Interviewing for a job in the fashion industry requires many of the same skills you will use in a fashion career including attention to detail, industry expertise and confidence. When you are asked a question, answer with conviction to present yourself in the best possible light. If you feel a bit jittery as your appointment approaches, "try on" a few basic interview questions as you prep other important details, such as your wardrobe and portfolio.
Education and Experience
In the world of fashion, an education takes both traditional and nontraditional forms. If you are applying for your first job, you may want to reemphasize key information presented in the education section of your resume. For example, if you received a Bachelor of Fine Arts in fashion design and interview for a job at a fashion magazine, mention your minor in creative writing to further establish your suitability for the job. The fashion industry also recognizes talent in individuals with an eye for design despite a lack of formal education. If your skills were honed during internships or through other jobs, explain this when asked about your experience.
Skills
Whether you are applying for a job with a fashion magazine or a fashion house, avoid nurturing the quality of modesty during your interview. Relate the skills you bring to the table in a matter-of-fact manner when asked a variation of the query "Why are you the right person for this job?" Practice relating your web-publishing savvy, marketing abilities or incredible sewing technique before your interview, so you can answer the question without pause or the interjection of filler words and common statements, such as "I love fashion."
Knowledge
Fashion publications and designer brands require employee loyalty to stay at the top in these competitive fields, making your answer to the query "Why do you want to work here?" extremely important. Skip a generic comment like "I love that your focus is women's handbags," and state, "I think your specialty of providing women exiting college with affordable and professional leather totes helps them enter the workforce with confidence, and I want to help expand marketing efforts toward this niche." The first statement is merely a comment. The second illustrates a detailed knowledge of the company's target demographics and product lines, also inserting how you can contribute to the business. Competitive employers need motivated, intelligent workers. Demonstrate both of these qualities in your answer.
Portfolios
When you are applying for a position that requires a review of relevant past work, the interviewer typically requests a copy of your portfolio. However, if she does not, introduce your portfolio while relating your skills, experience or education. Consider offering your past work with a statement such as, "I brought a portfolio containing samples of my freelance fashion pieces for major magazines," instead of asking, "Do you want to see my portfolio?" Avoiding a yes or no question helps increase the odds that your work will actually be reviewed.
