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Job interviews in the fashion industry are unlike any other. Forget the usual corporate drills about strengths, weaknesses, and five-year plans. In fashion, the questions are tailored to creativity, industry know-how, and personal flair. The good news? With a bit of research and preparation, you can walk into any room with confidence.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed or unprepared for these interviews, you’re not alone. Fashion schools often teach you how to sew, sketch, or style, but they rarely cover how to nail a job interview in this competitive field. Let’s break down exactly what to expect and how to stand out.

Know Your Designers

A common question in fashion interviews is, “Who is your favourite designer?” It sounds simple, but many fall into the trap of giving generic answers like “Chanel” or “Gucci” without knowing who currently leads those brands. Don’t be that person.

Here’s the key: identify not just your favourite brands but the creative minds behind them. For example:

• If you love Balmain, mention Olivier Rousteing, not “Balmain”.
• If you adore Gucci, credit Alessandro Michele, not just “Gucci”.

Take your research further by having two or three designers in mind. Be ready to explain why you admire their work. Perhaps it’s their aesthetic, storytelling, or innovative processes. Share examples, such as how a collection resonated with your personal style or career aspirations. This shows a genuine passion for fashion and your awareness of major players in the industry.

Research Your Interviewer

If you’re applying to work with a designer, stylist, or fashion house, tailor your answers to the person interviewing you. A simple compliment or reference to their work can leave a lasting impression.

Let’s say you’re interviewing for a role with a celebrity stylist. If they ask about your favourite stylists, ensure they’re on your list. For example:

• “I’ve admired your work since I saw that editorial for Harper’s Bazaar. The red dress you styled was unforgettable.”

You don’t need to overdo it, but small nods to their work show that you’ve done your homework. It proves you’re not just sending your CV to anyone but are genuinely interested in contributing to their unique brand.

Be Ready for “Why Fashion?”

“Why do you love fashion?” is another question you’ll hear often. Avoid vague answers like “I love clothes” or “I enjoy styling outfits.” Go deeper. What about fashion drives you?

For many, fashion is about self-expression. It’s transformative. A well-crafted outfit can make someone feel powerful, confident, or even unstoppable. When you wear a tailored suit, doesn’t your posture change? Similarly, a new dress can completely shift your mood.

Think about how fashion connects to your personal story or values. Share something meaningful. Maybe it’s your fascination with cultural influences in design, or how growing up sewing with a family member shaped your passion. Authenticity is key here—people can spot insincerity from a mile away.

The Five-Year Question

“Where do you see yourself in five years?” can be daunting if you haven’t mapped out your future. But don’t overthink it. The goal is to show you’ve thought about your career while aligning with the job you’re interviewing for.

If you’re applying for an e-commerce role but see yourself as a buyer in the future, mention that. For example:

• “In five years, I’d like to leverage this role to deepen my industry knowledge and eventually step into a buying position.”

Avoid unrelated career goals that have nothing to do with fashion. For instance, saying you want to be a chef while interviewing for a stylist role will raise eyebrows. Keep your aspirations relevant, even if they’re not the exact job you’re applying for.

Talk Trends Like a Pro

While personal style is important, awareness of trends in the industry is critical. If an interviewer asks, “What are your favourite trends?” and you reply, “I don’t follow trends,” it might not go over well.

Instead, research current trends quickly before your interview. Popular platforms like Instagram and TikTok can give you insights into what influencers and celebrities are wearing. Whether it’s quiet luxury or bold maximalism, pick a couple of trends that resonate with you.

When discussing trends, tie them back to your personal perspective. For example:

• “I’ve been loving the rise of quiet luxury. It’s refreshing to see subtle, quality-focused fashion take centre stage this year.”

This shows you’re informed but not blindly following fads.

Know the Company Inside Out

“Tell us what you know about our company.” This question is a make-or-break moment. Walking in without researching the brand is a major red flag.

Start by visiting their website and social media pages. Understand their mission, values, and recent campaigns. If they’ve launched a collection recently, mention it. For instance:

• “I was so impressed by your recent campaign highlighting sustainable fabrics in eveningwear. It’s an inspiring direction that aligns with my values.”

If you’ve used their products or been a loyal customer, share that. Personal connections to a brand make your interest feel authentic.

The Importance of Studying

Preparation isn’t optional. The most successful candidates aren’t just passionate—they come prepared. Before an interview, brush up on:

• Industry leaders: Know key designers, influencers, and executives in your area of interest.
• Trends: Stay updated on what’s hot (and not).
• Company facts: Remember details like anniversaries, leadership changes, or notable achievements.

Take this example: During a phone interview with BCBG, mentioning it was their 25th anniversary left a memorable impression. Why? It showed genuine care and attention to detail.

Send a Thank-You Note

A little effort goes a long way. After your interview, send a handwritten thank-you note within 24 hours. Thank the interviewer for their time and mention something memorable from your conversation.

For example:

• “Thank you for meeting with me today. I loved our discussion about [specific topic].”

In today’s digital world, handwritten notes stand out. They show professionalism and effort—qualities any employer will value.

Stand Out With Passion and Personality

Fashion is an extremely competitive field, and skill alone won’t set you apart. Employers want to see that you’re passionate, dependable, and genuinely enthusiastic about working with them.

Show your uniqueness by aligning your personality with the job. Share why the company’s values or direction deeply resonate with you. Be excited yet professional—let your excitement shine, but keep it appropriate.

Fashion interviews are a chance to showcase creativity, knowledge, and passion. With preparation, you can transform the daunting experience into an opportunity to shine. Research the company, reflect on your motivations, and prepare authentic answers that highlight your strengths.

Remember, the fashion industry wants people who live and breathe their work. So, go out there, study hard, and let your passion speak for itself. The effort you put in today could shape your dream career tomorrow.