Fashion assistant jobs are highly sought after for those looking to start a career in the fashion industry. Certain jobs are more competitive than others, but it's always a good idea to keep an open mind towards all of the positions, because any of them can lead you to your dream job eventually.
Fashion Magazine Assistant
Fashion magazine assistants have to work mostly with the clothing at photo shoots for magazines. Making sure the clothes are neat and easy to access for photo shoots, returning clothes and accessories to designers and assisting magazine editors with their numerous editing, writing and research needs are other important aspects of the job. This is a good position for someone who would like to be an editor of a fashion magazine someday. Having a fashion journalism or general journalism degree or background is helpful in getting a position.
Fashion Design Assistant
Fashion design assistants help the lead fashion designer by cutting patterns and performing other physical aspects of making clothes, all while taking a creative lead from the fashion designer. Having skills in pattern-making and being able to produce style illustrations are useful abilities to have. A degree is not necessary, but it can give you an edge over the competition if you have had formal training.
Administrative Assistant
Being an administrative assistant for a fashion house is unlike being a secretary to a loan officer -- it has a much more glamorous appeal. The skill set is typically the same, but the competition is a lot more fierce. Having clerical experience is a bonus, but also having some experience working in the fashion industry is helpful. Since you will more than likely have to place orders for materials and fabrics, it's a good idea to get comfortable with fashion terminology.
Fashion Show Assistant
Loading production kits into the venue and setting up the catering backstage are the duties that many fashion show assistants have to undergo. Having experience working on events is an effective way to get your foot in the door as a fashion show assistant. Since working under high levels of pressure and strict time constraints can be a major part of the position that comes with the perks of possibly rubbing elbows with models and top designers backstage.
References
Writer Bio
Christina Caldwell is a contributor for online publications such as Women's eNews and Little Pink Book. Her work has also been featured in the popular U.K. magazine "Black Heritage Today." Caldwell holds a bachelor's degree in marketing and communications.