7 Practical Tips for Finding Fashion Design Internships

Contents

1. Create a strong portfolio
2. Network in the fashion industry
3. Apply early for internships
4. Be open to various internship opportunities
5. Follow up on your applications
6. Show a willingness to learn
7. Utilize online resources

Have you ever wondered how to find fashion design internships? Well, you're not alone. Many aspiring fashion designers face this challenge. But worry not, because finding an internship in fashion design is not as daunting as it might seem. You just need a bit of guidance, some determination, and a dash of creativity. In this blog, we will explore seven practical tips that can help you land that dream internship. Let's dive in!

Create a strong portfolio

Firstly, one of the best ways to catch the eye of fashion companies is by creating a standout portfolio. This is your chance to showcase your design skills, creativity, and personal style. So, how can you build a strong portfolio?

• Include your best work: Quality over quantity is the golden rule here. Rather than stuffing your portfolio with every sketch you've ever made, handpick your most impressive pieces. These should clearly show your talent, versatility, and growth as a designer.
• Present a diverse range of designs: Whether it's evening gowns, sportswear, or street style, make sure your portfolio reflects a wide spectrum of designs. This demonstrates that you are adaptable and can work on different fashion projects, which is a plus when trying to find fashion design internships.
• Tell a story: Don't just present your designs; weave a story around them. What inspired you? What was the design process like? What fabrics did you use and why? This will give potential employers a glimpse into your creative process and your ability to communicate effectively.
• Keep it up-to-date: As you continue to hone your skills and create new designs, make sure to update your portfolio. This shows that you are constantly learning and improving, which is a quality that fashion companies appreciate.

Remember, your portfolio is like your visual resume. It's the first impression you make on potential employers. So, take the time to polish it, refine it, and make it the best representation of your abilities. And who knows? It might just be the key to unlocking the door to your dream fashion design internship.

Network in the fashion industry

Networking is one of the most effective ways to find fashion design internships. If you think about it, people are more likely to recommend someone they know and trust, right? So how can you network effectively in the fashion industry?

• Attend fashion events: Fashion weeks, trade shows, and launch parties offer excellent opportunities for networking. You can meet industry professionals, strike up conversations, and even make valuable connections that could lead to internship opportunities.
• Join online communities: There are countless online forums, groups, and communities dedicated to fashion design. Joining these platforms can not only help you stay updated with the latest trends and news in the industry, but also connect with other designers and fashion enthusiasts.
• Reach out to industry professionals: Don’t hesitate to reach out to fashion designers, stylists, and other industry professionals. You can express your interest in their work, ask for advice, or even inquire about potential internships. Remember, a simple message can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities.
• Use social media: Platforms like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter can be powerful networking tools. You can follow fashion brands, engage with their posts, and even showcase your own designs. Many companies post about internships on their social media channels, so keep an eye out for these opportunities.

Networking might seem intimidating at first, but with practice, it gets easier. Remember, everyone you meet could potentially open a new door for you in the fashion industry. So get out there, start connecting, and you might just find the fashion design internship of your dreams.

Apply early for internships

Want to know a nifty little secret on how to find fashion design internships? The early bird gets the worm! Applying early for internships increases your chances of landing one. But why is this the case?

• Less competition: When you apply early, there's generally less competition. This means your application has a higher chance of catching the attention of the internship coordinator.
• More time to prepare: Applying early gives you more time to prepare for interviews and any potential design tasks. The more prepared you are, the better you'll perform, and the higher your chances of securing the internship.
• Shows your interest: Applying as soon as internships are advertised shows you're eager and genuinely interested in the company and the role. Companies appreciate applicants who show initiative and enthusiasm.

Keep in mind that many fashion companies start their internship recruitment process several months in advance. So, set reminders, mark your calendars, and get your applications in as soon as possible. Remember, the early bird doesn't just get the worm—it also gets the fashion design internship!

Be open to various internship opportunities

Another practical tip on how to find fashion design internships is to broaden your horizons. Don't limit yourself to only the big-name fashion houses or your dream companies. There's a whole world of opportunities out there!

Here's why considering various internship opportunities can be beneficial:

• Diverse experiences: Each company is unique, with its own design philosophies, work culture, and methodologies. Working in different environments can expose you to a variety of practices and perspectives, enriching your knowledge and skills.
• Discovering hidden gems: Smaller or lesser-known brands often offer unique experiences and learning opportunities. They might give you more responsibility or closer interaction with the design process than larger companies. You never know—you might stumble upon a brand that aligns perfectly with your style and ambitions!
• Improving your odds: Simply put, the more internships you apply for, the better your chances of landing one. It's a numbers game. And who knows, you might find yourself loving an opportunity you initially didn't consider.

So don't pigeonhole yourself. Get out there and explore the vast, vibrant world of fashion design internships. Remember, diamonds can turn up in the most unexpected places!

Follow up on your applications

Once you've sent off your applications for fashion design internships, your job isn't done yet. Now comes a part that many people overlook but can make a big difference — following up on your applications.

Why is this so important? Here's what following up can do for you:

• Stand out from the crowd: It shows your interest and initiative, which can help you stand out in a sea of applicants.
• Keep your application on top: It can help keep your application on top of the pile or refresh the memory of a busy recruiter.
• Get feedback: Even if you didn't score the internship, a follow-up can provide valuable feedback that helps you improve your next application.

But remember, there's a fine line between showing interest and becoming bothersome. Wait for a reasonable period, say a week or two, before you touch base. Be polite and professional in your communication, expressing your enthusiasm for the role and your eagerness to hear back.

Following up is an effective way on how to find fashion design internships that many people underestimate. So, don't forget to follow up on your applications!

Show a willingness to learn

It might sound obvious, but showing a willingness to learn is one of the most important factors when seeking fashion design internships. Remember, internships are all about learning and growing, so you need to show that you're eager to do just that.

How can you demonstrate your willingness to learn? Here are a few suggestions:

• Show curiosity: Ask thoughtful questions during your interview. This shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the company and role.
• Be open to feedback: Show that you can take feedback on board and use it to improve your skills. This is a crucial part of learning and growth.
• Express interest in learning new skills: Whether it's a new design software or a particular cutting technique, expressing interest in expanding your skill set can set you apart.

Remember, no one expects you to know everything when you're starting out. What they do expect is a willingness to learn and a positive attitude. This can make all the difference when you're figuring out how to find fashion design internships.

Utilize online resources

Let's face it, we live in a digital age where everything is at our fingertips. When trying to find fashion design internships, online resources can be your best friend. So, how can you make the most out of them?

• Online Job Portals: Websites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor have numerous listings for fashion design internships. You can filter by location, company size, and even the type of fashion you're interested in. It's like having a personal internship finder!
• Company Websites: If you have a dream brand or designer in mind, check out their website. Often times, they'll have a 'Careers' or 'Internship' page showcasing available opportunities.
• Fashion Blogs and Newsletters: Subscribing to fashion blogs or newsletters can keep you in the loop about industry news. Sometimes, these resources also feature job postings. It's a great way to stay informed and spot opportunities.

Remember, the internet is a vast place, and it's easy to feel lost. Having a clear goal in mind—like finding a fashion design internship—can help guide your search and make the process less overwhelming. So, go ahead and Google 'how to find fashion design internships?' to kickstart your journey!

If you're looking to land a fashion design internship and want to explore alternative routes in the industry, check out Aaron J Hurley's workshop, 'Intro To The Fashion Industry: The Untraditional Route.' This workshop will provide you with valuable insights and guidance on finding internships and navigating the fashion industry through unconventional paths.