Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Jackie,

What a great career choice! I recommend focusing on Journalism as your major in college. The basics are the same for all genres of writing, from sports and politics to fashion and style. You will need excellent writing, reporting, and editing skills. A minor in Fashion Merchandising is a wise choice and will do wonders for your knowledge of the fashion industry. A strong fashion education will give you insight into what you will be writing about and editing for. Another option is to enroll in a fashion program after you graduate from a four-year university. FIDM offers a two-year Associate of Arts program in Fashion Design and many of your general education credits will transfer.

It's so true that the best writers and editors base their work on real life experience. Get all the exposure to the fashion world as possible by going to fashion shows and keeping up with the latest trends. Interning for a fashion magazine would be wonderful experience for your career! Being a journalist myself, I can't stress enough that your grammar, punctuation, spelling, and word usage have to be stellar. Start perfecting those skills now by taking lots of English and composition courses. Another great way to get a head start is to contribute articles to fashion websites and local fashion 'zines. Remember to stay focused and don't give up on your career goals. Good luck with your fashion writing!

Sincerely, Fashion Girl