How To Get An Entry-Level Fashion Job Or Internship In Paris

Getting started in the fashion industry can be an exciting and challenging journey. You are excited about walking into your favorite offices and finally turning your childhood passion into your full-time job and to. To do so, you might be considering getting a job in one of the fashion capitals and perhaps you are now thinking about the French one: Paris (perhaps because you watched Emily in Paris?).

Working in the fashion industry in Paris is a dream come true for many aspiring fashion professionals. The city’s rich history, distinctive fashion culture, and the presence of prestigious luxury brands make it an enticing destination for those seeking to immerse themselves in the world of style and creativity. Paris offers unparalleled opportunities for aspiring fashion professionals including entry-level jobs in the fashion industry, or internships. In Paris, you’ll find the headquarters of some of the most prestigious luxury fashion brands in the world.

The city is home to renowned fashion houses like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Saint Laurent, Hermès, and Givenchy, to name just a few. These iconic brands have shaped the fashion industry. And continue to set trends with their exquisite designs, craftsmanship, and timeless elegance. Working for one of these luxury fashion brands in Paris offers incredible opportunities to be part of the creative process, collaborate with top talents, and contribute to the legacy of these esteemed houses. The city’s rich fashion heritage and the presence of these influential brands make Paris an ideal destination for those aspiring to excel in the world of luxury fashion.

However, with fierce competition, it’s essential to have practical strategies to increase your chances of success. In this article, we will share valuable tips to help you navigate the path to securing an entry-level fashion job or internship in Paris.

How To Get An Entry-Level Fashion Job Or Internship In Paris

Considerations Before Moving to Paris

If you are not living in France yet and you want to move there to get an entry-level job or internship in Paris, know that you can do it but it’s better to do your research first. Before embarking on your journey to Paris, it’s crucial to consider a few factors. Research the cost of living, housing options, visa requirements, and any necessary language skills. Paris is an expensive city, so it’s important to have a financial plan in place. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the French work culture and fashion industry landscape to better understand the expectations and dynamics of the industry in Paris. If you don’t speak French already, make sure that you start learning the language. Because although many fashion offices speak English, French is definitely appreciated and can be your competitive advantage.

Living and working in Paris is an exciting experience that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and fashion. The city is known for its vibrant neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and unparalleled art scene. I know you are already visualizing yourself with a croissant in your hands while walking down the beautiful streets of Paris heading to the offices of your dream luxury brands. However, it’s important to be prepared for the fast-paced lifestyle. And the high standards expected in the fashion industry in Paris.

Working in fashion in this city requires a strong work ethic and a drive for excellence. Deadlines are often tight, and attention to detail is crucial. After all, this is the home of the world’s top haute couture houses. This challenging atmosphere is balanced by the immense satisfaction that comes with seeing your creations come to life and making an impact in the fashion world. Working under pressure becomes a catalyst for growth and fuels your passion for the industry.

Fashion Events in Paris

Paris is renowned for hosting prestigious fashion events throughout the year. Haute Couture Week, Paris Fashion Week (both men’s and women’s), and other fashion weeks dedicated to specific segments of the industry attract fashion professionals, influencers, and enthusiasts from around the world. These events provide an excellent platform to connect with industry insiders, and gain inspiration. Paris offers numerous fashion exhibitions at the different museums in town (Dior La Galerie and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, just to name a few), conferences, and trade fairs that provide valuable networking , inspiration and learning opportunities.

The last time I visited Paris and went to Dior La Galerie and the YSL Museum, I felt immediately a huge dose of inspiration and motivation that reminded me further of my passion for this industry. Among the different fashion cities I visited – London and New York (and I do live in Milan) – I believe that Paris is the one that can immediately spark inspiration and motivation even if you feel like it’s lacking. 

Internship Regulations in France

Internships are a common path to gaining experience and breaking into the fashion industry if you don’t have experience yet. In France, internships are regulated to protect the rights of interns. The duration of an internship is typically limited to six months. And interns are entitled to certain benefits such as a minimum salary, access to social security, and working hour restrictions. 

Once you’ve done your research, it’s time to go and look for your entry-level job or internship in Paris.

Research and Identify Target Companies

Begin by researching and identifying fashion companies in Paris that align with your interests and career goals. Look for luxury fashion houses, design studios, fashion PR agencies, fashion publications, or fashion event organizers. Explore their websites, social media platforms, and career pages to find information about internship programs and application processes.

Fashion companies with offices in Paris

There are numerous fashion companies with offices in Paris, including both renowned luxury brands and emerging designers. 

LVMH (Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton) and Kering are both major players in the luxury fashion industry. And their headquarters are situated in Paris. These conglomerates own and manage multiple renowned fashion brands, encompassing various sectors such as fashion, accessories, perfumes, and cosmetics. Interning or working for LVMH or Kering provides an exceptional opportunity to gain exposure to their diverse portfolio of prestigious fashion houses and contribute to the dynamic fashion landscape in Paris.

Here are some notable fashion companies that have offices in Paris:

Chanel:

A legendary luxury brand known for its timeless elegance and iconic designs, Chanel has its headquarters and main design studio in Paris. Interning or working for Chanel offers a unique opportunity to be part of a fashion powerhouse with a rich history.

Louis Vuitton (LVMH):

As one of the world’s leading luxury fashion brands, Louis Vuitton is synonymous with sophistication and craftsmanship. With its headquarters in Paris, interning or working for Louis Vuitton allows you to contribute to their renowned collections and explore the intersection of fashion and art.

Dior(LVMH):

Known for its exquisite couture designs, Dior is a global luxury brand that calls Paris its home. Interning or working for Dior provides an immersive experience in the world of high fashion. Where you can witness the meticulous craftsmanship and innovative creativity that defines the brand.

Saint Laurent (Kering):

Founded by Yves Saint Laurent, this luxury fashion brand is known for its edgy yet elegant designs. With its headquarters in Paris, working for Saint Laurent exposes you to the brand’s distinct style and its influence on the fashion industry.

Hermès:

Renowned for its luxurious leather goods, accessories, and iconic silk scarves, Hermès is a prestigious fashion brand with its roots in Paris. Interning or working for Hermès allows you to witness the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to quality that the brand is famous for.

Givenchy (LVMH):

Known for its fusion of elegance and modernity, Givenchy is a French luxury brand that has its headquarters in Paris. Working for Givenchy offers the opportunity to be part of a brand that continuously pushes boundaries and creates bold and innovative fashion.

Balmain:

With its Parisian roots dating back to 1945, Balmain is a fashion house renowned for its distinctive and glamorous designs. Interning or working for Balmain exposes you to the brand’s unique aesthetic. And its influence on both couture and ready-to-wear fashion.

Isabel Marant:

Founded by the designer of the same name, Isabel Marant is a Paris-based fashion brand celebrated for its effortlessly chic and bohemian-inspired designs. Interning or working for Isabel Marant allows you to be part of a brand that epitomizes Parisian cool.

Chloe:

The feminine and free-spirited Maison was founded in 1952 by Gaby Aghion. Joining Chloe is a way to be part of a brand that creates all its ready-to-wear apparel and accessories in Paris.

Vogue France:

The French edition of the top high-end magazine has its offices in Paris. If you want to pursue a career in the editorial, this may be a great place for you.

These are just a few examples of fashion companies with offices in Paris. The city boasts a rich and diverse fashion landscape. And provides opportunities to work with established luxury brands, emerging designers, fashion PR agencies, fashion publications, and more. Exploring the varied fashion scene in Paris can open doors to exciting career prospects and invaluable industry experience.

In this article, we wrote about the different departments inside a fashion company. So if you are undecided between two careers or you are simply wondering at this stage what the different departments there are, take a look.

Together with searching on brands’ websites, you can even look for entry-level fashion jobs and internships in Paris via LinkedIn.

Once you’re logged in, click on the “Jobs” tab located on the top navigation bar. This will take you to LinkedIn’s job search page.

In the search bar at the top of the page, enter keywords related to the fashion industry and internships or entry-level positions. Examples include “fashion internship,” “fashion assistant,” “fashion trainee,” or simply just “fashion” as I did in the example above. 

In the advanced search filters, you can customize your search to focus on entry-level or internship positions in the fashion industry in Paris. Here are some filters to consider:

a. Location:

In the “Location” field, enter “Paris” or select “Paris Area, France” from the dropdown menu to target opportunities specifically in Paris.

b. Experience Level:

Under the “Experience Level” section, select “Entry level” or “Internship” to filter for positions suitable for those starting their careers or seeking internships.

c. Job Type:

You can further narrow your search by selecting “Internship” or “Full-time” under the “Job Type” section to focus on these specific opportunities.

If you want to save your search criteria and receive email notifications for new job postings that match your filters, click on the “Create job search alert” option. This way, you’ll stay updated on the latest entry-level and internship opportunities in the Paris fashion industry.

LinkedIn will display a list of job postings that match your search criteria. Browse through the results and click on individual job listings to view the full details. If a position interests you, click the “Apply” button to start the application process as directed by the job posting.

If you cannot find any job or internship you like you can cold email your favorite brands. This is my favorite strategy to stand out and break into fashion. I teach more about this in my free webinar. Register here. 

Tailor Your Application 

Fashion is very competitive. On average, 500 people apply for the same entry-level job or fashion internship. So if you want to stand out you need to craft a customized resume and cover letter that highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and passion for the fashion industry. 

In France, a CV and a cover letter are standard documents to apply for a job or an internship, just like in other countries. French employers especially attach a high importance to the cover letter (“lettre de motivation”). It’s as much important as a CV. In fact, and not just an optional document. So it’s usually asked from candidates for any company and position they apply for. Why? Because recruiters in France value the motivation a lot. And they want to hear why the candidate is interested in this particular role. 

I recommend getting familiar with how resumes and cover letters are typically written in France because they follow a specific structure. Of course, what matters most is that your application is polished and easy-to-read. But if you also can adapt it to the local structure, it’s even better and you will score more points in your favor. 

Customize your application materials to reflect the specific internship and company you are applying to. Emphasize any relevant coursework, projects, or extracurricular activities that showcase your dedication to fashion. And your ability to contribute to the organization. 

Don’t worry if you don’t have experience yet or you didn’t study fashion at all.

These are in fact not necessary requirements to break into fashion. People working in fashion come from different backgrounds and studied different things: politics, business, marketing, economics, law… so even if you didn’t study fashion you can still get into the job of your dreams. Luxury fashion brands value candidates who align with their brand identity, values, and aesthetic. It’s crucial to research and familiarize yourself with the brand’s philosophy, history, and target audience. Showcasing an understanding of the brand’s DNA and demonstrating how you can contribute to its unique identity can make a strong impression. Fashion companies in Paris place a strong emphasis on professionalism and attention to detail. Especially luxury fashion houses such as LVMH or Kering. They seek candidates who can uphold the brand’s image and standards in all aspects of their work. Demonstrate your organizational skills, time management, and commitment to excellence.  

I teach more about tailoring your applications and other strategies to land your first job in fashion even if you don’t have experience yet in this free webinar.