When considering a career in fashion, fashion designers and clothing brand owners are usually the first jobs that come to mind. But in reality, there are countless careers and roles available in the ever-evolving fashion industry - both in Australia and globally.
Collarts Fashion Marketing Program Leader Debbie Pratt identifies two major factors that are changing the industry as a whole right now – and in turn shaping future career opportunities open to graduates.
The first is an industry-wide push for sustainability. As consumers grow more and more aware of the environmental and ethical impact of the fashion industry, demand for more sustainable fashion practices is skyrocketing.
“Brands are increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials, ethical labour practices and circular fashion models,” Debbie explains.
“This shift has created roles in sustainable product development, ethical sourcing, and supply chain management. Sustainability consultants and professionals focused on compliance with environmental regulations are also in demand.”
She also sees huge opportunities created by the ongoing digital revolution, which has a significant impact on the way that both designers and consumers interact with fashion. The rapid rise in technology, like AI, VR/AR and data analysis, has created new ways for brands to evolve across the industry.Now more than ever, the way that brands market themselves, connect with their audiences and seek new opportunities for creative innovation is crucial for success. The digital world offers unique opportunities for creative fashion marketers to shine.
“Careers in fashion tech, digital marketing, e-commerce management and data analysis are expanding. As a result, roles such as Digital Content Creators, UX/UI Designers and e-Commerce Strategists are becoming increasingly vital," says Debbie.
Collarts’ Fashion Marketing courses offer a specialised education at the intersection of fashion and communications. The curriculum is designed for students who are passionate about the creative side of fashion, but also have an interest in honing their business and marketing skills.
“While a generic marketing degree provides broad skills that are applicable to many industries, a fashion marketing degree offers specialised knowledge, practical experience and specific skills tailored to the fashion industry,” explains Debbie. “This specialisation can provide students with a significant advantage if they’re passionate about pursuing a marketing or merchandising career specifically within this industry.”
By choosing one of two educational streams within the field of Fashion Marketing, students have control over the trajectory of their own careers.
Graduates from the Branding & Communications stream are uniquely suited to becoming Creative Directors, Brand and Marketing Managers, PR Managers, Content Creators, Stylists, Social Media Managers and eCommerce Coordinators. These roles require creative minds with a drive for innovation and effective communication. They define a brand and elevate the relationship between designer, garment and wearer.
The Buying & Retail Management stream produces industry-ready Fashion Buyers, Visual Merchandisers, Product Developers and Merchandising Coordinators. Graduates from this stream gain the key skills to shape brands from within, helping to develop, curate and execute products that build a brand identity and attract customers.
Successful Collarts graduates who quickly start fashion careers have three common traits: openness, eagerness and flexibility.
“It’s important to always be curious,” Debbie explains. “To keep learning and evolving, and to allow your career to expand as you embrace new opportunities along the way.”
Networking and making connections as early as possible is also highly encouraged. This is also included in the Collarts curriculum, where students consistently work with other creatives and industry contacts, both in and out of the classroom.
“We engage students with guest speakers, masterclasses, collaborative industry projects and an internship,” says Debbie. “They’re taught by practitioners and lecturers with significant industry experience, engaging in current real world topics that impact the fashion industry.”