allow you to network with other students and professionals. You’ll make connections that can help you land a job after graduation. This way, you can start your career on the right foot.
Is Fashion Design a Good Career?
Fashion students can benefit from a wide range of careers in the design industry. This versatility enables you to tap into various opportunities in different fields. Unlike other majors, a fashion degree provides well-rounded skills and knowledge. And this makes you more marketable to employers. So, it is a good career path if you want to pursue a professional role in the fashion world.
What Types of Fashion Degrees Can You Study at University?
Different fashion courses equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for specific careers in the fashion industry. Here are some of the most popular types of fashion degrees:
Fashion Designers
Fashion design majors focus on exploring different types of fashion. A fashion design program helps students learn about personal design philosophy, garment construction, textile analysis, and more.
And although many designers are making a name on their own, most fashion designers have a fashion design degree. That’s why if you want to pursue a career as a fashion designer, it’s best to get a degree in fashion design.
Fashion Merchandiser
Fashion merchandising is an area of fashion that deals with fashion buying and selling. A fashion merchandiser is responsible for selecting the garments and products that need to be sold in a store.
Fashion merchandisers need to have an eye for detail and be up-to-date with the latest trends. They should also be excellent communicators and have strong negotiation skills. A fashion merchandising program will teach you about the different aspects necessary in this field. You will also get to know the ins and outs of retail management, from supply chain management to visual merchandising.
Fashion Journalists
Fashion media is also a booming industry. And with the rise of social media, fashion journalists are in high demand.
Fashion journalism degrees will equip you with the necessary writing styles and communication skills ideal for a career in the fashion scene. You’ll also learn about the different aspects of the industry, such as fashion vocabulary, trend analysis, and celebrity style.
Fashion Marketing
Most fashion degrees offer a concentration in design. However, marketing also plays a significant role in the fashion industry. After all, it’s responsible for promoting and selling fashion products.
In a fashion marketing program, students learn about fashion promotion, from creating fashion concepts to brand development. It also provides an avenue to sharpen practical skills and teach how to work on building their own creative vision.
Fashion Photographers
Another creative degree you can pursue is fashion photography. This major encourages students to learn about expression through visual communication techniques.
A fashion photographer is well-equipped in digital image production and manipulation. They also know how to tell a story using their photos. Moreover, they understand the different fashion styling and concepts to capture the perfect image for a fashion magazine.
Fashion Management
The fashion industry revolves around various individual and team projects. And if you want to pursue a managerial role, a major in fashion management is your best bet.
Fashion management degrees provide information about the different aspects of the industry, from fashion theory to brand management. Graduates of this degree also have the technical skills to perform trend forecasting and monitor consumer behavior. These are all relevant skills for running a fashion business.
Fashion Production
If you think the fashion design process is a complex one, you’re not wrong. Many steps are involved, from the initial sketch to the final product. And all these steps need to be managed efficiently.
And although computer-aided design is now widely used, the fashion industry still relies on human labor. That’s why a degree in fashion production is essential if you want to work in this field.
Fashion production programs teach students about the different processes involved in garment construction. You will also learn about patternmaking, fabric selection, and quality control. All these skills are essential in ensuring that the final product meets the required standards.
What Is the Best Degree To Get for Fashion?
There’s no single answer when it comes to the best fashion courses. The right degree for you will depend on your interests and career goals.
Taking a fashion design course is your best bet if you want to get into design. If you’re interested in the business side of fashion, taking a fashion merchandising or marketing degree is ideal. Meanwhile, if you want to pursue a career in fine arts, then a major in fashion journalism and photography is your best choice.
Whichever path you choose, remember that a degree is just the first step. To succeed in the fashion industry, you must be creative, passionate, and hardworking.
Do Fashion Majors Make Money?
With so many fashion shows at famous fashion capitals, the glitz and glamour of the industry can be pretty inviting. However, it’s important to remember that the fashion industry is competitive.
There are no guarantees when it comes to job security and salary. But if you’re willing to put in the hard work, a career in fashion can be very rewarding. So, it all boils down to your passion and determination.
What Is the Highest Paid Job in Fashion?
A fashion designer or stylist is typically the highest-paid job in the industry, with an average salary of $53,686 annually. But it’s essential to keep in mind that there are certain factors that can affect your earnings, such as experience, location, and the size of the company you work for.
Of course, having a master’s degree will give you an advantage. And if you want to increase your chances of landing a high-paying job, working for a big fashion house is your best bet. You can also try to get into the luxury market, known for its high wages.
The geographical location is also a determining factor. For instance, fashion designers in New York earn an average of $74,000 annually, while those in Los Angeles make $61,000 on average.
Is a Degree in Fashion Worth It?
A career path in fashion can be worth it if you have the passion and drive to succeed. And depending on your goals, there are many different majors to choose from.
If you’re serious about making a living in fashion, the best way to start is by taking the right courses. A degree will give you the foundation you need to start your career. But it’s also important to remember that a degree is not a guarantee of success. The fashion industry is very competitive, and you will need to stand out from the rest to make it. While a degree can give you an advantage, it’s not the only thing that matters.
To be successful in fashion, you must be creative, passionate, and hardworking. And if you have what it takes, go for it. Soon, you could be one of the industry’s top names.
Consider your goals and interests carefully before deciding on the best degree to get for fashion. There are many different aspects to this industry, so choosing a path that aligns with your skills and passions is important.
With hard work and determination, you can make a successful career in fashion and earn a good salary. Just remember that a degree is not the only factor that will contribute to your success. You must also be creative, passionate, and hardworking to make it in this competitive industry.
