A fashion internship: the dream of many aspiring fashion professionals. Visions of stylish colleagues, designer collaborations, model encounters, and chic office attire fuel this widespread aspiration. However, the reality of a fashion internship can be vastly different from the glamorous facade. Before diving headfirst into the industry, it’s crucial to understand the full spectrum of experiences – the good, the bad, and the ugly.
Several former fashion interns have shared their experiences, offering insights into the realities of working in this demanding field. Their stories provide valuable lessons for those considering a fashion internship.
One intern described the grueling yet rewarding nature of working for a fashion brand featured on QVC. Daily tasks included errands to distributors in New York City’s Garment District and preparing clothes for photoshoots. The less glamorous side involved measuring inseams and meticulously documenting color patterns for internal records. This experience highlighted the dichotomy of the fashion industry: outwardly focused on creative expression, yet behind the scenes, driven by detailed and often tedious tasks. Beyond the core responsibilities, this intern also recounted less-than-ideal experiences, such as extravagant personal errands for superiors.
Another intern’s experience at a couture fashion house revealed the challenges of an overcrowded internship program. With a significant number of unpaid interns competing for limited tasks, the learning experience often felt disorganized and lacking direction. However, this intern took the initiative to actively seek opportunities, asking questions and offering assistance wherever possible. This proactive approach led to valuable hands-on experience, including participation in Market Week, behind-the-scenes PR work, and networking opportunities that culminated in an invitation to assist with a New York Fashion Week show. This highlights the importance of proactivity and a willingness to learn in a competitive internship environment.
A third intern’s experience at a high-end fashion company underscored the stark contrast between the industry’s external image and its internal workings. The lack of personal interaction and the prevalence of unpaid positions created financial and emotional stress. Despite these challenges, the intern gained invaluable experience observing design meetings, assisting with photoshoots, and even orchestrating a model casting call. This experience demonstrated the importance of resilience and the ability to find value even in challenging circumstances. The intern was able to witness firsthand the creative process behind a fashion line, offering a unique and insightful learning experience.
These diverse experiences reveal that Fashion Internships can be both demanding and rewarding. While the glamour may be less prevalent than imagined, the opportunities for learning, networking, and gaining practical experience are significant. Aspiring fashion professionals should approach internships with realistic expectations, a proactive attitude, and a willingness to embrace both the glamorous and unglamorous aspects of the industry. Ultimately, a fashion internship provides valuable insights into the realities of a career in fashion, helping individuals determine if this demanding yet rewarding field is the right fit for them.
