Becoming a Fashion Editor: Steps to Follow

Introduction

If you are interested in fashion and writing, becoming a fashion editor may be the ideal career path for you. This article outlines the key steps you must follow to build a successful career as a fashion editor.

Who is a Fashion Editor?

A fashion editor creates, reviews, and publishes fashion-related content. They work in the fashion section of a magazine, website, or TV program.

The responsibilities of a fashion editor vary. However, most of your work will involve watching other editors and writers and writing or editing articles. You might also have to plan and style fashion photo shoots, choose pictures for publication, submit suggestions for fashion products and brands, and analyze market trends. You will also network and collaborate with industry experts like photographers, designers, and public relations specialists.

How to Start a Career as a Fashion Editor

If you want to become a fashion editor, there are some steps you need to follow:

Step 1: Get a Degree

Although a high school education is sufficient to work in the fashion industry, a degree is essential to be a successful fashion editor. Most fashion editors have bachelor’s degrees, and some even have master’s degrees. It’s beneficial to have a degree in journalism or fashion-related courses.

Step 2: Acquire Skills

Apart from having a degree, fashion editors need to have specific skills, such as:

• Solid writing skills and a firm grasp of basic grammar and syntax.
• Management skills to oversee and distribute work to writers, reporters, or freelancers.
• Technical skills in using word processing and picture editing software to research, write, and edit text and photographs for a publication in fashion.

 Step 3: Gain Editorial Experience

Employers often prefer candidates with one to five years of editorial experience. A strong background in journalism is essential, so one option is to take an entry-level assistant editor or reporting position. Another option is to intern at a fashion magazine to learn practical skills and collect writing samples for your portfolio.

Step 4: Build Your Network

To handle the editorial content of a fashion journal, you must have an in-depth knowledge of and familiarity with the fashion industry and its major players. Therefore, creating a network and getting to know the best publicists, designers, and other business titans are beneficial.

Step 5: Build a Portfolio

Create a portfolio showing all your best works to win over potential employers. Portfolios allow you to showcase various abilities, including your sketching, sewing, and pattern-making talent. At first, you might have to fill your portfolio with the work you will do while earning your degree, so you should approach each project as if you were going to submit it to a future job.

Step 6: Apply for Job Opportunities

Start applying for job opportunities. Reach out to as many magazines and companies as you can. Be unique, and do not limit yourself.

Expected Salary of a Fashion Editor

Fashion editors make an average salary of $60,537 annually, equal to $5044 monthly, $1261 weekly, and $252 daily.

 What to Expect When Building a Career in Fashion Editing

Working in the fashion industry entails frequently coping with pressure and stress. However, it would be best if you did not allow it to impact you; instead, it should motivate you to perform your duties correctly and efficiently. Finally, an editor must possess a good sense of fashion and be current on the newest trends.

 Tips and Advice

Work Hard and Stay Devoted

Starting a career as a fashion illustrator takes time and effort. It can take years to rise from an intern or assistant to a professional fashion editor, but with dedication and perseverance, you can achieve your goals. To succeed in this industry, you must work hard and remain committed to honing your skills and gaining experience.

Develop Exceptional Skills

To be successful as a fashion editor, you need exceptional writing skills, cutting-edge organization, and attention to detail. This career is demanding, and you may need to work more than the standard 9 to 5. You must also be prepared to travel at short notice and cope with pressure and stress.

Stay Up-to-Date with Fashion Trends

Being knowledgeable about the latest fashion trends is essential for a fashion editor. You should regularly research and seek inspiration for your upcoming pieces. Reading various fashion publications and websites, following blogs and Instagram influencers, and visiting PR agents and press offices can help you stay informed about the latest brands and collections.

Networking and Persistence are Key

Building a career in fashion editing requires persistence and networking. While in school, work for the school newspaper, start a fashion blog or column, and use that to land an internship. Try for fashion magazine internships, but take any opportunity to gain experience. Use your first internship to get another one and keep making connections. Ask for help with your resume and cover letter, and be willing to move to where the jobs are. Keep working hard and never give up.

Conclusion

While the competition is tough, there’s no reason why you can’t become a successful fashion writer or editor. With dedication, persistence, and networking, you can achieve your goals and build a rewarding career in this exciting industry.

Becoming a fashion writer is an achievable goal, but it will require significant effort and determination. It’s essential to keep in mind that the number of available fashion journalism positions is limited, and specializing in this field can make the job search even more challenging. However, it’s worth pursuing if it’s your passion. You don’t have to be the best or most flawless writer to become a fashion writer for magazines, for instance, but rather be tenacious in your pursuit of opportunities and willing to relocate as needed to secure the positions you want.