How to build your fashion network – what to say and how to do it with confidence

How many times have you heard that you need to know someone to work in fashion? Having connections in the fashion industry could make it easier for you to get a job. This is true.

Among the many misconceptions related to the fashion industry, such as the belief of needing a fashion degree to work in this sector (here you can read what to study to work in fashion) the one related to your fashion network is not a false myth. So it’s true that your fashion network can help to get a job in fashion as many jobs in this industry are assigned through word of mouth. However, this is not absolutely necessary. You can get started even if you have zero connections like I did. And furthermore, anyone can build their fashion network from scratch already today.

Since when I started Glam Observer in 2014, my goal has always been to make the fashion industry accessible to all those who dream of it and to break down these barriers that seem to make this sector accessible only to a few selected people. If this is your first time reading an article on Glam Observer, you should know that 10 years ago when I dreamed of getting my first job in fashion, I had zero knowledge. And my family was not remotely tied to this industry. No friend of my friends worked in fashion, yet shortly after graduating (in management engineering) I managed to break into fashion, getting my first job at Alexander McQueen.

So, if right now the number of people you know who work in fashion is zero or almost, do not get discouraged because in this article I will reveal some strategies to build your fashion network with confidence.

How to build your fashion network – what to say and how to do it with confidence

In 2023 the old system of recommendations and connections to get a job is absurd and outdated. But it still seems to be among us. The positive side is that in 2023 everyone can talk to and know anyone from anywhere in the world. Until a few years ago, your family or friends had to know someone to be able to have some sort of connection. But today the only real connection you need to get started is an internet one.

Thanks to Instagram, LinkedIn, and emails, reaching out to anyone who works in fashion has never been so within everyone’s reach. You probably don’t find it very easy because starting a conversation with strangers might seem like a giant step. Especially if you’re an introvert, but I’m here to help.

Remember that networking is critical to your career.

So no matter how uncomfortable it may be, it has to become part of your weekly habits. Luckily, today you can start conversations online. So the embarrassment of speaking to people is dampened by a PC or smartphone screen, which should make everything easier. Also, remember that like you, the person you contact is also looking for new connections. And if you think that today you are nobody and that therefore why would anyone want to network with you, consider that you will soon be part of the sector too, so others know that you could return the favor soon.

In any case, starting a conversation seems terrifying: “What will we ever talk about? How do I start the conversation? That person is a total stranger, he’ll think I’m pushy. “

How many times have you thought that?

Commenting on every photo of your favorite editor including that of the wedding or of her child, so that she responds to your message or email, is not the right way to build connections. But if you show genuine interest in the person, there is nothing wrong with sending an email or a message on social media. Remember that with kindness and by respecting people’s times and spaces, you are never intrusive.

The first rule for starting conversations that don’t feel awkward is to connect with the right people.

How to choose who to network with?

Think about the role you want to pursue in fashion. If you want to become a fashion editor it is with other editors and people who work in the magazine industry that you should connect with. If you want to work in PR, network with those who work in PR in-house (in the single brand) and those who work in PR agencies. Surround yourself with people who do the job you would like to do or a very similar role.

Choosing the right people to connect with is crucial to building your fashion network. Because, at the end of the day, your connections should help you get into the job of your dreams. So choose wisely the people you start building relationships with and make sure they work close to the people and the department of your dreams. So if an opportunity comes up, you’ll be among the first to know.

What to say?

You are building professional connections so your conversation should stay on a professional level. You should not start a conversation by asking what they think about the weather, or how was the last trip they made… A good strategy to break the ice is to talk about how much you admire their work.

Did you read an article about a project from your favorite stylist or photographer? Did you see a recent LinkedIn update about a new role? Did you love one of their latest articles? Or the photos of an editorial campaign they worked on?

Take the opportunity to send an email to tell how much you admire their work and introduce yourself.

Attend Fashion Events

Have you ever attended a (fashion) event, even just online? They are not just a space to listen to a conference, or pursue any other main goal that the event intends: they are also networking events, so it’s a good excuse to start a conversation. After the event, you can connect both with people like you who attended the event and the speakers. Add them on LinkedIn saying something like “Hi, I attended today’s talk, I found your story and advice really motivating and useful. I would like to connect to stay in touch and to follow your career progress. ” or you can ask other questions related to the conversation held during the event.

If you happen to volunteer at fashion shows at New York fashion week, London fashion week, and so on, use this opportunity to talk to some professionals backstage. Of course, you should pay attention to finding the right moment, as runway shows are a busy time for everyone. But try to find a moment to talk to a stylist, PR manager, or any other professional who works behind the scenes and whom you admire. You can pass them over your CV and ask if there is an internship or opportunity available so you could assist them with something. And email them after the event by saying you appreciated your talk and attaching your resume or other documents you agreed on sending, and keep in touch.

Every message or email you send must be very personal.

Do not use copy-paste formulas. Remember that the goal is not to add as many people as possible to your fashion network or on LinkedIn, but to create profitable bonds with a few people who can make a difference in your career. (Speaking of LinkedIn, if you want to increase the chances of someone accepting your connection request, send a personalized note and explain why you are requesting that person to join your network, such as still using the strategy of sending an email to compliment about her professional career. Or that you are a student and one day you would like to pursue a similar career and therefore want to follow her career progress).

Not all the connections you make will turn into career opportunities.

This is okay. Sometimes your contact today may come in handy in a few years, other times you will only meet interesting people you add to your overall experience. Don’t feel the pressure to get something back immediately. Networking is a marathon, not a sprint. Start today and never stop. In every moment of your career, there will always be a connection that will come in handy. Today it could be to enter the fashion industry, tomorrow to land a job, and in the future to ask for advice or return the favor by offering your support.

Don’t build relationships for convenience. Even if you are connecting with people who do the job you would like to do, remember that you are talking to a person just like you – not a simple label with a nice role on it.

Tips To Build A Fashion Network

To wrap up, here are some pills for you to build your fashion network:

• the relationship must be reciprocal, do not just ask
• be kind, always
• there is nothing wrong with not receiving an answer. Make sure that you are doing everything correctly, and then continue to contact other people who are on your list
• the best places to find people who work in fashion are LinkedIn and Instagram. Through LinkedIn, you can search based on your favorite companies and find people who work there, also by filtering the city, or you can search by career: fashion marketing, fashion buyer, editor, stylist …
• keep an Excel file organized with the list of who you would like to contact, who you have already contacted, who has answered you …
• it is normal to feel anxiety, accept it, and then hit send. It will all be fine.
• set a weekly goal: for example, this week I’ll reach out to at least 3 people, and do it
• connecting with peers is easier. So if you feel intimidated networking with managers and those who are more senior, start with fellow interns, assistants, students…

Want to get a job in fashion? Register for my free masterclass and I’ll teach you 3 unconventional strategies to stand out and land your dream job fast (even if you have zero experience!) Click here to register for free