The Fashion Careers Clinic Blog

Burberry Design Scholarship

2012-03-04T05:52:00.001-08:00

BURBERRY UNVEILS SCHOLARSHIP: Burberry has launched a new scholarship program with London’s Royal College of Art.

The Burberry Design Scholarship will provide the full two-year tuition costs for a number of RCA master’s students over a ten-year period, for a total of 25 MA students. The scholarship will be open to students studying for master’s degrees in architecture, design interactions, fashion, innovation design engineering, photography, textiles and visual communication. Christopher Bailey, chief creative officer at Burberry, is himself a 1994 graduate of the RCA, and received a scholarship to attend the college, awarded by the family of the late designer Bill Gibb.

“It’s for this reason that I feel so proud that we at Burberry are able to offer this opportunity to the creative talent of tomorrow, giving a new generation of designers the chance to benefit from the world-class expertise, facilities, teaching, experience and mentoring that this collaboration will bring,” Bailey said.

Burberry will also provide each recipient of the scholarship with an iPad to assist in their studies, and the recipients will also have the opportunity to undertake a two-week internship at Burberry during each year of their degree.

Source: WWD

Graduate Role at Ravensbourne

2012-02-22T05:15:00.001-08:00

I'm currently working on a 6 month contract for Ravensbourne college, based just next to the O2 in North Greenwich. We currently have a temporary role suitable for a graduate, to begin immediately.
Please see details below:

TEMP QUALITY ASSISTANT needed asap at RAVENSBOURNE

Ravensbourne's Quality Department are looking to employ a full-time Quality Assistant for 10 weeks' work starting AS SOON AS POSSIBLE for c.£20K pro rata.

In essence your work will be administrative and main duties will require you to:

- Attend meetings

- Take notes

- Pay attention to detail

- Evidence good grammar and punctuation skills

Please apply as soon as possible with your CV and cover letter to:

Libby Anson, Enterprise Support Manager:

l.anson@rave.ac.uk

New Book: Design Your Fashion Portfolio

2012-02-19T09:25:00.001-08:00

Here at The Fashion Careers Clinic we were recently sent a copy of the new book by Stephen Faerm: Design Your Fashion Portfolio.

Published by A&C Black, this is a great resource for anyone looking to launch a career in fashion design. It provides clear instructions on how to present work for all product sectors and markets including lingerie, kidswear, sportswear and evening wear.

Also included is advice on pitching for freelance work, selling yourself and your work at interviews and building a collection.

About the Author:
Stephen Faerm is the BFA Director of Fashion Design at Parsons: The New School for Design in New York. He has worked for designers such as Donna Karan and Marc Jacobs. He is the author of the Fashion Design Course.

VOLUNTARY FASHION GRAPHIC DESIGNER REQUIRED

2012-02-14T06:33:00.001-08:00

Climate Connected is a not for profit organisation working to promote awareness of community based climate projects in the developing world.

They are looking to launch a line of clothing including unisex hoodies and t-shirts incorporating graphics with QR coding which would retail online and at promotional events.

They are looking to hire a graphic design student or graduate to work alongside a fashion student/graduate to be responsible for graphic imagery for the collection.
This role will begin as an internship but may evolve into a paid role within the next few months.

A great opportunity to gain lots of hands on experience and responsibility!

Applications to be received by 23rd Feb.
Please contact Stephanie Finnan: Steph@fashioncareersclinic.com for a full job spec or more information

FASHION ILLUSTRATIONS & SKETCHES NEEDED FOR CHARITY AUCTION

2012-02-14T01:25:00.001-08:00

Posted on behalf of Hannah Taylor, Fashion Student at Ravensbourne:

I am raising money for Cancer Research UK, I will achieve this through a closed Fashion Auction which will take place in early May. This will be hosted at the new Ravensbourne building in Greenwich Peninsula, opposite the iconic O2 arena.

The reason that I am doing this is for my Final Major Project, I want to make a difference and not just something that will benefit me. Cancer Research is a charity which is close to my heart and to many others and affects all of us. The aim of the evening is to raise approx. £4,000. or more.

What I am after is established designers to donate their original sketchbook pages or Illustrations to the Auction. These will then be secretly bid on with all the proceeds going to Cancer Research UK on the night of the event. This will be advertised in local newspapers as well as the metro and online social medias.

The great thing about having an event like this is it has not be done before and there is no barrier or starting point for the amount a piece of work is worth, this is why the target of £4,000 is a rough estimate. To assist the Established designers sketches and Illustration I am also looking for Sketches and Illustrations by graduates from any University to also be in the auction to be auctioned upon as investments to those who bid on them.

Please contact me if you are interested in donating.
hannahdtaylor@gmail.com
07923064550

Fashion Design Competition - Enter now!

2012-02-07T12:00:00.001-08:00

In a new television series for Sky Living, pop superstar Rihanna will be searching the UK for the next generation of raw, undiscovered designer talent and has picked Girls Aloud singer Nicola Roberts to head up the challenge for her. Sky Living announced:

Over eight weeks twelve unknown designers will be challenged by Rihanna and Nicola to create outfits for a string of musicians and celebrities. The show will celebrate the extraordinary talent and creativity in the British fashion scene. With Rihanna, a fashion icon herself, and Nicola, who created her own Dainty Doll make-up range, at the helm, the show will recognise the increasing influence popstars have on mainstream trends.

The final challenge and ultimate task for the winner will be to design a unique stage outfit for Rihanna’s Wireless performance in Hyde Park in July 2012. The chance to dress one of the world’s most famous women for an event that will attract worldwide coverage is the perfect springboard for the aspiring designer’s future fashion career.

If you think you’re up to the challenge then visit Sky Living or e-mail applications@twentytwenty.tv

Applications must be received by Wednesday 15 February. Womenswear, menswear and accessories designers welcome. Filming takes place over 8 weeks in the UK from April 2012. Good luck!

Short Course at the Fashion Retail Academy

2012-01-20T14:33:00.001-08:00

Advanced Preparation for a Career in Fashion Retail:Buying, Merchandising and Management

Who is this course designed for?
This 6-week course at the Fashion Retail Academy is designed for graduates who would like to understand their options and develop a career strategy, or individuals who are already working in the fashion retail industry who want to expand their career opportunities.

What does the course offer?
Opportunities are offered to explore the key roles in buying, merchandising and management; and to develop skills that will prepare you for work.

Topics include:
• Analysis of retail organisation and business models
• Buying and merchandising
• Consumer behaviour
• Retail management skills
• Technology and the future of retail
• Core skills development: interview techniques, targeted CV's, negotiation and presentation skills.

What's in it for you?
The course makes full use of the FRA facilities and industry contacts to provide opportunities for excellent learning and coaching, as well as practice interviews and networking opportunities with our retail contacts.

Dates for 2012
20 Feb - 30 March; 11 June - 20 July; 10 Sept - 19 Oct

Apply Now! - Discounted rate for February course!

www.fashionretailacademy.ac.uk/short-courses

For information contact:
shortcourses@fashionretailacademy.ac.uk

FASHION FORWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED

2012-01-19T01:15:00.001-08:00

The British Fashion Council has announced the four recipients of this year's Fashion Forward initiative.

Womenswear designers Mary Katrantzou, Louise Gray and Henry Holland in addition to menswear designer James Long, will all receive sponsorship to show in London for two consecutive seasons. James is the first menswear designer to receive support through this scheme.

Fashion Forward was established six years ago to provide funding to emerging British designers. To be eligible designers will either have progressed through NEWGEN or be at a similar stage in their business. Previous winners have included: Christopher Kane, Meadham Kirchhoff, Giles Deacon and Roksanda Ilincic.

Source: Fashion Monitor

FREE Fashion Career Course at the Fashion & Textile Museum

2011-12-12T15:44:00.001-08:00

The Fashion Careers Clinic is holding another FREE* Fashion Career Course at the Fashion & Textile Museum next week - not once, but twice in 3 days! We have a few places left on the course running on Tuesday 20th/Wednesday 21st December - visit www.ftmlondon.org to secure your place.

If you're aged 16-18 and want to know more about careers in fashion, this is the course for you. You'll learn about key roles within the creative, technical and business sectors of fashion, including designer, stylist, pattern cutter, makeup artist and fashion journalist. There will be the opportunity to meet people who already work in the industry and to ask questions about what it's really like to work in fashion.

In addition there will be workshops on how to find work experience, CV writing and choosing a fashion college.

Can't make it next week? Don't worry - the Fashion Career Course will be running again in February 2012.

* The course is free for students aged between 16-18

Graduate Role At Lewis Alexander - Fashion Recruitment

2011-11-24T13:30:00.001-08:00

Are you a fashion graduate with an interest in being at the heart of the industry? Do you have knowledge of luxury goods and fashion management? If so, this might be the role for you...

Research, Administration & Operations Assistant
Job Description

Lewis Alexander Creative, Management + Executive search is a fully independent company operating exclusively in the Fashion and Luxury Goods industries for a portfolio of retained designers. We work on a search basis covering assignments in Europe, USA + Asia working by direct approach. After a successful first 2 years (as a start up company) we are now at a stage of growth and therefore have an opportunity to join our small but growing firm.

Research
• Working with Director on domestic and international assignments from strategy to execution;
• Mapping potential target companies and individuals
• Researching and due diligence around potential candidates
• Communication with candidates during the research stage
• Investigating local and cultural information in new markets related to employment and employment law
• Investigation into service providers such as; travel, IT, flowers, printing, stationary and entertainment.

Administration
• Update candidates own CV's into our format
• Prepare excel reports on search assignments
• Contacting placed candidates to attain referee details
• Contacting referees for previous employee's reference requests
• Working with Director to develop a fully functional database of company intelligence
• Asses and gather information from suppliers on CV / Database systems
• Work with external supplier and director to implement chosen IT system
• Action the transfer of all current data, CV’s and intelligence to IT system
• Manage database to ensure all information is up to date and accurate

Operations
• Manage in-bound communication (emails / phone calls)
• Work with Director, PR agencies and Press departments on coverage / attendance at Fashion weeks and industry events
• Arranging diary appointments for director
• Booking any travel
• Coordinating entertainment

Key Requirements:
• Excellent communications and personal skills
• IT literate – Word, Excel, Mac operating systems, email
• Passion and knowledge of the fashion and luxury industries

Email CV to Lewis: contact@lewisalexander.info

Jaime Perlman Lecture

2011-11-10T04:57:00.001-08:00

D&AD Events recently contacted us to share info on an up-coming lecture being held in central London next week. Jaime Perlman will be speaking about her life as an Art Director, most recently with British Vogue, therefore this is a great opportunity to gain insider knowledge on how a magazine operates. See below for more information....

The President's Lecture: Jaime Perlman

Jaime Perlman first landed in fashion as the Design Assistant at American Harper’s Bazaar, before moving on to become Associate Art Director of American Vogue. In 2005 she jumped ship for London to become the Art Director of British Vogue.

Perlman will compare art directing for print with art directing digital media and share her life and work including Vogue’s new iPad app, Fashion Loves Film at the ICA, and latest developments on her “pet project” TEST.

TEST fuses a combination of new and established artists on a constantly changing series of image-led projects. Under Jaime’s guidance the website collates the work of fashion, art, film, design and music’s most exciting talent.

Doors open 18:00pm. Lecture starts 19:00pm.
Location: Logan Hall, Institute of Education
Bedford Way, London
WC1H 0AL
For more information and to book your place visit: http://bit.ly/tdyUYk

Colour Couture Cosmetics - Could you be their new cover girl??

2011-10-25T08:45:00.001-07:00

Do you fancy the chance to be the cover model for a global, best-selling product? One lucky aspiring model has the opportunity to win Colour Couture's national competition launching at Britain and Ireland's Next Top Model Show Live 2011.

The competition will give the winning entrant a professional model experience, including full make-over, styling, photo shoot and portfolio pictures. The lucky winner will see herself on products stocked in high street stores all across the world and enjoy a complete set of Professional Collection Colour Couture Cosmetics.

Entrants can download the Colour Couture Cover Girl iPhone app to create and upload their winning headshot or visit Colour Couture Cosmetics’ Facebook competition page.

A shortlist will be chosen based on the entrants who have received the most public votes or ‘Likes’ via Facebook. The final 20 will be judged by Colour Couture’s expert panel of judges from the world of fashion, beauty and TV. The winner will be judged on her personality, style and character.

Creative Director for Colour Couture, Paul Salmon says “Along with the launch of our new Professional range and our competition at Britain & Ireland’s Next Top Model Live we will have a previous TV show finalist available on our stand to chat to aspiring fashionistas. Along with free make-overs and our nail bar, for a limited time, we will be offering all web purchases over £20 an exclusive free cosmetic gift.”

Hello, this is Steph from The Fashion Careers Clinic and I'm one of the judges on the panel of this exciting competition. For your chance to win,
visit: www.ilovecolourcouture.com/covergirl or www.facebook.com/colourcouturecosmetics for more information.

The Competition is open to anyone 16 or over.

Online Fashion Q&A on the Guardian Careers Section

2011-10-24T15:11:00.001-07:00

Steph from The Fashion Careers Clinic will be on the panel of a live Q&A session on the Guardian careers website tomorrow, 25th October.

Titled 'What to do with a degree in fashion', the session which is between 1pm and 4pm gives you direct access to industry insiders who will aim to answer your career related questions and offer advice based upon their own experiences.

The panel includes:

Karinna Nobbs is a senior lecturer in International Fashion Branding at Glasgow Caledonian University (GCU), and GCU London. Previously Karinna has worked as a visual merchandiser at Benetton, Kookai and Polo
Ralph Lauren.

Louise Kenny graduated with an MSc in International Fashion Marketing earlier this year and has gone on to work in online visual and display for Miss Selfridge. Louise also runs her own fashion label, Loula Creates, designing tights and leggings.

Elinor Renfrew is academic director of fashion at Kingston University.

Mal Burkinshaw is programme director for Fashion Design at Edinburgh College of Art, University of Edinburgh. He trained at Edinburgh College of Art before achieving an MA in Womenswear at the Royal College of Art, London.

Fiona Lambert is brand director at George. Fiona has worked for the company since its launch in 1990 and has been instrumental in taking the George brand forward. She will be online until 2pm.

Jane Gottelier is programme leader for Fashion Design and Performance Sportswear Design at University College Falmouth.

Dr Juliet Williams CBE is a director of the David Nieper Fashion Academy. David Nieper employs more than 240 people, including fashion designers, garment cutters and dressmakers. Through the Fashion Academy, David Nieper provides experience and training in fashion and manufacturing.

Kayleigh Archibald is in the sixth week of a three-month internship at David Nieper, a designer and manufacturer of lingerie, nightwear and clothing for women. A runner-up in the 2010 David Nieper Fashion Academy competition to find the best student fashion designers, Kayleigh's competition entry won her a £1,000 prize and an internship.

Join us online at http://bit.ly/oiGkbI

The Fashion Careers Clinic Graduate Marketplace at Clothes Show Live

2011-10-23T12:34:00.001-07:00

The Fashion Careers Clinic is once again working with the Clothes Show Live in Birmingham this December.

New for 2011 is the Graduate Marketplace, a fabulous opportunity for up and coming designers to showcase and retail their collections. The organisers of the show are offering FREE retail space for designers who graduated in the last couple of years who have their own labels. There's no limit on the type or style of collection accepted - Ladieswear, menswear, kidswear, accessories, it's up to you.

Successful applicants must man their stand for the duration of the show - 2nd to 7th December - and must be willing to chat to visitors about their collection, education, and background. Places are limited, so apply ASAP!

For more information, email me at Steph@fashioncareersclinic.com

Trend Forecasting Discussion At The Fashion & Retail Academy

2011-10-18T14:15:00.001-07:00

Join a panel of industry experts for a discussion surrounding the
role of trend forecasting and it's impact on design
Panel chaired by Paula Reed, Style Director, Grazia magazine

Panelists include:

Gordon Richardson, Creative Director, TopMan
Tim Soar, Designer, Tim Soar
Navaz Batiwalla, Blogger Disneyrollergirl
Alexis Knox, Fashion Stylist
Isham Sardouk, SVP Trend Forecasting, Stylesight
Helen Job, Director of Youth Culture, Stylesight

TUESDAY 25th OCTOBER 2011 6.30PM - 9PM
Fashion Retail Academy, 15 Gresse Street, London W1T 1QL

DRINKS RECEPTION AT 6.30pm | PRESENTATION 7pm PROMPT
Tickets £15
To reserve your ticket please RSVP with your name and contact details to:
events@fashionretailacademy.ac.uk

The evening includes a one night exhibition of unrivalled vintage clothing curated by Mark and Cleo Butterfield of C20 Vintage Fashion, who will be presenting an inspirational selection from their legendary secret warehouse. Expect beautiful vintage pieces spanning the entire 20th century including iconic Alaia, Biba, Chanel, Ossie Clark, Comme des Garcons, Courreges, Jean Paul Gaultier, Thierry Mugler, Vivienne Westwood and Yves Saint Laurent

Interview with Poppy Koumis, Creative Director of Winchester Fashion Week

2011-10-04T08:06:00.001-07:00

London, Paris, Milan, NY... and now Winchester! This summer saw the launch of the very first Winchester Fashion Week, which included talks with fashion insiders such as Wayne Hemingway and Mark Fast, practical masterclasses in sewing and garment construction, careers talks (including our own Fashion Careers Clinic seminars) and fashion shows.

What's amazing is that the whole event was run and organised by a team of very young students who are all still at 6th form or university. Organising an event of this magnitude can be daunting for even the most experienced fashion professional, never mind a group of students, and we were super impressed by how well they did.

We caught up with Creative Director, Poppy Koumis to find out more:

Poppy, this was a massive undertaking - what inspired you to do it?

1. In 2009 I took part in 'Triptych', a sixth-form art festival, organised by students from Peter Symonds College, Winchester College and St. Swithun's School. To celebrate Triptych's fifth anniversary we put on the very first fashion show, which was a huge success. Eloise Appleby, Winchester City Council’s Assistant Director (Economic Prosperity) saw the show, and asked if we would be interested in organising a fashion festival as part of the Winchester festival season, and it all began from there! I was taking a gap year as I was unsure of what to study after my foundation course, and so it seemed the perfect project to undertake during a year off.

How was the event funded?
2. Amazingly, the event was run on almost zero funding! We applied for funding from the arts council, and only realised after spending about 4 months on the application that they don't fund fashion... We then decided we had to just go ahead with no money, and make the most of it. Eventually we got a small but generous donation from Winchester BID, but the majority of the festival ran on volunteers, support in kind and generosity of others, which we had no shortage of, and I think that is what has been really inspiring.

You had some great well known speakers taking part - was it difficult to get them on board?
3. Without the support of Winchester City Council and the contacts they
supplied us with, we would have struggled getting some of the speakers, including Wayne Hemingway onboard. However, saying this, we managed to get a lot of inspiring guests involved and supporting us, off our own backs, including Lucinda Chambers, Fashion Director of Vogue, and Mark Fast, Knitwear Designer. Everyone we approached was always very interested and responsive, even if they couldn't help out we always got interested replies. I think the enthusiasm (and perhaps sometimes naivety!) of our team meant that people were also very positive and wanted to get involved.

What was your favourite part of the event?
4. My favourite part of the whole event was definitely our Cirque Du Fashion Shows. These were our main catwalk shows, held at Winchester Guildhall. We showcased garments from many different places, including Winchester School of Art, Peter Symonds College, Barton Peveril, Central Saint Martins, London College of Fashion etc.

With 20 local models, 20 dressers, hair styling by Guy Kremer and make up by students from Solent University, and 3 nights running, it was a really big event. I remember so clearly the moments before the first show started, with about 50 of us all waiting silently backstage for the music to begin and all our beautiful models wearing Mark Fast. There was a great sense of anticipation and excitement, and that feeling you get when you know this is exactly why you have worked so hard for so long on something, to be exactly in that place.

And what was the most difficult part of the process?
5. The trickiest part of the event was probably trying to keep everyone happy! It was such a big undertaking, with so many different people involved, and so many ideas, that it was impossible to say yes to everything and everyone, which I definitely found the hardest thing. We all had to learn to compromise along the way, and change directions, it was definately a big learning curve.

What would be your advice to other young people who are looking to put on their own event?
6. To other young people looking to put on their own event or fashion shows, I would say don't hold back and don't be afraid! I learnt that it is much more exciting to go for your big ideas and plans, rather than holding back with the fear of failing. People will be much more responsive and inspired if you are confident in your ambitious ideas.

So, what's next?
7. Winchester Fashion Week is carrying on next summer, and hoping to become an annual event. I have passed it over to a new team, which is a big relief! The hope is that it can be passed down each year to new students, whilst the past ones can mentor and advise.

Has this helped you decide what you want to do as a career?
8. I'm still not sure what I want to do after uni...! The good thing about fashion is that there are so many different things to get involved in, I would like to perhaps get into fashion films, maybe styling, we will see!

Thanks Poppy - very inspiring!

Poppy's story relates to some advice I gave to a group of students on our Fashion Fusion Career Course at the Fashion & Textile Museum recently. Part of the course involved advice on how to find fashion work experience, and we talked about the importance of taking the initiative of creating your own work experience or project if you haven't been able to find work experience within a company. We all know how hard it can be to find relevant work experience in fashion, especially if you're under 18 or not yet at Uni. Competition is intense for fashion placements, however if you're struggling, why not think of a few things you could do to kick-start your CV with a self directed project such as the ones below:

If you're interested in Styling: offer to style your friends when they're going to parties or special occasions - make sure to document the results by photographing the best ones and adding them to a portfolio

If you're interested in Fashion Journalism: At the very least, you should begin a blog in order to practise your writing skills and develop a signature style. Even better, start your own school or college fashion magazine - it doesn't have to be in print (but if you'd like it to be, speak to your Year Tutor about help with funding). It can be just as effective online, in a similar format to a blog.

If you're interested in Fashion Show Production: Put on your own show at your school or college. It doesn't have to be a production on the scale of what Poppy and her team did. Organising a smaller show will be just as good experience. If you're at 6th form or college, scout for a show team from among the other students. Music students might be interested in doing the soundtrack, theatre students in the practicalities of lighting, dance and choreography, textiles students could design and make a few pieces to be shown on the catwalk. Business students might want to approach local clothing stores and businesses to show their garments in the show...
The possibilities are very exciting!

These are just a few ideas to get you started.

If you're aged between 16-19 and are interested in getting into the fashion industry but not sure how to go about it, you might be interested in one of our forthcoming Fashion Career courses held at the Fashion & Textile Museum in London. The two day courses are free and are based on our best selling fashion careers advice book: How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion

If you'd like to register your interest in one of the courses, please contact the Fashion & Textile Museum on 0207 4078664

London College of Fashion Pop-Up Store

2011-09-15T03:18:00.001-07:00

London College of Fashion’s first ever pop-up retail space, is now open!
This is your opportunity to get your hands on some unique products designed by what could possibly be our future top names in fashion.

They have hundreds of beautiful one-off pieces designed by recent alumni, including womenswear, menswear, footwear and accessories as well as framed and unframed fashion photography prints and illustrations.

Stock rotates daily - check out designs by new and emerging talents alongside familiar names from recent years, including William Tempest, Hasan Hejani, Ada Zanditon and Beatrice Boyle.

Also stocking scarves by Boudicca and Giles Deacon for LCF, and honey made by their bees!

You can find the store at:

Unit 1.3 (First Floor)
Kingly Court
London W1B 5PW

Open until 28th September

New Fashion Styling Course at Milan Fashion Campus

2011-08-16T07:17:00.001-07:00

Milan Fashion Campus would like to propose a tour/learning package where visitors can learn Fashion Styling during their enjoyable time touring around the city.

3 attractive points about taking the FASHION STYLING COURSE at Milan Fashion Campus:
Learn how to fashion stylize while enjoying the fashion capital of Milan (especially during Milan Fashion Week, get to know the fashionista parties and exhibition for buyers)
Classes are from Monday to Thursday which allows you to travel to other great areas of Italy over the weekend.
Learn the culture of Italy learning the language (special course offer), enjoying food (happy hour hot spots) and of all, fashion (all over Milan).

Milan Fashion Campus has just started to offer this experience of fashion cultural course. Many tourists look for excuses to travel but they want to do trips that are useful for them.

With this Fashion Styling Course at Milan Fashion Campus, you can gain knowledge and skills useful whether you want to persue your hidden dream as personal fashion shopper or a magazine stylist. Even if you just want to learn how to coordinate dresses for special occasions or redo wardrobes for their husbands, exposing yourself into the fashion capital getting insprired from the streets is the best way to learn. The peak seasons are ofcourse during fashion weeks when you can enjoy watching fashionistas down Montenapoleone and going to the fashion show after parties where all the models and fashion victims mingle, chattering about how the season collection was of that day.

Classes are either part time or full time from Monday to Thursday. Depending on the intensity of the course you prefer, you can balance out your schedule with travelling and studying. If you prefer part time courses, you can choose whether to take classes in the morning or in the afternoon, depending on how much of a night owl you woud want to be in Milan. Lakes in Como, Juliet's house in Verona, river streets of Venice, are some few places where you can visit during the long weekend during your off time. Come at the right time and you get to see the fashion exhibitions and international buyers' exposition also.

Fashion Styling Course is now available with part time with the other part time of Italian Language Course. Learn the Italian language personalized for your purpose (coversational, business or advanced), so you can enjoy for a night out for Milan's classic 'aperitivo' happy hour time and classy bars owned by big fashion houses, (Just Cavalli Cafè, Trussardi Restaurant, Bulgari Restaurant) all in the outfit you have stylized for yourself ofcourse.
Milan Fashion Campus will follow each student suiting their personal needs from a professional point of view in the fashion world but always teaching with the cultural touch.
Make your time in Milan useful by learning fashion styling and become a Milanese.

More info: http://www.milanfashioncampus.it/Italian%20language%20School/milan%20fashion%20week.htm

Contact
Milan Fashion Campus
Via Giuseppe Broggi 7 20129 Milano ( ITALY )
Tel: 0039 - 02 -26822730 Fax: 0039 02700445714
e-mail: info@fashioncampus.it
Web: www.milanfashioncampus.it

New Fashion Graphic Designer Vacancy at Mudpie

2011-08-16T07:08:00.001-07:00

Middleweight Graphic Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Application Deadline: Friday 9th September 2011
Required: CV and samples
Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to appoint a full-time Middleweight Graphic Designer for Fashion Apparel to work in their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire.

Requirements for the role:

· Main tasks will include creating trend-led graphics and all over prints for fashion apparel
· The ideal candidate will have at least 2 years experience of working in a commercial environment creating graphics for womenswear
· Knowledge of creating graphic placements and all over prints is essential
· Ability to draw free-hand with a feminine writing style would also act as a further advantage
· The successful candidate will also have knowledge of working with creation of colour palettes
· Strong IT skills are essential with an excellent knowledge of using Adobe programs
Strong use of colour within a commercial context is essential
· Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail

This is the perfect opportunity for an experienced graphic designer looking to relocate to the south coast.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk . Please note that any application sent without samples will not be considered.

New Vacancy for Fashion Editor at Mudpie!

2011-08-13T04:17:00.001-07:00

Fashion Editor

Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Required: CV and work examples
Application Deadline: Friday 19th August 2011
Contact: catherine.cetnik@mudpie.co.uk

The Role:
Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. Our leading B2B online trend service Mpdclick.com is looking for a fashion editor to take responsibility for compiling and supplying relevant editorial content to our subscribers. Working with the website manager and editor, the post holder will have up-to-date knowledge and experience of the fashion industry and garment terminology, trend forecasting and sub-editing.

Specific responsibilities will include:
• To deputise for the editor as required
• To source and write great features
• To proof read and deliver feedback to the editorial team on aspects of content
• To nurture, maintain and make use of a wide range of contacts
• To collaborate with other members of the team and across the business
• To contribute to Mudpie’s trend research and development process

Profile:
It is essential that you possess experience as a features writer or assistant editor on a B2B publication with a proven ability to produce creative, accurate and innovative copy. You must also be able to think creatively about the layout of content. Experience in managing a small team, unique projects and deadlines will be of benefit. Proficiency in design software, all Office applications and online content management systems is also an advantage.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence. To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to catherine.cetnik@mudpie.co.uk.

New Vacancy for Fashion Business Journalist at Mudpie!

2011-08-13T04:16:00.001-07:00

Fashion Business Journalist

Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Required: CV and work examples
Application Deadline: Friday 19th August 2011
Contact: catherine.cetnik@mudpie.co.uk

The Role:
Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. Our leading B2B online trend service Mpdclick.com is looking for a fashion business journalist to take responsibility for compiling and supplying relevant editorial content to our subscribers. This busy role involves reporting on and analyzing trade fairs and industry events taking place around the world. You will be co-ordinating our team of local reporters and maintaining a close relationship with show/ event organisers and press offices.

Specific responsibilities will include:
• To source and write great features from a business to business perspective
• To analyze trends coming from international trade fairs
• To nurture, maintain and make use of a wide range of contacts
• To co-ordinate a global network of freelance reporters
• To collaborate with other members of the team and across the business

Profile:
Although this is primarily a fashion role the editorial is written from a business point of view. This role would suit a business studies graduate or journalist with excellent English language skills and an interest in both Business and Fashion. You must also be able to think creatively about the layout of content. Proficiency in design software, all Office applications and online content management systems is also an advantage.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence. To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to catherine.cetnik@mudpie.co.uk

The London Fashion Foundation Diploma

2011-07-24T14:29:00.001-07:00

We're really excited to announce the launch of a fantastic new fashion course beginning in September by our friends at the Fashion & Textile Museum in Bermondsey, London. The London Fashion Foundation Diploma offers a great introduction to this exciting industry over a 30 week period beginning this September.

Students will divide a four day week between the Fashion & Textile Museum and Newham College and will be taught by industry experts and experienced tutors, covering a range of specialisms including womenswear, menswear and accessories design and branding.

The course will provide students with the ideal platform for entry to a degree course or employment upon successful completion.

There will be an open day this Tuesday 26th July for interested students. For more information email: Info@ftmlondon.org

Winchester Fashion Week

2011-07-15T01:22:00.001-07:00

This week the organisers of Winchester’s VERY FIRST fashion week, headed by Poppy Koumis and Vikki Weston, celebrated as the tickets officially went on sale. The week of the 25th to 31st July will be presenting the very best, the most inspired, the downright incredible cream of the Winchester Fashion Art crop. Ranging from student to professional work, all organically sourced from local artistic talent, handpicked by the Winchester Fashion Week team.

Winchester Fashion Week will consist of in total six spectacular catwalk shows with the main focus on the ‘Cirque Du Fashion’ shows at Winchester Guildhall. These circus themed shows are the main event of Winchester Fashion Week, running a total of 3 nights from Thursday to Saturday, and expected to be a sell out, so buy your tickets now before they’re gone!

As well as catwalk shows, Winchester Fashion Week are offering talks and workshops, a fashion photography, film and illustration exhibition, a frock swap, a vintage dance night as well as plans to take over the whole of the Brooks Shopping Centre with pop-up shops, gallery spaces and the official Winchester Fashion Week HQ. To find out more about the events available go to www.winchesterfashionweek.com and to BOOK NOW call Winchester Discovery Centre on 01962 873603, or visit www.hants.gov.uk/wdc to book online.

Winchester Fashion Week is THE place to be and be seen this summer.
Book now to avoid disappointment, and come celebrate the fabulous world of fashion this July.

Call Winchester Discovery Centre at 01962 873603 to book all tickets.

For Sue & Sue’s Workshop’s call 07810158125 or 07719296956 or email them at sueandsueworkshop@googlemail.com .

Schedule:

Monday 4th - Sunday 31st July:

Fashion Photography, Film and Illustration Exhibition
Theatre Royal & Winchester Discovery Centre (WDC only running 15-29th July)

Monday 18th - Sunday 31st July:

Pop Up Design Shop & Gallery
The Brooks Shopping Centre

Tuesday 19th July:

Wayne Hemingway
19:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Monday 25th July:

Catwalk Shows @ The Brooks
12:30: The Brooks Shopping Centre

Mixed Media Collage Workshop by Sue Riley
16:00-17:30: Winchester Discovery Centre

The Fabulous Fifties: Frocks and Florals: Lecture by Liz Tregenza
16:00-17:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Tuesday 26th July:

Subtraction Cutting Masterclass by Julian Roberts
10:00-17:00: Winchester School of Art

Catwalk Shows @ The Brooks
12:30: The Brooks Shopping Centre

‘Aviature’ (aviation + couture): Lecture by Simon Thorogood
19:00-20:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Wednesday 27th July:

Catwalk Shows @ The Brooks
12:30: The Brooks Shopping Centre

Hobble Skirts and Harem Pants: Lecture by Yvonne Bell
16:00-17:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Frock Swap
19:30: Winchester Discovery Centre

Thursday 28th July:

Paper Couture Fashion Decorations: Workshop by Sue and Sue
10:00-12:30: Sue and Sue's Studio in Abbotts Barton

Decorative Paper Fashion Accessories: Workshop by Sue and Sue
14:00-17:00: Sue and Sue's Studio in Abbotts Barton
Workshop by Sue and Sue
Suitable for 12 - 16 yrs

Cirque Du Fashion Show
19:00-20:00: The Guildhall

Friday 29th July:

Knotted and Beaded Jewellery: Workshop by Inga Chapman
10:00-14:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Digital Textiles Now: Lecture by Melanie Bowles
16:00-17:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Cirque Du Fashion Show
19:00-20:00: The Guildhall

After Party at The Railway
21:00-02:00: The Railway

Saturday 30th July:

Jewellery Workshop-Encased Treasures: Workshop by Inga Chapman
10:00-14:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Fashion Careers: How to Prepare a Fashion/Textiles Portfolio: Lecture by Stephanie Finnan
14:30-15:30: Winchester Discovery Centre

Fashion Careers: How to Find & Prepare for Work Experience: Lecture by Stephanie Finnan
15:30-16:30: Winchester Discovery Centre

Cirque Du Fashion Show
19:00-20:00: The Guildhall

Sunday 31st July

Peg Knitting Workshop: Workshop by Donna Vokes
10:30-12:00: Winchester Discovery Centre

Recycled Outfit Workshop: Workshop by Donna Vokes
12:30-14:00:Winchester Discovery Centre

Vacancy For Senior Footwear Designer

2011-07-14T04:03:00.001-07:00

We've just heard of a really great role for an experienced footwear designer!
The position is with leading supplier, Lloyd Shoes Ltd, working on their Topman account. If you're a mens footwear designer looking for a new job, here are the details:

Senior Footwear Designer

Requirements:
6 + Years experience in the Footwear Industry
Excellent organisational Skills
A good communicator
Good Presentation Skills
Able to work well alone as well as in a team environment
Liaising with internal and external design teams, buyers to communicate clearly about future ranges and trend.
Able to research ideas from all relevant media (Web, Magazines etc)
Creating product boards that illustrate the season’s commercial and directional trends across genres- formal, casual and sports categories.
Being able to translate seasonal trends and apply them strategically to relevant footwear ranges
Ability to design commercially considering target customers, target prices, etc
Uses a wide range resourcing trends and able to influence these ideas into senior management
A good knowledge of different shoemaking processes and the application of different constructions/materials etc
To be responsible for a collection whilst following a brief
Being proactive in all aspects of the role
Taking responsibility for correct targeting of designs
Demonstrates technical awarness
Experience with working with factories

For more information or to send your CV, call Andy Thompson: 07734977988 or email andythompson@lloydshoe.co.uk

New Fashion Jobs Available At Mudpie

2011-07-12T16:31:00.001-07:00

The following positions have become available with leading trend agency, Mudpie. Please apply only if you have all of the skills and experience required.

Middleweight Garment Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Application Deadline: Friday 15th July 2011
Required: CV and Design Samples
Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to appoint a full-time middleweight garment designer to work in their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire.

Requirements for the role:

· Main tasks will include creating trend-led garment designs for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby, while being involved in trend led intelligence.
· The ideal candidate will have experience in garment design and knowledge of sports and/or menswear would be extremely advantageous
· Experience of working on commercial design briefs and creating trend boards from your own research would be beneficial
· Knowledge of working with creation of colour palettes would also act as a further advantage
· Strong IT skills are essential with experience of using Adobe programs
· This individual must have strong research and communication skills and be able to efficiently manage schedules and deadlines

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Creative Graphic Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Application Deadline: Friday 15th July 2011
Required: CV and samples
Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to appoint two full-time creative graphic designers to work in their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire.

Requirements for the role:

Main tasks will include assisting our team of graphics designers as well as creating trend-led fashion graphics for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby
The ideal candidate will be a design graduate with a strong knowledge of fashion graphics and an interest in either men’s, boys, or children’s wear would be extremely advantageous
Strong IT skills are essential with experience of using Adobe programs
Ability to draw free-hand would also act as a further advantage
Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail
Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Graduate Garment Designer
Application Deadline: Friday 15th July 2011
Required: CV and Design Samples
Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to appoint a full-time graduate garment designer to work in their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire.

Requirements for the role:

· Main tasks will include assisting our team of designers as well as creating trend-led garment designs for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby
· The ideal candidate will be a design graduate with a strong knowledge of garment design and an interest in either female, lingerie, baby and children’s wear would be extremely advantageous
· Strong IT skills are essential with experience of using Adobe programs
· This individual must have strong research and communication skills and be able to efficiently manage schedules and deadlines

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Launch of Gloss Magazine

2011-07-12T04:54:00.001-07:00

We always like to hear of exciting new magazines and websites, so here is some info on soon to launch Gloss magazine. Michelle Commosioung
CEO of MyRetailHeaven.co.uk explains:

"The MyRetailHeaven Gloss magazine launches July/August 2011 and is aimed at women who want Fashion & Lifestyle with Intelligence. The Gloss
magazine has an international-focus and is for women who are aspirational
and on-their-way up the career ladder and for those who have already made
it. These women are mothers, teachers, lawyers, doctors, executives,
musicians, designers, journalists...the list goes on. They are women of
intelligence and substance, who appreciate the need for a magazine
designed with them in mind.

If you would like to receive a FREE 12-month subscription to the
MyRetailHeaven Gloss Magazine click here on this link:
http://www.myretailheavenmagazine.com/email/index.php
and enter your email address and we’ll be sure to get a digital version of
the magazine over to you every month for free."

The Fashion Careers Clinic at Artsmart

2011-06-28T15:06:00.001-07:00

The Fashion Careers Clinic will be down at the University of the Arts London, Artsmart Event, this Friday and Saturday, the 1st and 2nd July.

If you are a recent graduate, it's a great way to give yourself a head start to get ahead in the creative industries. There are talks from industry insiders, a recruitment fair and an Art and Design Market. You can be a graduate from ANY college if you want to attend.

The Fashion Careers Clinic will be running a talk on "How to get ahead by networking" on the Friday at 12pm in the Billiards Room, Chelsea College, John Islip Street SW1 and we will have a stall there all day Saturday. Visit www.artsmartlondon.co.uk for more information.

Graduate Fashion Week

2011-06-14T11:27:00.001-07:00

For the last week, the Fashion Careers Clinic has been busy, busy visiting Graduate Fashion week at Earls Court and also the Free Range Show at the Truman Brewery.

Both shows had a wealth of fashion talent across design, marketing and promotion and proved that no matter what the press/government think that there is a fantastic amount of creative talent out there amongst this years graduates...

Highlights were the LCF BA show in Paddington with beautiful embellishments and brainbending styling and the Epsom show at LCF which showed what the design students were really capable of...
The only downside to all this talent is that there are so many amazing grads and not enough design jobs for them all. If you are one of these graduates, then have you thought about a career in production, garment technology or sample machining instead of design? All of these job areas have good creative contact with the product and there are jobs out there to be had! If you want to find out more then book a one to one careers appointment to discuss your options...

Visit our new website: www.fashioncareersclinic.com for more information.

Last chance to sign up for our May Fashion Careers Course at the Fashion & Textile Museum

2011-05-27T02:09:00.001-07:00

If you're aged 16-18 and interested in a career in fashion, hurry to sign up for our FREE Fashion Career course at the Fashion & Textile Museum in London.

The 2 day course takes place next Tuesday 31st May, therefore you must sign up today if interested.

You'll learn about what it's really like to work in fashion and will have the opportunity to meet industry insiders during Q&A sessions covering fashion design, trend forecasting, styling, makeup artistry, buying, PR & marketing, pattern cutting, fashion journalism and fashion show production.

We will also show you how to prepare a CV and cover letter, explain how to find work experience in fashion, and tell you about fashion courses and apprenticeships.

If you'd like to sign up for this course (or one of our others taking place in July) contact the Fashion & Textile Museum: www.ftmlondon.org

If you're interested in finding out more about the fashion industry and how you can get into it but aren't based in London, our advice guide book is back in stock. How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion is available here: www.fashioncareersclinic.myshopify.com

The Fashion Careers Clinic at Winchester Fashion Week

2011-05-25T05:07:00.001-07:00

Steph from The Fashion Careers Clinic will be speaking at the first ever Winchester Fashion Week on the 30th July. If you're looking to find out more about breaking into the fashion industry, this is the event for you, ideal for students aged 16+.

Winchester Fashion Week is on from 25th-31st July, featuring a range of workshops and talks on fashion design, history of fashion, pattern cutting, textile design, plus catwalk fashion shows.

Talks from The Fashion Careers Clinic are as follows:

Saturday 30th July

2.30-3.30: How To Create A Fashion/Textiles Design Portfolio

3.30-4.30: How To Find And Prepare For Fashion Work Experience

Tickets for these events are just £5

For more information or to book a place for one of our lectures, visit www.winchesterfashionweek.com

We will also be selling copies of our book - How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion - at the event at a special price of £10.

We've just received this exciting information from Poppy Koumis, Creative Director of the event:

Wayne Hemingway, Urban Designer, Founder of Red or Dead and Director of the South Coast Design Forum.

Wayne Hemingway, designer, entrepreneur, founder of Red or Dead and Vintage Hemingway, is coming to meet Winchester’s creative force, as a lift off event for Winchester Fashion Week and to celebrate the recent creation of a Winchester branch of the South Coast Design Forum; the event is jointly organised and hosted by the Café Culture network (www.cafeculture.org.uk )

Wayne is renowned for his challenging and entertaining views on urban design, brand creation and setting up creative businesses. He has been Director of the British Fashion Council, and is Chair of housing design body Building for Life and of the South Coast Design Forum.

This event is free to Café Culture / SCDF members and Fashion Week associates but seats will need to be booked by calling the Discovery Centre on 01962 873603 and using the special password “Vintage” (one seat per member) and it’s first come first served so book straight away! There will be a pay bar for this event.

Fashion Graduates of 2011

2011-05-17T13:19:00.001-07:00

Graduate Fashion Week is getting closer and closer and a fresh new crop of graduates are burning the midnight oil completing their portfolios and sewing up their garments...
In the last week FCC has been meeting with graduates from last year who have still yet to secure their first permanent position in the industry and helping them to step up their job search as the new graduate competition approaches.

However, it's not all doom and gloom... Another year on, and many of the 2010 graduates have been working in unpaid and paid internships and gaining loads of experience which they need to be clever about maximising on their CV's.

The Fashion Careers Clinic can help you if you haven't yet found a job via helping you update your CV and portfolio (if you have one) and by providing an action plan which can really help you kick start your job search. Its only £40 for an hours consultation and that includes three months of follow up service by phone or email.
Contact jo@fashioncareersclinic.com or 07703 357242 to book an appointment.
Visit our facebook page for more information www.facebook.com/fashioncareersclinic
Or our website: Fashion Careers Clinic

Street Style Surgery

2011-05-10T09:25:00.001-07:00

Here at The Fashion Careers Clinic we're always on the lookout for similar organisations to us, who are focused towards helping people into the fashion industry and who provide practical advice or careers guidance.
One such company is the Street Style Surgery, owned and managed by former Design Director, Sissy Rooney. We met Sissy on her stand at the Clothes Show Live last year and were really impressed by her hands-on design workshops for students which give an overview of what being a fashion designer is like via practical demonstrations on customisation.

Here's some further info on what the SSS is all about:

The Street Style Surgery (SSS) is a social enterprise that hosts unique and funky ‘Street Style’ fashion design workshops for primary and secondary schools as well as various youth organisations. The SSS workshop gives young people the opportunity to express their own & unique fashion style in a creative, fun and easy going environment and introduces them to the fact that fashion does not need to be something that is followed or bought into, but can be something they can create and adapt.

Sissy comments:
"T-shirts are customised in a ‘Street Style’ fashion with Marabu fabric spray paints, these workshop are very engaging for both girls and boys so why not run our Banksy style stencil project? This project has an enterprising element at the end as the young people are given a garment costing to fill in, in order for them to get a true understanding of how to make profit from their own artistic skills and talents. The whole process from design to finished product gives the participants a real boost and raises their confidence levels no end".

Sissy Rooney also draws on her own life experiences to give motivational and inspirational talks to young people in order to inspire them to achieve their dreams, with the ethos being to “never give up”.
This is one example of the fashion design workshops the SSS offers, please see website for other types, including fashion illustration and garment recycling: www.streetstylesurgery.co.uk

Fashion Careers Course At The Fashion & Textile Museum

2011-05-09T12:57:00.001-07:00

We've been really busy here at The Fashion Careers Clinic with the launch of our exciting new short course for 16-18 year olds. The 2 day Fashion Career course is based on my book: How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion and is aimed at those who have an idea that they might want to get into fashion one day, but need more info and advice on the different roles and options available to them.

Both of the courses we ran at the Fashion & Textile Museum during the last few weeks were fully booked and we met some really enthusiastic students, most of whom were studying for their A-levels and wanted advice on which courses and subjects to focus on next. The first day of the course focused on giving an overview of roles in the creative sector (including design, trend forecasting, styling and fashion show production), then more business focused sectors such as fashion PR and marketing, journalism and buying. The day ended with an overview of roles in the often overlooked technical sector, including pattern cutting, production and sewing.

We had the help of some amazing industry insiders who came in to give talks to the students about what it's really like to work in fashion, via Q&A sessions. These included Nafisa Tosh, a sample machinist who has worked with many top fashion houses, Luke Foy who runs his own fashion show production company, and Lisa Taylor, ex Design Director/Buying Director from Warehouse, Marks & Spencer and Karen Millen. We were also joined by Aoife ni Chofaigh who is an accessories designer with Accessorize, our very own Jo Eaton who shared her experiences of working in fashion marketing, and Dimitri Stavrou, Production Assistant at Roland Mouret. Thanks to all of these people, who were very generous with their time and hugely inspirational!

Day two of the course was spent discussing methods of finding fashion work experience, CV development and creating a personal action plan for each student. Again, there was a Q&A session, this time with a student from the London College of Fashion, James Cameron (thanks James!) who was able to give our students an insight into what being a fashion intern is like.

As I mentioned earlier, there were some very enthusiastic students on the course, not to mention talented ones. Some of the students interested in journalism or styling already have their own blogs, and one I particularly like is Nude on Broadstreet by Olivia Ward Hands, which shows a really good eye for styling and presenting images well.

If you're interested in exploring careers in fashion and would like to sign up for one of the next courses (they're free!), just visit the website of the Fashion & Textile Museum for more details. If you aren't based in London and want to find out more about careers in fashion design, styling, buying, PR, marketing, pattern cutting, makeup artistry, trend forecasting, fashion show production, visual merchandising or garment production, take a look at the book the course was based on. How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion is available here

Fashion design/graphics roles available at Mudpie Ltd

2011-05-09T08:22:00.001-07:00

Looking for a new job in fashion design or graphics? We've just been alerted to some exciting new roles at Mudpie Ltd, as follows:

Senior Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Required: CV and samples from portfolio
Application Deadline: Monday 23rd May 2011
Contact: jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This full-time role will initially be covering maternity leave for the current design manager. The successful applicant will then work alongside the current design manager to strengthen and increase Mudpie’s consultancy offer. The ideal candidate will have experience managing a team and have strong communication skills with the ability to work to strict deadlines in a fast paced working environment. This role demands a high level of innovation and creativity, which will need to be applied to all areas of the business. The successful applicant must be able to –

Use effective supervisory and organisational skills to manage a highly creative team
Be able to motivate self and team members
Be able to produce quality projects consistently
Meet customer expectations and deadlines
Use Adobe programs, while knowledge in CorelDraw would be an advantage.
Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Fashion Graphic Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Required: CV and samples of fashion graphics
Application Deadline: Monday 23rd May 2011
Contact: jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This full-time role will require experience using creative Adobe programs, while knowledge in CorelDraw would be an advantage. Experience in fashion graphic design, with knowledge of web-based products would be preferred. This individual must have strong research and communication skills and be able to efficiently manage schedules and deadlines. Main tasks will include creating trend-led fashion graphics and all over prints for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby, while being involved in trend led intelligence.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Middleweight Graphic Designer
Location: Romsey, Hampshire
Application Deadline: Monday 23rd May 2011
Required: CV and samples
Contact: jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This full-time role will require Strong IT skills with experience of using creative Adobe programs while knowledge in CorelDraw and the ability to draw free-hand as a further advantage. Some industry experience in fashion graphic design, with knowledge of web-based products would be advantageous. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail. Main tasks will include assisting our team of graphics designers as well as creating trend-led fashion graphics for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to jobs@mudpie.co.uk

Work In Fashion T-Shirt Design Competition

2011-05-09T04:03:00.001-07:00

The new fashion networking site, Work In Fashion has launched a great competition for budding fashion designers and is looking for someone to design their brand t-shirt. Here's an overview of what they're looking for, by their Director, Simon Golding:

Design the new WorkinFashion t-shirt

Workinfashion have decided it’s about time we had some promotional t-shirts for the brand and what better than to get one of our talented members to come up with the design!

The t-shirts will be worn by our promotional staff at fashion events and trade shows, given away as prizes in future competitions and sold on the network.

We were thinking of themes or sayings like

I WorkinFashion

Right, here are the rules:
1. The competition is only open to members of the WorkinFashion network, strictly one entry per member
2. The t-shirt must feature our URL: WWW.WORKINFASHION.COM somewhere within the design
3. Entries must be submitted to t-shirt@workinfashion.com before 31st May 2011
4. We are preferably looking for designs on white tees, but all will be considered
5. T-shirts should be unisex design, and suitable for cost effective, simple production
Together with the kudos of designing the first WorkinFashion t-shirt, the lucky winner will receive £100 to put towards their latest wardrobe addition.

Secondly, we'll give you 50p for every t-shirt of your design that we sell, so you will keep on earning from the design.

The winner will be judged and announced shortly after the 31st May 2011. The winning design will be advertised on WorkinFashion and to thousands of fashion professionals on our Facebook and Twitter pages.

We look forward to seeing some wonderful designs coming in, for full terms and conditions please request them by emailing t-shirt@workinfashion.com

Good luck!

New Look And C4 Announce Launch of New Look Style The Nation

2011-05-06T04:21:00.001-07:00

New Look and Channel 4 have announced the launch of New Look Style the Nation, a new T4 programme airing from June 4. The partnership recognises the style and creativity of everyday girls and boys across the country, with the winner landing a job as a stylist at New Look. The six-week series will be fronted by Nick Grimshaw, who will also help the judging panel, which consists of Giles Deacon and New Look Group Creative Director Barbara Horspool, along with celebrity guests. The would-be stylists compete in a catwalk competition across five cities with the winning collection being decided by T4 viewers in a live vote where winners from each region compete against one another. The show also features a 2-screen technology which allows people at home to create their own outfits online, some of which will be modelled in the show itself.

Content courtesy of Fashionmonitor

Clothes Show Style Scout - Applications to be submitted asap!

2011-05-05T02:53:00.001-07:00

If you missed our first post about Clothes Show Style Scout, here are the details again. If you're a student at a UK university and are interested in fashion styling, blogging, or fashion journalism, this is an amazing opportunity to get your opinions out there and get some great experience on your fashion CV! Hurry though - it's only a few weeks until the Style Scout website launches, so the organisers need your application asap! Good luck!

Ever fancied yourself as a fashionista? Do you rock the coolest cuts on campus? Then Clothes Show Style Scout needs you!

Clothes Show Style Scout is a fresh new project set up by the UK’s largest fashion and beauty event, Clothes Show Live. The aim is to produce an online journal that is active 24/7 in documenting up to the minute fashion in all of the UK’s area codes, colleges and universities. Stylescout.com is a place to share, see and be inspired!

We are on the hunt for some seriously stylish students to contribute to our feature – Clothes Show Style Scout: The College Years. As part of our super slick Student Style Team of fashion photographers, style finders and bloggers, your role will be to seek out the coolest styles and trends in our fairest and most fashionable unions and student dorms nationwide. So whether you’re in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham or London you’ll be out there capturing the latest from the concrete catwalk!

We are looking for 10 Student Style Scouts so competition is fierce, but if your passion for fashion is equally fierce then don’t hesitate, and apply now!

If you think you’ve got what it takes then here’s what we need from you:

A snap of your stylish self.
A bit of blurb about you, why you love fashion and why you think you deserve to be part of the Clothes Show Style Scout team.
A photograph that you have either found or taken that you think embodies everything that is fashion and style!

Please send to louise.grant@haymarket.com with ‘Clothes Show Style Scout’ in the subject box.

John Lewis To Assist Grads In Retail Careers

2011-05-05T02:43:00.001-07:00

High street retailer, John Lewis, has announced that they will guarantee interviews or assessment centre sessions to all successful participants of a national pre employment programme. The programme called Retail Works and which is run by Skillsmart Retail, an industry skills council, provides over 30 hours of training in a broad variety of retail skills.

It’s a very positive move by the department store to offer graduates ‘a foot in the door’ and create new jobs. Beyond the assessment scheme, the retailer has also ring fenced 400 assessment places at its new store opening in Stratford this September to Retail Works attendees.

Anne Seaman, CEO of Skillsmart Retail, said: “It can be very frustrating for people trying to get a job in retail if they have no previous experience, because recruiters often disregard them and it becomes a catch-22 situation.

“Retail Works is a fantastic route into retail. It demonstrates to retailers that a person has the knowledge base and passion to work in retail and gives the individual confidence in interviews and at work.”

Since the programme began in January 2009, it has trained more than 20,000 people and a survey last year showed that 53 per cent of participants had found work thanks to the course.

John Lewis hopes to create 2,200 new jobs in the UK this year with the opening of their new Stratford store, near to the Olympics site.

Jane Beine, Head of Partner Development at John Lewis, added: “Our Partners are at the centre of our organisation. They are hugely important
to the business and their passion for retail is essential.

“We are delighted to be able to use the Skillsmart Retail Works programme to help us recruit for our new branch in Stratford. Helping people back into work and onto a career path in retail with John Lewis is very exciting and forms part of the personnel divisional strategy.”

Original feature courtesy of Fashionunited

Interview with Derrick Campbell, CEO of Lyle & Scott

2011-05-04T11:59:00.001-07:00

Derrick Campbell is the CEO of Lyle & Scott, one of the leading high street fashion brands in the UK and Europe. In conjunction with RetailChoice.com, Derrick spoke to the Fashion Careers Clinic about his experience as the CEO of a fast growing brand and what it takes to succeed in fashion jobs.

Tell us about your early career path - how and where did you start out?

As a linguist graduate from Edinburgh University and I was then recruited within the Courtaulds Textile Graduate scheme.

And in more recent years, which companies did you work with before Lyle & Scott?

I have been employed by Lyle and Scott for over 30 years.

What attracted you to the Lyle & Scott brand?

The possibility of using languages and the fact the company worked worldwide.

How has the company changed and developed under your direction? Any new initiatives you are particularly proud of?

The company has become profitable and tripled in size over the past five years since becoming MD, and has been recognised as a brand worthy of a worldwide direction.

What is it about the fashion industry that motivates you, and what would you be doing if you didn't work in fashion?

The pace at which the fashion industry works, outside of that I am passionately interested in anything that is creative!

What advice would you give to others in retail management who are looking to move roles? In your opinion is it more important to be driven by the product, the brand, or the salary/package?

You need to have a passion in what you believe in regardless of what sector of the industry you decide to be in!

As the CEO of Lyle & Scott, what is the most difficult aspect of your job and of operating at such a senior level?

People!!!!

And what aspects of the role give you the greatest satisfaction?

Seeing other people achieving the same passion as I do on the basis that it is under the same company objectives that we are driving towards.

What advice would you give to those looking to get into the fashion industry - what do you wish someone had told you when you were starting out?

That it never gets any easier no matter what you achieve!

In your opinion, is it essential these days for young people to gain a degree in fashion if they want to succeed in retail management, or is it more important to gain hands-on experience on the shop-floor?

I think it is important to get a great degree in any area that interests you then you can start to apply your skills to the industry.

As we all know, it's tough out there for recent graduates. Tell us more about how your company supports new talent - what does your Graduate Scheme involve and who is eligible for it?

We currently operate the Harris Watson scheme and have taken on a number of graduates who are rotated every three months throughout the group. This allows them personal experience within each of the companies and for the MD’s involved to take a view to see if there is a place for an offer of recruitment within the company they are responsible for to be made.

Ezoe Robinson - Winner of the FDC Young Designer Awards

2011-04-23T07:13:00.001-07:00

We posted a while back about the FDC Young Designer Awards - here's an interview with the lucky winner, Ezoe Robinson, who won with her fab dress inspired by the Lion King...

- Your winning entry was inspired by the Lion King - what made you decide on this as your theme?
I chose Lion King as my theme because it has always been my childhood favourite musical and I love all the colours, patterns and textures in the costumes worn by the actors in the theatre play which provides a lot of things to draw inspiration from.

- How long did it take you to create the dress?
I worked on the dress for 5 months alongside my A level studies to try and get into Central Saint Martins, which included 2 months of researching African art in museums and visiting related events such as the Lion King exhibit at the National Geographic museum. It then took just over 3 months to source materials and make the garment because i made the top half of the dress from loose raffia straw which took a long time to plait and sew individually onto the top half of the dress.

- Why do you think the judges chose your design - what feedback did they give you?
I think the judges chose my design because of the amount of research and thought which went into the concept behind it. Apart from taking inspiration from what I saw visually in the play, I also chose to focus more on the theme of coming of age in the play and focusing on the main character Simba as a grown up adult Lion at the end of the play, This led me to base the silhouette of my dress on the head of an adult Lion with the shape of the bodice based on the ears of the Lion, the raffia detailing around the waist based on the mane of the lion and the cowries shells and tusk beads based on the teeth of the Lion.

- How did you feel when they announced you as the winner?
Wow, I was really shocked and it happened so quickly that at first it didn’t feel real until the presenter handed me the trophy. After that I felt really proud of myself because of all the months of hard work I put into making the unique dress, which really paid off and it also made me feel more determined designer as winning the competition felt like one step closer to becoming a successful fashion designer in the future.

- How many others were you competing against in this category?
At first I was competing against 16 other designers for the young designer awards however many of the participants began to drop out as it got closer to the date of the show, so in the end I competed against 8 designers during the show, which was probably because the competition was very demanding particularly for designers who were still studying hard at school.

- You now have the opportunity to create a collection for the Florida Fashion Design Expo - tell us more about what that will involve...
I am really excited about this opportunity and the Florida Fashion Design expo is an international event which gives new emerging fashion designers a chance to showcase their collections abroad. Now I am going to put together a small capsule collection of 5-6 Avant garde garments for the Florida Fashion Design expo which I am currently deciding on a theme to influence the style of the designs.

Colin McDowell Article In The Business Of Fashion

2011-04-20T11:28:00.001-07:00

We just came across this thought-provoking article by Colin McDowell and felt it was worth sharing. The original article comes from the Business of Fashion website, which is a really good source of fashion news: www.businessoffashion.com

Design is generally about function leading form in a problem-solving exercise that almost always starts with a sense of discontent with what is generally available and a strong determination to make it better and even change radically a template that might have been used for many years. The result, in the hands of the right practitioner, is a completely new solution to the problem, a solution that works for the times, and makes previous thinking irrelevant.

In most design situations there is certainly some looking back and learning from the past — what modern architect would be modern if he didn’t know of the great masters from Palladio to Le Corbusier? But the knowledge is there only to inform new thinking, with no attempt to re-present old ideas as something new in design disciplines.

With the exception of cheap mass housing that works on the principle that deep in our psyches lies a desire to live in something as near to an eighteenth century country cottage as modern technology can create, fashion stands alone in its desire to put form before function and revisit earlier and often quite recent dress eras, in an almost endless series of revivals.

In an increasingly desperate attempt to hide the banality of current fashion thinking, some clueless designers, drafted in to revive old-established labels, actually sell exact copies of the original maestro’s most successful creations from the past, which is about as futile as car kits that clothe a modern machine in a pastiche of a roadster of 70 years ago. Pathetic in car kit sellers; disgraceful in highly paid and ludicrously over-valued fashion stars

Why does all this happen?In order to answer this, I would like to look at what is happening in tertiary education in the United Kingdom as a result of the current government’s financial policies, which have allowed universities and colleges to fix their fees up to the level of £9000 per student per year. Predictably, even colleges charging much less now feel that they must obtain permission to charge the full amount. In fact it has already become part of the never-ending fight between academics in their desire to exalt their status and I have heard it said by just those people that if they do not charge the full amount it will be assumed that their establishment is inferior to others with whom they are in competition.

So it requires no crystal ball to see that within a very brief time all colleges will be charging the full amount for tuition fees — and, I suspect, along with the government quietly phasing out the safeguards such as scholarships and bursaries currently being put in place to sweeten the bitter pill. So education as a right becomes education as a privilege which, like most privilege has to be bought.

How might this affect arts training generally and fashion training specifically?

Any family facing fees of £9000 per year for three or four years must look closely at the benefits such an investment might bring. Initially, at least, these benefits often come from following a path of conformity. But conformity is not where creativity begins. An original eye (and the creative results that might come from it) develops contrapuntally to what is currently accepted as the mood of the moment — and let’s not forget that all great creativity is the result of a divine discontent with the status quo — a discontent that forces a new vision to the fore.

Creators must, by definition, be revolutionaries — and that has been the basis of our liberal art school philosophies for over a hundred years. It has produced David Hockney and Damien Hirst; Ossie Clarke and Alexander McQueen; none of whom came from families who could afford large fees for a college education about which they understood little. But the most important value of state-aided education is that in the past it has produced the politically alien force that drives forward creative change.

True creativity is always political and almost by definition stems from a feeling of alienation that comes from the belief that the creator is excluded from the political mainstream of his time. When Alexander McQueen, Hussein Chalayan and Stephen Jones were students, their lives were those of outsiders. With no money, few prospects, no homes (like other impecunious students, they mostly lived in squats) and an abiding hatred of a society that had produced Thatcherism, they had everything to fight against. Their social alienation was the grit that made the pearl.

That was twenty-five and more years ago and during that time the world has changed. We have increasingly accepted privilege as a right — and one that should be pursued as much as equality was fought for in the past. And such thinking is echoed in the attitudes of our art schools which are, only to often, equally as compliant and complacent. Not surprising.

Whereas students used to want to smash a system they felt was weighted against them, now the students I meet in colleges have usually taken on the middle class aspirations of their tutors and wish to preserve — and join — the ‘make money and be a success’ system. It may sound simplistic, but this is surely the reason why so many of the graduates and post-graduates of our fashion colleges are so incredibly complaisant and conformist.

They are encouraged to be so by The British Fashion Council which is heavily weighted in the direction of the high street, a perfectly acceptable position to be in, but the thinking of the high street has increasingly affected our educational bodies — and of course their products. That is why, despite the hysterical hype of our young designers, there is barely a handful that is not producing stereotypical clothing that not only reflects what is already available in the high street but is never as well made or competitively priced.

Who is it that advises a young designer whose name is barely known four miles a way from Hoxton to charge well over a thousand pounds for a very ordinary dress? And whose interests are they serving — certainly not the long term prospects of the young designer. And, only too often, they are the same people who accept without a qualm when a few seasons later that talent has disappeared, sacrificed on the get-rich-quick approach that knows that when one log has burnt out rather quickly there is always another waiting to be thrown on the pyre.

To conclude, it is generally accepted that the future of fashion depends upon the future of fashion education, although I have some doubts about that. If that education is allowed to become the privilege of the rich and comfortably middle class then London will never regain its position as the crucible of creativity it only so recently had.

Students who see the pinnacle of their hopes and aspirations as buying the latest Prada handbag or getting a table at the Wolesely are of no use at all to London fashion. And, in case it might be said that I have been unfair to our colleges, I would suggest a reality check. British design education (including fashion education) is good, but it is time we stopped using the old mantra that claims they are the best. Their complaisancy has in many cases been there undoing., and what they had that made them leaders has long gone.

For example, is there any proof at all that they are currently producing any graduates with a ghost of a chance of reaching the level of creativity that, say, Marc Jacobs gives us each season? I think not — because the will to change things has been subsumed in the desire for fame and money, not at the peak of a career but as little as five years in. And with it has gone the desire for outrage. Until that is regenerated, many might think £9000 a year rather too high a price for a fashion education that ends up with the high street.

Sir Phillip Green To Launch Fashion Manufacturing Academy?

2011-04-15T10:40:00.001-07:00

Manufacturing academy plans may become a reality...

Retail tycoon Sir Philip Green is in talks with the government to train the next generation of pattern cutters and machinists, by launching a fashion manufacturing academy.
The already successful Fashion RETAIL Academy is jointly funded by Green’s Arcadia empire, Marks & Spencer, Next and Tesco. However, whereas the FRA is entirely paid for by the private sector, the fashion manufacturing academy would be likely to be paid for jointly by the fashion industry and government.

As the debate rages about whether UK fashion universities provide enough technical knowledge to our design students, an academy specialising in garment manufacturing could equip pre-university students with the skills to either go onto a degree course OR go straight to work in industry.

Last month Green threw his weight behind British manufacturing, saying it was the right time to look at re-opening UK factories and that Arcadia would try to bring more production to British shores.

There are lots of positive moves to increase the levels of education in fashion manufacturing, lets hope that it helps to push more students towards this so called "less glamorous" area of the industry.

This week at the Fashion Careers Clinic's "Fashion Fusion Careers Course" at the Fashion and Textiles Museum, students met Nafisa Shaik, who has over 20 years industry experience as a sample machinist, expert seamstress and stylist at the very top of the market. They learnt how this area of the industry could be varied and interesting (and also profitable) and many of them were inspired to say that they may like to try working towards a technical career...Its great news for the UK fashion industry if young people WANT to learn technical skills..long may it last!

Post by Jo Eaton

Clothes Show Style Scout

2011-04-09T10:05:00.001-07:00

Ever fancied yourself as a fashionista? Do you rock the coolest cuts on campus? Then Clothes Show Style Scout needs you!

Clothes Show Style Scout is a fresh new project set up by the UK’s largest fashion and beauty event, Clothes Show Live. The aim is to produce an online journal that is active 24/7 in documenting up to the minute fashion in all of the UK’s area codes, colleges and universities. Stylescout.com is a place to share, see and be inspired!

We are on the hunt for some seriously stylish students to contribute to our feature – Clothes Show Style Scout: The College Years. As part of our super slick Student Style Team of fashion photographers, style finders and bloggers, your role will be to seek out the coolest styles and trends in our fairest and most fashionable unions and student dorms nationwide. So whether you’re in Leeds, Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham or London you’ll be out there capturing the latest from the concrete catwalk!

If you think you’ve got what it takes then here’s what we need from you:

A snap of your stylish self.
A bit of blurb about you, why you love fashion and why you think you deserve to be part of the Clothes Show Style Scout team.
A photograph that you have either found or taken that you think embodies everything that is fashion and style!

Please send to louise.grant@haymarket.com with ‘Clothes Show Style Scout’ in the subject box.

No Fashion Experience Doesn't Necessarily Mean No Job In Fashion!

2011-03-31T07:59:00.001-07:00

Last week the Fashion Careers Clinic met two confident young women who wanted to find work in the fashion industry...
They had already forged careers in other industries but had always harboured a love for fashion and felt that now was the time that they couldn't wait any longer to get started!

FCC looked at both of their CV's and saw that they had lots of transferable skills that could be used in non design roles in the fashion industry. Many people forget that there are thousands of jobs other than design that include lots of contact with the product and the customer!

After providing advice about how their CV's could become more fashion focused, FCC worked with each candidate to find the best ways to increase their industry knowledge and awareness and also looked at the jobs that might be suitable for them.

Customer services, wholesale sales, showroom sales, marketing and brand management are just a small selection of the roles that are available to people with strong transferable skills. The industry is not all doom and gloom and there are jobs for people who are proactive and flexible...If you have another language that is also a bonus!

If you are looking for a career in fashion but don't know where to start then contact the Fashion Careers Clinic to arrange a careers one to one: jo@fashioncareersclinic.com

It might be easier than you think...

Mudpie Fashion & Design Education Group on Linkedin

2011-03-28T09:51:00.001-07:00

It's always great when I hear of a company interested in supporting students and graduates in terms of career development. Mudpie Ltd is one of those companies. Fiona Jenvey, CEO, and her team have launched a new initiative to assist you. Here's a message from them:

All students love facebook, but have you heard of Linkedin?

Want to work in the fashion industry?
Want an internship?
Want to network with real designers?
YES? Then Linkedin is the place to be! It's just like Facebook, a social networking site but for business. Take a look at our Group - there's even a special SubGroup for Students & Graduates that we're currently developing - we'll aim to show you how to set up your profile for the best possible opportunities!

Students and graduates: Please forward this group to all your student and academic contacts
Lecturers: Please pass on to your students
Universities: Please post details of your course and share your news

Link to group
http://www.linkedin.com/groups?mostPopular=&gid=3843665&trk=myg_ugrp_ovr

The Fashion Careers Clinic At The Ideal Home Show

2011-03-23T13:52:00.001-07:00

Steph from The Fashion Careers Clinic has been down at the Ideal Home Show presenting a series of seminars called Fashion Trends For You. Together with a panel of industry experts, she's been on the Ideal Woman Catwalk to explain to shoppers how they can translate this season's key womenswear and accessories trends into their own outfits and wardrobes.

Our panel includes Lisa Taylor, former Design Director for Oasis, Fiona Jenvey CEO at Mudpie Ltd, Alex Brownless from Arts Thread, and Emily O'Brien, Editor at myfashionlife.com

If you'd like to join us for one of the seminars (tomorrow, Thursday 24th at 2.30 and 5.30 and Friday 25th at 1.30 and 3.30), take a look on the Ideal Home Show website for booking information:

www.idealhomeshow.co.uk/cws-fashion-trends/

Preparing A Successful Portfolio

2011-03-21T12:44:00.001-07:00

You may have the vision of da Vinci, but with only five minutes to convince an interviewer of your indispensability, you can't rely on your creative glow to speak for itself. The trouble with artistic spirits is that they are often useless at selling themselves. "It is difficult to be objective about your strengths or weaknesses because creativity is so personal," says Jay McCauley Bowstead, fashion designer and author of A Guide to Preparing Your Portfolio. "You should apply the same level of analytical thinking that you use to communicate ideas or solve problems through your designs to creating your portfolio, so that it illustrates your personality and purpose."

So why hasn't my album of creative highlights launched me into glory? Friends and family will rejoice in the journey through your best moments over a whisky, but potential employers haven't the time to rummage your inner life for insights. "In a crowded marketplace you need to be quite specific about aiming your work in a particular direction," McCauley Bowstead says. "If you have worked for the Big Issue and the Guardian, and apply for a job as a children's illustrator, don't expect the interviewer to intuit from your style that you can make the leap."

But what about that definitive papier-mache sculpture of a pistol shrimp that clinched my art A-level? Let it go, and move on – unless it's directly relevant to your ambitions in user interface design. It's worth manipulating your portfolio to suit the post you're applying for. So, if you're a sculptor with hopes of community art work, take along the photos of the project you accomplished with Brixton teenagers: the brief you gave them, the evolving design and the construction process. If it's a gallery you're wooing, focus on publications that have featured you and a small sample of recent work. "People try to cover all their bases and think that if they include a bit of this and a bit of that they can appeal to lots of different employers. But you need to decide where to focus your energies or it can seem confused," McCauley Bowstead says. "Think of your portfolio as a tool to manipulate the interview. Ask yourself what skills they will need, and when you are arranging the pieces of work, think of it as a narrative which will take the interviewer coherently through your style and ideas."

My inner voice is too big to be confined to a few sheets in an A4 folder. It needn't be. A small, beautifully produced package of work will speak more eloquently than a CV, so slip one in with your application forms to whet appetites. Then, if you are summoned, include different samples in your main portfolio and stick any less relevant masterpieces in a separate folder that you could bring out to emphasise your depth and breadth if the interview is going well.

Isn't this is the digital age? A scrap book of swatches is going to look so dated. By all means promote your talents digitally. A well-crafted website or a multi-page PDF sent with a CV might win that interview, but a tangible portfolio brings your work alive. And interviewers will not want to waste time while you are with them watching you leaf through pages on your laptop when they could access it online in your absence. "Ten years ago there was a big move to very clean digitised images, but now hard skills are becoming more relevant, and having a handcrafted drawing alongside slick commercial work can really lift a portfolio," McCauley Bowstead says.

My website is peerless in flair and content, but no one except me ever looks at it. It all comes back to selling yourself. Find a club or association relevant to your field and get included on its web listings, and link into relevant blogs and social networking sites to capture any passing trade. And once again, don't be tempted to upload your entire creative history – only simple, focused, coherent websites are going to detain potentially valuable passers by.

Original article published in the Guardian online

New Trend Seminars By Mudpie

2011-03-21T05:55:00.001-07:00

Mudpie Autumn-Winter 12/13 Trend Seminar tickets available now

Fiona Jenvey, CEO of Mudpie Ltd will be back at the London College of Fashion on Thursday 9th June to present forecasted trends for Autumn/Winter 12-13.

The seminar programme will focus on the key themes of Remix, Synthesise and Myriad – and will cover the trend development and prediction from initial concepts, inspirations, moods, through to fabrics and colours for Male, Female and Kidswear interpretations.

11.00 - Presentation 1 – Women’s and Menswear Trends - £100
To include Trend publication

Light lunch

14.00 – Presentation 2 – Kids wear – tickets £100 each - only £50 if attending previous presentation 1. Includes Trend publication

16.00 - Presentation 3 – Aimed at Students – tickets £20 each

To book please visit www.trendbookshop.co.uk -there is a special offer of 15% off tickets (excluding bundles) before 22nd April.

2011 FDC Young Designer Show

2011-03-16T03:20:00.001-07:00

Fashion Designers and Craft makers (FDC) Young Designer Show takes place on Saturday 26th March at the Nobel Suite of the Novotel London Hotel St Pancras at 100 -110 Euston Road London NW1 2AJ the event starts at 4pm - 9pm. The gala evening will be hosted by Annaliese Dayes (from Britain’s next top model) and Chyna Desveaux. Selected young designers from all over the UK who have excelled creatively and have the potential to be the next big stars of the international fashion stage will be competing for the coveted Young Designer Award ages 9-25 year and the Radical Collections Award any age over 21 years. A very special showcase at Seattle Fashion Week USA is being offered to one of our 2011 winners.

This year the young designer show participants have also been offered the fantastic opportunity to debut a collection in The Fashion Designers Expo Week based in Florida.

Fashion Designer Expo Florida” is an exciting Fashion Week designed to show the world new fashion superstars, showcasing the best emerging talent from all over the world, FDE Florida offers the excitement and exposure that the emerging fashion talent need from extravagant runway shows to lavish parties.

Joanna Marcella the founder of the show and awards says “Our unique selling point is that our events recognises young multicultural design talent and catapults young fashion designers right on to the international fashion stage.”

At the young designer show on the 26 of March a special announcement will be made about fantastic opportunity for a group of designers to take in part in a all denim fashion show in Monte Carlo Monaco. Some on the designer names participating are: Leeanne Ripley-Garrett, Hannah Bloxham, Gbemisola Okunlola, Teresita Auguste, Gabriele Bernotaite, Keni Magma Puplampu, Kanyinsola Onalaja, Temila Jones, Jessy Sakala and Antoinette Oshodi.

Joanna continues “The FDC Young Designer Show and Awards has been growing from strength to strength and our reputation has reached all corners of the globe, any young designer who would to be part of the great project can still apply to come on board providing they have a collection ready to show and they meet all of the other criteria.”

Joanna and her team are looking for designers who have the potential to be future icons like John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood or Alexander McQueen. For entry details or to attend the show contact Joanna Marcella on email: joanna_marcella@hotmail.com or call: +44 (0) 7940 647 102 / +44 (0) 20 8986 8411.

Do you need a degree to succeed in the fashion industry...?

2011-03-04T03:43:00.001-08:00

This is a questions that was posed to the Fashion Careers Clinic this week by a school leaver who wants to succeed in the fashion industry but does not have the suitable qualifications to undertake one of the many, many fashion related degrees that are out there..
Of course, there are many people who have carved out fabulous careers in the industry without having a degree but it does require hard work and dedication and lots of networking!

The Fashion Careers Clinic is running a two day Fashion Career course at the Fashion and Textile Museum in London that answers questions like the one above and gives students an overview of how they can succeed in the fashion industry. Its free to 16-18 year olds and available to everyone. The first course on the 13/14th April is already fully booked, however there's another the following week - 20th and 21st April. Also keep your eyes peeled for further dates to be confirmed for the end of May...

Visit http://www.ftmlondon.org/news/museum/detail/?ID=115 for more information or email info@ftmlondon.org / phone 020 7407 8664. Although the course is free, you may be charged a cancellation fee if you don’t attend. You will learn all about the different areas of employment in the fashion industry and get lots of top tips to help you progress...

If you can't wait for the course or you need help now, please contact us to book a careers one to one session where we can discuss your individual needs.

If you're interested in getting into fashion marketing, PR, branding or promotion, contact jo@fashioncareersclinic.com

If you're interested in getting into fashion, accessories or textile design, contact Steph@fashioncareersclinic.com

10 ten most famous fashion designers?

2011-03-02T08:05:00.001-08:00

Who do you think are the top designers of the moment?
Here's an article from WebDesignSchoolsGuide.com outlining their top ten:

Breaking into the fashion industry is extremely difficult, especially if you’re young and inexperienced. It can take years to develop a portfolio and save up enough money to start your own line, and even longer before anyone notices it. There’s no age limit for becoming a successful fashion designer, but you do need to possess technical skills, design knowledge and be able to showcase an individual style, like these 10 famous young fashion designers have.

Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen may be known for their role as Michelle Tanner on the TV series Full House, but these young 24-year-olds have made an even bigger splash as successful fashion designers. The twins began their fashion careers when they launched their namesake clothing line for girls ages 4-14 that is sold exclusively at Wal-Mart stores across America. In 2007, the Olsens launched their contemporary collection, called Elizabeth and James, which features vintage-inspired garments and accessories you’d see in their expanding wardrobe. Then, they created The Row, a critically-acclaimed high-end clothing line that launched in 2010. Their newest venture is the stylish and budget-friendly clothing line called Olsenboye that’s available at JCPenney.

Zac Posen: Zac Posen has had a wildly successful career as a young fashion designer. The 30-year-old designer has dressed everyone from Natalie Portman, Kate Winslet and Gwyneth Paltrow to Jennifer Lopez. His beautiful, feminine garments and streamlined aesthetics have earned him numerous awards and praise in the fashion industry. Posen received formal fashion design education at Parsons The New School for Design, and graduated from the womenswear degree program at the University of the Arts London. After college, Posen showcased his collection in GenArt’s Fresh Faces in Fashion New York show, which helped launch his career and namesake label at 21 years old.

Cecilia Cassini: Cecilia Cassini is living out her dream of becoming a fashion designer at the tender age of 10. This little fashionista holds the title of the youngest fashion designer in the country. Cassini specializes in designing clothes for young girls that are colorful, chic and have a touch of couture. Her one-of-a-kind dresses, skirts and tops are sold at Fred Segal and on her personal web site. Cassini’s namesake label has garnered national attention from fashion designers, celebrities and the media for her impressive designs and inspiring story of success. Since she was four, Cassini has been cutting and putting together clothes, and learned how to sew by practicing on her very own sewing machine.

Kira Plastinina: Kira Plastinina is a Russian fashion designer, whose high-end line called Kira Plastinina Lublu has had international success. Her clothing line is known for its edgy styles and girly flare that features lots of pinks, prints and metallics. Plastinina’s love for fashion began in childhood, when she started drawing beautiful gowns and designing clothes for her dolls. Kira’s father, Sergei Plastinin, made her designer dreams come true when he funded her very own fashion line at 14 years old, making her the world’s youngest fashion designer at that time. Her first store was opened in Moscow, and now she has more than 120 stores worldwide.

Christian Siriano: Christian Siriano is a young fashion designer whose talent was first showcased on the small screen as a contestant and winner of the fourth season of Project Runway. Winning the televised competition enabled Siriano to start his own label. His clothing line, Christian V. Siriano, debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2009 and his fall 2009 collection was picked up by Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus and other specialty stores. Since then, Siriano has collaborated with several labels, including Payless, Victoria’s Secret, Puma and LG Group to create a fashion phone.

Marios Schwab: Marios Schwab is a London-based fashion designer who’s known for his strong attention to detail and clever interpretations of natural forms. The young and exciting designer garnered a great deal of attention for his spring/summer 2008 runway collection that featured garments that looked inside out. Schwab’s craftsmanship is truly unique and constantly evolving as he finds new ways to accentuate the female figure. Schwab studied fashion at the Esmod fashion school in Berlin and completed his MA in womenswear fashion at Central Saint Martins. He launched his own label in 2005 and received critical acclaim for the debuted collection.

Ainsley Hansen: Ainsley Hansen is a famous newcomer within the fashion industry. Following her graduation from the Sydney Institute of Technology, Hansen got a job as a stylist for Australia’s Next Top Model. This young Australian designer launched her collection, called Generic Sameness, at the 2009 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week to glowing reviews. Hansen’s line includes traditional pieces with futuristic flare, which she says is inspired by "the progression of globalization." Her ability to combine international trends with hybrid clothing makes her line truly one of a kind.

Roksanda Ilincic: Roksanda Ilincic may be considered a newcomer in the fashion industry, but her collection is well-known among Londoners and her high-profile clients, such as Kate Hudson, Margherita Missoni and Rosamund Pike. Ilincic is known for her avant-garde designs that are both sensible and glamorous. Ilincic graduated from Central Saint Martins and launched her namesake label in London in 2005. Since then, she’s branched out and tried on different looks, but has always stayed true to her hand-sewn trademark.

Phillip Lim: Phillip Lim is a young fashion designer whose line, 3.1 Phillip Lim, has become an instant success. Lim is known for adding a contemporary twist to everyday classics. His chic and individual styles are created for both men and women. Lim found his way into the fashion industry after quitting a job at Barneys in Beverly Hills and landing an internship with Katayone Adeli. Lim eventually launched his own collection with business partner, Wen Zhou, at the age of 31. In 2005, 3.1 Phillip Lim was debuted at New York Fashion Week and received critical acclaim. Since then, Lim has received numerous awards and years of commercial success.

Geren Lockhart: Geren Lockhart is the mastermind behind her fashion line Geren Ford. Lockhart started her brand in 2002 after traveling the world and seeking influence from the art, music and architecture she witnessed. She is known for creating unique, but functional clothing that’s colorful and chic. Lockhart unexpectedly entered the fashion industry after she designed a pair of pants and discovered her passion for fashion. She left her advertising job to study design at Parsons. Her strong attention to detail and practicality for the modern woman has made Lockhart a favorite among critics and customers.

Conde Nast To Launch Fashion School!

2011-03-02T06:11:00.001-08:00

Hmmm, very exciting:

London is to be a design institution richer. Condé Nast, the publisher of luxury fashion magazines Vogue, Tatler and GQ is to launch an International School of Fashion and Design. The school, which will be based in London, will provide foundation level, post graduate and further education courses in the areas of fashion and design.

The school will sit alongside London's other fashion education establishments, such as Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion, which are considered some of the best in the world.

Acceptance to the school will no doubt be as difficult as gaining an internship at Vogue, but once you're in, you're in. We can only imagine the calibre of guest lecturers and course resources.

Original post from Fashion United

Fashion students and Drapers...There is no excuse not to read it!

2011-02-25T05:45:00.001-08:00

Each time the Fashion Careers Clinic visits a Fashion College or University to talk about careers in the industry, we find it amazing how many students don't read Drapers every week!

Everyone in the fashion industry reads Drapers..it's a fact... and even though their web content is impressive and easy to access, office posties across the UK are hunted down on a Friday morning so that someone can be the first person to flick to the back pages and look at the jobs section!
( yes, even in these times of gloom there are some juicy jobs to be had in the fashion industry!)

Once you have found yourself a fab new career, it's time to look at the fashion indicator and see where your brand is in this weeks top ten and gloat if you are there and not mention it if you are not!
By the time you've worked your way through all the fashion news, read interviews with high profile industry movers and shakers and learnt a lot about making your fashion business profitable and successful it's time for lunch...and time to decide who you will pass this valuable commodity over to next!

Graduates seem to under estimate the value of reading Drapers every week and don't seem to realise that it can help them form some excellent inside knowledge of the industry before they begin their job search. Quoting something that you read in "Drapers" shows that you know your stuff and that you are "involved" in the industry. It pulls together the pieces of the jigsaw puzzle and keeps you up to date.

If you're still a student, your fashion college should have a copy, but if you're finding it difficult to get hold of one, Drapers are currently running a promotion for students with an amazing 70% off their usual subscription price.. www.info.drapersonline.com/student_subscription/ for more information.. Show your parents the offer and explain to them how important it is that you see this magazine and maybe they will "invest" in your education to help you out! (But don't say that we said that!) A subscription also gives you access to their vast website which is updated almost hourly with hot fashion news to really keep you at the cutting edge.

The Fashion Careers Clinic has a wealth of insider info to offer to graduates and students on how to kick start their careers in the industry. Visit www.fashioncareersclinic.com for more information or visit our facebook page to follow us. You can book a careers one to one consultation to discuss job prospects, CV and cover letter presentation, portfolio presentation and all aspects of your job search. We also create a personal action plan for each job hunter, including lists of useful recruiters, jobs boards and portfolio sites. Fashion is a competitive industry - you have to work hard to be the best.

This post is by Jo Eaton.

Hobbs To Feature in BBC programme

2011-02-16T04:38:00.001-08:00

Premium womenswear chain Hobbs is to feature in a BBC series about teaching young people about the world of work.

Hobbs creative director Sandy Verdon will mentor a young work-shy apprentice as she works in the world of fashion and retail in the new series Working Girls. Hobbs will feature in the first episode of the show, which is scheduled to be broadcast on BBC3 on February 28.

Each episode in the series will focus on two different girls with non-existent work ethics as they are teamed with two successful business women and put to work over an eight day period.

Verdon said: “Supporting education in fashion through the involvement of Working Girls has given me an opportunity to showcase the variety of careers there are in fashion retailing. I wanted to share my own experience in designing, retailing, visual merchandising and marketing and I hope in some way I was able to outline the rewards of simply working hard in any chosen career. If you are prepared to work hard, show versatility and be a team player then as well as any financial rewards you will feel a sense of achievement and self-esteem.”

This info originally published in Drapers magazine 16/2/11

Fashion Careers Clinic one to one meetings show students the way to go..

2011-02-16T02:55:00.001-08:00

It is tough being a final year degree student who would love to work in the Fashion Industry.. There are so many things to think about..'What job can I do? What skills do I need to do that job? Where do I look for that job? How can I make people read my CV...???'

In a coffee shop in Stanmore, North London, on Monday I answered all these questions and more for a student in the final year of her degree who isn't sure whether to get a job in Fashion PR or stay on and do an MA before she begins her job search.
She has been productive and has gained many internships working in fashion during her studies but had no idea how to sell herself and use this experience to her advantage. Her industry experience will be key in gaining that first paid job but her CV was not selling her in the right way and did not focus in on her skills and what she had to offer a future employer. I helped her re-design the whole thing to give her a focus and make her look VERY employable!

We then discussed the hundreds of different fashion networking sites that are now available. I gave her top tips to get the best of out them and provided her with a list of the best ones that WILL help her succeed with her job search.

Next, came the recruitment agencies! To save her valuable time and effort, the Fashion Careers Clinic provides a list of all the fashion focused agencies and I gave her this with lots of advice to get the most out of them...

Finally, we discussed her options regarding studying for an MA in Fashion and although she has not yet decided which way to go, she is much better equipped to make that decision and has a super sharp CV and great networking tools too.

A careers one to one from the Fashion Careers Clinic can be booked by anyone who wants to work in the fashion industry, or, who already does!
If you need advice to enter the industry, to help you with your job search or make a change to your existing job in the industry, we can help! We have experience across the industry from design to marketing at all levels so can help you whatever you need.

The cost to students and recent Grads is just £40 for a one hour consultation which also includes a personal action plan and three months of follow up support by email or phone.

To book an appointment, email us:

If you're looking to get into fashion/accessories/textile design or styling: Steph@fashioncareersclinic.com

If you're looking to get into fashion marketing, PR, branding or promotion:
Jo@fashioncareersclinic.com

For further information on all our services, please visit our main website:
www.fashioncareersclinic.com

This post was written by Jo Eaton

Trendstop Event at the V&A

2011-02-15T03:20:00.001-08:00

If you are visiting London for Fashion Week, there will be a chance on Saturday 19th of Feb to hear Trendstop.com CEO, Jaana Jätyri speak about forecasted body image and body concepts as part of the V&A museum's Fashioning Body Shape & Style event.

Psychoanalyst and writer Susie Orbach and fashion columnist and author of Coco Chanel: The Legend and the Life, Justine Picardie will join Jaana to discuss the past, present and future of women's body perception and body image in the fashion industry, examining who, why and what influences attitudes towards age, shape and size.

The panelists will explore fashion imagery and inspiration, body modification surgery and the new silhouettes, the ethics of ethical fashion, and the implications of generation in retail. Looking to the future of fashion and what it holds for consumers, the panel will consider the pressure on women to remain youthful, and the trends towards luxury and increasingly fanciful, independent styling in recessionary times.

Jaana will explain how artists are exploring body concepts and the relationship between the body and clothing - viewing the body as artistic and artful rather than sexual – and how designers are making statements through nudity and taking inspiration from anatomy.

The panel discussion takes place at 3.30pm and is part of a free all day event which starts at 11.00am with live styling. Entry to the panel discussion is on a first come, first served basis.

WHAT: FASHIONING BODY SHAPE & STYLE: BODY IMAGE PANEL
WHEN: SAT 19TH FEB 2011, 3.30PM – 4.30PM
WHO: JAANA JÄTYRI TRENDSTOP.COM CEO /
JUSTINE PICARDIE FASHION WRITER AND AUTHOR OF COCO CHANEL: THE LEGEND AND THE LIFE /
SUSIE ORBACH PSYCHOANALYST AND WRITER
WHERE: THE VICTORIA & ALBERT MUSEUM, THE SACKLER CENTRE
CROMWELL ROAD, LONDON SW7 2RL
NEAREST TUBE: SOUTH KENSINGTON (PICCADILLY, CIRCLE AND DISTRICT LINES)

Ooohhh - nice role at H&M

2011-02-14T11:22:00.001-08:00

Just noticed a great design assistant job at H&M advertised on the RetailChoice website - looks interesting: http://www.retailchoice.com/JobSeeking/Design-Assistant_job49585748

Q&A on the Guardian careers site

2011-02-14T08:07:00.001-08:00

As mentioned before, The Fashion Careers Clinic has just done a live Q&A on the careers section of the Guardian website. We joined a fab panel of industry experts to answer reader's queries on getting into fashion design. There's now a wealth of information and advice on there - take a look at http://bit.ly/dKl9zt

Looking for a job in fashion? Get the latest careers advice from a recruiter's perspective

2011-02-11T11:03:00.001-08:00

Steph from The Fashion Careers Clinic will now be producing a monthly blog article for the Guardian on all subjects related to job hunting in the fashion industry. The first one has been published today, and focuses on the current jobs market and prospects for fashion graduates from a recruiter's perspective. Follow the link for the full article and to read advice from consultants at three top London fashion recruitment agencies, including Denza International, 24 Seven, and Hga:
http://careers.guardian.co.uk/careers-in-fashion-a-recruiter-s-perspective

Live Q&A - How To Become A Fashion Designer

2011-02-11T10:32:00.001-08:00

Do you want to make your mark on the competitive world of fashion design? Find out how from a panel of experts in a live Q&A on the careers section of the Guardian website, 14th February at 1pm.

Stephanie Finnan from The Fashion Careers Clinic will be on the panel, together with Jenny Holloway from Fashion Enter, Andrew Groves (BA Fashion Design Course Director at University of Westminster), Fashion Designer, Katarina Rimarcikova, Dr Maggi Toner-Edgar of Toner-Edgar Creative Style Consultancy, and Fashion designer, Vanessa Knox.

On Monday, simply click on the following link to go direct to the Q&A on the Guardian website: http://bit.ly/dKl9zt

You'll then be able to ask the panel for advice on getting into fashion design. Feel free to ask us anything, from salary info to fashion design courses. See you online!

FREE Fashion Careers Courses at The Fashion & Textile Museum in London

2011-01-31T09:07:00.001-08:00

We're really excited to tell you that The Fashion Careers Clinic is holding a free short course at the Fashion & Textile Museum in London. The 10 hour course will be held across 2 days on the 13th and 14th April 2011 and is designed for students aged 16-18. It's completely free and anyone can apply - but hurry as we only have 20 places!

This course is called - not surprisingly - Fashion Careers, and over the 2 days, we'll tell you all about the range of different jobs in the fashion industry. We'll be covering creative roles, such as fashion designer, stylist and makeup artist, as well as roles in fashion business and production. Based on our How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion book, the course is informal and includes advice from top industry experts via a series of interviews. You will also get the opportunity to take part in a practical workshop, develop a personal action plan and CV, and learn about further education and how to find work experience in fashion.

To book your place on this or another exciting course at the Fashion & Textile Museum, follow this link: http://www.ftmlondon.org/news/museum/detail/?ID=115

The Fashion Careers Clinic at the Brightspace Creative Careers Festival

2011-01-29T14:36:00.001-08:00

Yesterday I spent a day in Birmingham doing a series of fashion careers talks and workshops at the Creative Careers Festival, a special event organised by a charity called Brightspace.
It was great to meet young students who are still at school and exploring the various options available to them after their GCSE's. During the morning session, we conducted a talk on the different roles within fashion, how to find work experience and write a CV, and discussed fashion courses available at college and university.

The afternoon workshop was more practical, focusing on how to prepare a fashion portfolio. We showed students a selection of work produced by professional designers, then it was time for them to put what they'd seen into practice, by creating a mood board and design development.

If you're interested in finding out more about a career in fashion, why not ask your school or college if you can have a talk or workshop from us here at The Fashion Careers Clinic? We cover talks on getting into fashion design, marketing, PR and styling. Ask your teacher or lecturer to email Steph@fashioncareersclinic.com for more information...

Fab fashion PR internship!

2011-01-27T07:22:00.001-08:00

4 Month Placement

Obsession PR has put together a scheme for all wannabe PR's out there.

'We don't believe in internships as they can be a complete waste of time for both the intern and the company. Instead we offer a placement for a minimum of 4 months where you train and work as a fully fledged PR; handling your own clients, dealing with journalists and stylists on a day to day basis and generally learning all the tricks of the trade. Contrary to popular belief PR is a fast paced and incredibly demanding sector so be warned, this is not a tea making role! Our clients are mostly fashion but check out our website www.obsessionpr.com to see who our clients are and to learn more about us.

This experience is unpaid but in return we create a full portfolio of all the work and press that is achieved by the candidate. We also pay for any travel into London as well as £10 per day for expenses.

Each and every person that has walked through our door has gone on to great success.

We are based near Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire, the applicant MUST drive.'

Hours are either Mon-Thurs or Tues-Fri 10am-6pm.

If you are interested please contact Graz Wynne-Griffiths - graz@obsessionpr.com

Closing date: ASAP

REF: Fashion Insight

Check out the new website from fashion illustrator, Julie Bouiguerourene

2011-01-26T04:49:00.001-08:00

One of our favourite fashion illustrators, Julie Bouiguerourene, has just launched her updated website. Take a look to be inspired at her fantastic bold style and great use of colour. Julie was the natural choice when it came to choosing the designer of the cover and illustrations for our book, How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion (www.fashioncareersclinic.myshopify.com) and she did a really great job.

See her site at www.jwls.fr

Want to be a fashion stylist? The Fashion Careers Clinic can now help you!

2011-01-25T04:34:00.001-08:00

Since The Fashion Careers Clinic opened in 2009, we've focused on advising graduates and professionals who want to get into fashion design, PR, marketing and promotion. Now we're very pleased to tell you that we can also help those looking to get into fashion styling!

Freelance stylist, Madeleine Ostlie has recently joined the team, and she's available for personal careers consultations in London. Madeleine will be able to cast her expert eye over your portfolio and give an unbiased opinion on whether it makes the grade, as well as explaining how you can find work or internships and how to network within the styling sector. To make an appointment or for more information, email steph@fashioncareersclinic.com

Madeleine is also available to deliver styling workshops and talks at schools, colleges, universities and creative careers events.

Here's a brief overview of her experience to date:

STYLING:
Madeleine has worked for the past year as a Consultant-at-Large for Lulu Kennedy at FASHION EAST and as the Stylist for her new LULU & CO company, which has just launched a retrospective edit collection of dresses by Fashion East designers, to celebrate the 10 year Anniversary of FASHION EAST.

She also assists the Fashion Directors Celestine Cooney of TWIN Magazine and Toby Grimditch of DANSK Magazine; both directional fashion bi-annuals. In the past she has also assisted Kate Phelan, the Fashion Director at British VOGUE. She has shot for magazines like VICE and JUKE Magazine, and her other clients include Marina & the Diamonds and Grace Woodward, whom she styled for BRITAIN'S NEXT TOP MODEL, where Grace was a Panel Judge.

Madeleine also has her own blog - SEAMLESS (www.seamlessfashion.blogspot.com),g and was recently profiled by VICE in a short film as an up-and-coming Blogger.

BUYING:
Madeleine worked for 3 years as a Buying Assistant at TOPSHOP Head Office for the Designer Collaborations & Boutique Departments. Here she gained extensive experience on a high profile department of a market leading retailer, working closely alongside the Department Buyer and Merchandiser, as well as top level management. She worked on garment construction, product development, order maintenance, price negotiation and had strong relationships with factories and suppliers. She left Buying to begin work as a Stylist.

Madeleine was featured in the styling chapter of our fashion careers advice guidebook: How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion. Why not buy a copy to find out her top tips for aspiring stylists? www.fashioncareersclinic.myshopify.com

The Business of Blogging

2011-01-25T03:48:00.001-08:00

I've just read a really interesting article called The Business of Blogging that I thought I should let you know about. It was published today in the online fashion news site, Business of Fashion: www.businessoffashion.com

The article muses whether blogging can really be a money-spinner, and focuses on uber-blogger, Susie Bubble (real name Susanna Lau) of the acclaimed Style Bubble. For anyone interested in online fashion journalism, promotion and branding, this makes for a good read...

The Fashion & Textile Children's Trust - Case Studies

2011-01-20T11:49:00.001-08:00

You may recall that I posted a little while ago about The Fashion & Textile Children's Trust (formerly the Textile Industry Children's Trust). I thought I would post a couple of case studies to demonstrate how the charity helps young people:

Jaimie:

Jaimie Boubezari was just three years old when he first demonstrated his love of performing. While watching his older sister taking part in speech and drama classes, Jaimie was clearly eager to be involved and soon also began taking part in the classes.

At the age of five, Jaimie began taking dancing classes, further fuelling his ambition to one day be a performer. Despite his young age, his talent was evident and he had soon attracted the attention of an agent. Over the next few years Jaimie appeared in television commercials and films including Ali G Indahouse.

With his clear talent and passion for acting growing all the time, Jaimie’s parents enrolled him at a specialist performing arts school when he was nine. At the age of 11, he auditioned for a place at the prestigious Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts. Jaimie and his parents were delighted when he won an 80% scholarship, but knew that they would need to find additional funding to pay for the fees and equipment.

Fortunately, Jaimie’s mother, Rosemary, found out about the grants available from Textile Industry Children’s Trust, which has part-funded Jaimie’s school fees during his time at Italia Conti. During her teens, Rosemary used to work on her parents’ market stall in Glasgow selling children’s clothes. Even though it was some time ago, Rosemary’s involvement in textile retail meant that she was eligible for a grant from the TICT.

Jaimie is now 16 and is a few months into a three-year diploma course at Italia Conti, which is also part-funded by the TICT. Following the diploma, Jaimie intends to become a professional actor.

Jaimie said: “I have really enjoyed my time at Italia Conti and have already had the chance to perform in the West End for a year in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. I’m really grateful to the Textile’s Industry Children’s Trust for making it possible for me to study at an academy devoted to my passion.”

Rosemary said: “Attending the Italia Conti Academy has been such a fantastic opportunity for Jaimie. Without the help of the grant from the Textile Industry Children’s Trust, I don’t know how it would have been possible for Jaimie to follow his dream.

“Sadly they are no longer with us, but I know that my parents would have been absolutely delighted to know that their business in the textile industry has helped their grandson to pursue his ambition to become a performer after all these years.”

Franny:

Franny, 13, has cerebral palsy and is dependent on a wheelchair, which has an impact on her independence. When Franny was five, her mother Clare realised that a tricycle would be a good alternative to a wheelchair as it allowed her greater independence and also gave her cardio-vascular exercise as she needed to pedal to power herself along.

Unfortunately, unlike wheelchairs, tricycles are not currently available via statutory health or social care bodies, but with the help of friends and families, Clare managed to raise funds to buy a specialist tricycle for Franny.

The tricycle provided an effective solution, but as Franny grew older, it became too small for her. The cost of a new purpose built tricycle was going to cost twice as much the original model had cost – Clare knew that they would need to find additional funding to afford it.

Clare heard about the Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust through a relative, and as she had worked in various roles at John Lewis in her early career was eligible for a grant. Along with contributions from friends, family and other organisations, the grant made it possible for Clare to buy the tricycle for Franny in summer 2010.

Clare said “The tricycle is fantastic – it gives Franny a sense of independence that would not be possible without it. It seems a long time ago now, but I was delighted when I found out that the fact I’d once worked in the textile retail industry meant we could get a grant.

“We are really grateful to the Trust for helping to fund the tricycle, which makes such a difference to Franny.”

The Fashion Careers Clinic at The Creative Careers Festival

2011-01-13T14:39:00.001-08:00

The Fashion Careers Clinic is excited to be part of The Creative Careers Festival in Birmingham! This event will be held on the 28th and 29th January and is a FREE festival for young people, teachers and parents that explores careers in the creative industries

The organisers explain:
"The Creative Careers Festival, brought to you by Bright Space in association with mac, is a two day event for 13-18 year olds. It’s the only careers event in Birmingham specifically highlighting careers in the creative industries. Planned and designed by young people, it will showcase a variety of creative careers and the routes into them in a fun and innovative way.

The Bright Space Creative Careers Festival will offer workshops, demonstrations, seminars, mentoring and networking opportunities, entertainment, exciting industry speakers and lots more.

You’ll also leave the Festival with some clear next steps to pursue your creative future. It’s the only event in Birmingham exclusively highlighting creative careers – under one roof!

To find out more visit www.creativecareersfestival.org.uk or call Amy, Shelly or Marcia on 0121 772 6932."

The Fashion Careers Clinic will be delivering practical workshops and talks on how to enter the industry, careers available in fashion, how to find fashion work experience, and how to start a portfolio. These workshops will be delivered by Steph Finnan on the 28th, while Madeleine Ostlie (our styling guru) will be holding styling workshops on the 29th.

This is an amazing opportunity to find out more about the fashion industry and discover how YOU can be a part of it. Take a look on the website above for more info...

Fab Fashion Internship (Paid) at Christian Louboutin!

2011-01-13T05:23:00.001-08:00

Retail Department Intern Job Description
Objective: To provide high quality support to the Retail Team and business through administrative and organizational skills.

Candidate will need:
Minimum of 2 years fashion -retail experience, ideally within the luxury sector
Excellent administrative skills- accurate attention to detail and organized
Excellent verbal communication skills
An assertive & positive attitude
Excellent personal appearance- smart with a sense of individual style
Highly motivated and keen to learn new skills
An interest in fashion and the retail environment
Highly adaptable and able to learn and execute in fast-paced company
Candidate duties will include:
Contribute to collating information for Retail Team from the boutiques
Organize return of defectives/repairs to factory/requesting parts for repair from the factory
Help organize Retail Events- guest lists, invitations, etc
Help organize visual merchandising changes within stores and window displays
Assist in the boutiques with sales at busy times
Assist with sample sales, private sales and the inventory process within the boutiques
Assist Retail Analyst with boutique daily analysis

Please email CV and cover letter to Kimberly Mansfield: k.mansfield@christianlouboutin.fr

  

New Fashion Internships at Mudpie

2011-01-13T04:19:00.001-08:00

Graphics junior- 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Start Date: January 2011

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment. The successful applicant will need to have an interest in graphic design and have accomplished English and numerical skills. Strong IT skills are essential; knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, Excel and Corel would be beneficial. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our graphics editors to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well assisting with the construction of our graphic archive, graphic editing and graphic production. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Trade Fair junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Start Date: January 2011

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking for an intern to assist their busy online trend forecasting service (Mpdclick) within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment, whilst being given the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide variety of industry lead tasks.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in fashion or a fashion related degree, have accomplished English and numerical skills. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop would be beneficial and strong IT skills are essential. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our trade fair editors to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well as assisting with the construction of a number of fashion focused trade fair reports. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Retail junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Start Date: January 2010

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking for an intern to assist their busy online trend forecasting service (Mpdclick) within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment, whilst being given the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide variety of industry lead tasks.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in fashion or a fashion related degree, have accomplished English and numerical skills. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop would be beneficial and strong IT skills are essential. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our retail editor to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well as assisting with the construction of a number of fashion focused retail reports. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Trends junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Start Date: Monday 31st January 2011

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking for an intern to assist their busy online trend forecasting service (Mpdclick) within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment, whilst being given the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide variety of industry lead tasks.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in fashion or a fashion related degree, have accomplished English and numerical skills. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop would be beneficial and strong IT skills are essential. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our trends editors to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well as assisting with the construction of a number of fashion focused trend lead reports. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Landing a Job in Fashion Marketing – Steps to Success

2011-01-10T05:09:00.001-08:00

This post has been written by guest blogger, Dody Sager, from The New School in New York

A career in fashion marketing can be exciting and rewarding, as well as fast paced, challenging and stressful. Despite all the hard work to become successful in this highly competitive field, many people set their sites on a fashion marketing career.

Since fashion marketing is such a competitive field it is easy to get lost among other candidates. Taking the right steps to help land that perfect job is the best approach.

The first step is having the right education for the job. A candidate for a fashion marketing career needs at the very least a Fashion Marketing Degree which will provide the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job.
The second step is to decide which career field you are interested in. There are several directions you can go with fashion marketing, there are many options to choose from within the field; Fashion Buyer, Fashion Coordinator, Production Assistant, Visual Merchandiser, Merchandise Manager or Stylist.

The next steps would be to consult with a job placement specialist; most fashion programs offer assistance with this. Other things to do include networking by attending parties, trade shows, fashion shows and other events where you can interact with potential employers, just make sure to have plenty of resumes and business cards to hand out. It is very important to keep up with current fashion trends during the job hunting process as they are constantly changing and you must be up to date. Lastly, talk with peers and exchange tips for interviewing, try doing practice interviews with friends and peers.

For more information on each career type visit job boards and employer sites and read about the opportunities available in this field.

New Graphic Designer Role At Mudpie

2011-01-10T05:02:00.001-08:00

Media and Publishing: Graphic designer

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Closing Date: 28th January

Required: CV and Samples

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie Ltd is looking to extend its creative team. Mudpie is an international publisher of information for the fashion and creative industries with a large UK design studio based in Hampshire. The successful applicant must have at least 1-2 year’s experience and technical knowledge of software such as Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Basic HTML, CSS, Javascript, Adobe Dreamweaver and Flash. The applicant will have excellent layout skills, have had experience working with magazine type layout, and be able to generate marketing material, branding and corporate identity work and packaging. Mudpie wish to create a stunning brand presence via both online and printed media.

This position requires a good all-rounder, with a creative background and an impressive design portfolio.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. At Mudpie your career potential is unlimited. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

When applying please include the subject ‘Graphic Designer’ in all correspondence.

Internship Available at Purple PR

2011-01-05T05:02:00.001-08:00

As part of a fast growing PR agency we are always looking for keen and hard working interns, and currently we have a position preferably 4 - 5 days a week (mon-fri).

You will be working along side me, in the cuttings department. This role involves a whole host of daily tasks from checking for coverage in newpapers, magazines and online to sourcing specific titles requested or generally helping out the fashion, music, lifestyle and beauty departments.

Day to day jobs may include:

- contacting publications regarding magazines that are needed

- checking for coverage in all forms of media outlets

- keeping the cuttings area in order

- scanning coverage and sending to account managers

- helping out all members of staff when needed, this can be anything from lookbook send outs to show prep.

I am looking for someone who really wants to learn about the PR industry, and has a good work ethic!

Please contact me via email with a short covering letter and CV and send to: louise.davis@purplepr.com

Internship Available At The Dune Group

2011-01-05T04:23:00.001-08:00

The Dune Group - Intern

We are currently looking for an intern to work in our busy press office. The candidate must be organised, pro-active, sociable, take initiative, have good time-keeping skills and be available for 3 days a week for a total of 6 weeks. He/she will report into the Press Assistant and support the press office in the day to day activities.

General tasks will include:
- Sending out samples to the press
- Returns
- Keeping the sample room tidy at all times
- Updating PR Shots (online image database)
- Filing
- Compiling coverage documents for internal use
- Basic admin

Please visit http://www.fashioninsight.co.uk/index.php?main_page=insight_details&service=common§ion=jobs&cat_id=5946 to view the full job description and apply.

Or email a copy of your CV to jobshr@thedunegroup.com

RECRUITMENT CONSULTANCY FOR CREATIVE GRADUATES

2011-01-03T14:39:00.001-08:00

Here at the Fashion Careers Clinic, we like to let you know of other useful resources and websites focused towards helping fashion graduates. We met the lovely people behind Arts Thread at Graduate Fashion Week last year, so thought we should tell you about their latest venture:

ARTS THREAD Resource is the only recruitment consultancy worldwide that specialises in placing creative graduates.
Their recruitment team is vastly experienced, and each consultant has over 10 years recruitment expertise and prior to this have had successful industry careers.

ARTS THREAD's vast database of creative clients worldwide are looking to hire graduates for permanent, freelance or short term contracts.

ARTS THREAD will also help the creative industry find graduates for internships across the world.
The creative industry will only be directed to graduates who have an ARTS THREAD online portfolio, allowing them to make a decision instantly via direct URL link.

Artsthread specialise in the following areas:

Fashion/Textiles/Accessories
Visual Communication
Industrial/Product/Spatial
Ceramics/Jewellery/Glass

For further information: www.artsthread.com

How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion - Special offer!

2011-01-03T11:28:00.001-08:00

Happy New Year!

Ok, it's a new year, and time to get focused! If you're considering a career in fashion, you may be wondering how to go about it - which courses to take at fashion college, how to find work experience, or which A-levels to take.
Or you might need more info on exactly which area of fashion you want to eventually get in to. If so, our careers advice guide is here to help.

'How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion' is designed for students looking for information on everything from design and trend, styling, buying, fashion PR and marketing, fashion journalism, makeup artistry, fashion show production, pattern cutting and visual merchandising. We've included guidance on subjects to consider at school and college, a whole chapter on finding work experience, useful websites, plus lots of interviews with industry insiders from companies such as Topshop, ASOS, Versace, LOOK magazine, River Island and Lulu Guinness.

Until the end of January we're giving away a free necklace (by our friends at high street fashion retailer, Vero Moda) with any purchase of the book from our online store: www.fashioncareersclinic.myshopify.com

Need a helping hand? Re-launched fashion and textiles charity is here to help!

2011-01-02T11:01:00.001-08:00

The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust is launching a new campaign to promote its educational grants for the children of people working in the UK fashion and textiles sector.

Backed by some of the biggest names in the sector, including Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and John Lewis, the charity is keen to reach out to the fashion and textile community to find cases of particular need that it may be able help with.

Established in 1853, the charity is modernising with a change of name (up until November 2010 it was the Textile Industry Children’s Trust), as well as an updated brand and a new website with links to Twitter and Facebook.

The Trust supports children with special talents – sports, music, dance or drama – and provides tutorial support to children with special educational and physical needs. The support can be a simple grant for equipment, a welfare grant, or continuing support at special or boarding schools.

Anna Pangbourne, Director of the Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust, says:
“In the coming year, we have a huge challenge to reach the children of employees in UK companies who need our support. We want to be able to help families and make a difference… we’re here to help!”

Eric Musgrave, CEO of UK Fashion and Textile Association, says:
“The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust is a gem of a charity. It’s also our gem – backed by the industry, supporting the children of the people working in the industry. I’d urge everyone to get behind them and support them in the valuable work they are doing.”

Educational grants are available to help the children of people who are working (or have previously worked) in fashion in its broadest sense – including womenswear, menswear and childrenswear at all levels, and including lingerie and hosiery. There is also help available for people in footwear and all of the textile sectors including homeware.

The Fashion & Textile Children’s Trust supports the children of people from all sides of the business - whether an individual has worked in a shop, in a factory, in the head office, in a call centre or in a warehouse.

Grants may in some cases be available for the official carer of a child, who may not be the parent of the child.

For further information/pictures please contact Ben Caspersz on 07738 195625 or ben@claremont.org.uk or visit www.ftct.org.uk

Sponsor Found For Graduate Fashion Week!

2010-12-17T06:35:00.001-08:00

Just read in Drapers that a sponsor has been found to fund Graduate Fashion Week - none other than George at Asda! Granted, it doesn't have the same ring about it as previous sponsors River Island and Topshop, but good on them. It would have been such as shame for the long-running event to be cancelled, so well done George for stepping up!

YOUNG DESIGNERS

2010-12-16T12:01:00.001-08:00

I recently became aware of a new concept called Young Designers, and thought I should share it with you. Here's some more info:

Young Designers Limited is an online fashion website showcasing young
emerging designers clothing and accessories. The website provides designers with the opportunity to showcase their fabulous unique cutting edge fashion. Follow their blog for latest fashion news and reviews, for an opportunity to meet the designers, and for updates on the launch of their new website: www.youngdesignerslimited.com

FASHION DESIGNER REQUIRED

2010-12-16T10:02:00.001-08:00

EMPLOYER: Mega Fashions
LOCATION: Leicester
SALARY: Negotiable

This established clothing manufacturer of Ladieswear is looking for an experienced designer with several years of post-graduate experience.
Educated to degree level, the ideal candidate should be creative, have knowledge of working on woven product, and be aware of up-coming trends.
This role is to begin in Jan/Feb 2011.
Please email CV and several images of your design work to Amar Afzal at megafashions@hotmail.co.uk

FASHION JOURNALISM INTERNSHIP

2010-12-16T09:47:00.001-08:00

Here are the details for a fab internship I noticed on the Fashion Insight website:

This is a fantastic opportunity to work alongside some of the industry’s top fashion writers and reporters and will enable you to gain valuable insight into the running of London Fashion Week’s Official newspaper.

LFW The Daily is seeking an enthusiastic and well organised intern with good communication and organisational skills being essential. Responsibilities include organising all ticket requests, creating show and presentation schedules and overseeing all general admin tasks.

The position will run from January until the end of February.

Closing date: ASAP

Please visit http://www.fashioninsight.co.uk/index.php?main_page=insight_details&service=common§ion=jobs&cat_id=5811 to view full job description and apply.

NEW WORK PLACEMENTS AVAILABLE AT MUDPIE

2010-11-28T10:22:00.001-08:00

Graphics Junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Deadline for application: 10th December 2010

Start Date: January 2010

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment. The successful applicant will need to have an interest in graphic design and have accomplished English and numerical skills. Strong IT skills are essential; knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite, Excel and Corel would be beneficial. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our graphics editors to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well assisting with the construction of our graphic archive, graphic editing and graphic production. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Trade Fair junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Deadline for application: 10th December 2010

Start Date: January 2010

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking for an intern to assist their busy online trend forecasting service (Mpdclick) within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment, whilst being given the opportunity to develop their skills in a wide variety of industry lead tasks.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in fashion or a fashion related degree, have accomplished English and numerical skills. Knowledge of Adobe Photoshop would be beneficial and strong IT skills are essential. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail. Throughout the placement the successful candidate will be given the opportunity to work alongside our trade fair editors to gain knowledge of image handling and management, as well as assisting with the construction of a number of fashion focused trade fair reports. Towards the end of the placement they will also be invited to work within the design and sales/marketing teams, to learn how our trend information transcends to other areas of the company.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Marketing and Sales junior - 3 month work experience placement

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Deadline for application: 10th December 2010

Start Date: January 2010

Required: CV

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk
Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking for an intern to assist their busy sales & marketing department within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This is a great opportunity for a student or graduate to gain some experience of working in a busy and challenging environment.

The placement will be for three months, and applicants will be given the opportunity to assist with the following; uploading and sourcing industry contacts to our CRM system, writing press releases, assisting with research for magazine collaborations, preparing marketing materials for trade shows, media and press research, basic design jobs and writing articles for our online service Mpdclick. Applicants will also be given the opportunity to experience working within other departments of the company.

The successful applicant will need to have an interest in business marketing and sales and have accomplished English and numerical skills. Strong IT skills are essential; knowledge of Excel and an interest in the fashion industry would be beneficial. Applicants need to be hardworking, enthusiastic and possess great attention to detail.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have their own transport and a full UK license.

To be considered for this position applicants must send a CV to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

THE FASHION CAREERS CLINIC AT THE CLOTHES SHOW LIVE!

2010-11-25T02:51:00.001-08:00

We're very excited to announce that The Fashion Careers Clinic will once again be exhibiting at The Clothes Show Live at the NEC in Birmingham (3rd-8th December). For careers advice and the chance to buy our best selling careers advice book - How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion - pop along to our stand at CF34 in the College Forum. Normally priced at £12.99, we will be selling the book at a special exhibition price, together with FREE goodies from our friends at Vero Moda!

Not only that, but new for 2010 is our series of exciting fashion careers advice seminars which are being held at the event between 6-8th December! Aimed at school and college students, we are holding 4 seminars per day - one on design & trend, one on buying, one on styling and one on fashion journalism.

If you're curious as to what's really involved in a career in fashion and want to hear top tips from industry insiders, now is your opportunity to find out!
You'll have the chance to listen to advice from a several speakers on each panel, and we'll be taking questions from the audience too.
We've got some great speakers for you, including the wonderful Caryn Franklin, buyers from ASOS, cool stylists, and designers who've worked for Miss Selfridge, Berghaus, Kurt Geiger and more!

To book your tickets and view the seminar schedule, visit:
http://www.clothesshowlive.com/educational-seminars/educational-seminars-timetable

We look forward to seeing you there!

NEW ROLE AVAILABLE AT MUDPIE!

2010-11-25T02:32:00.001-08:00

Fashion Graphic Designer

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Required: CV and samples of fashion graphics

Application Deadline: Friday 10th December 2010

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This full-time role will require experience using creative Adobe programs, while knowledge in CorelDraw would be an advantage. Experience in fashion graphic design, with knowledge of web-based products would be preferred. This individual must have strong research and communication skills and be able to efficiently manage schedules and deadlines. Main tasks will include creating trend-led fashion graphics and all over prints for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby, while being involved in trend led intelligence.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Students - FREE trend facility from Mudpie!

2010-10-29T08:46:00.001-07:00

Mudpie Student Resource Area now gives you even more

Mudpie’s Student Resource Area has increased by 60% since last month and this great resource now offers even more free information for all aspiring fashion, textile and interior designers.

Students can now download their highly acclaimed MPD Insight magazine free and the Fast Fashion report ‘Boy Scout’ keeps you updated on developing trends. Mudpie’s Design Manager dispenses valuable career advice on how networking can help you develop your career post qualification and we have extended the deadline on our editorial and photographic competitions until 5th November.

Sarah Wade – Managing Editor of mpdclick.com is delighted with the dramatic response “We have received really useful feedback from students and Universities and we will continue to develop this area further with feedback from students themselves.”

Mudpie offer a range of academic subscriptions for universities so students can benefit from the depth of the mpdclick service and develop their potential whilst studying. For further information please email enquire@mudpie.co.uk

It’s simple to sign up to the Student Resource Area – click on this link - http://www.tinyurls.co.uk/Z14382 or visit www.mpdclick.com

FAB INTERNSHIPS AVAILABLE!!!

2010-10-27T05:39:00.000-07:00

For those of you looking to get into fashion journalism, here are a few really interesting ones I spotted on the Fashion Insight website:

Calling all interns for roles available at S Magazine, Sugarscape.com and Sunday Times Style

S Magazine - Fashion Intern

We are looking for interns to work for month long placements on The Sunday Express fashion desk. There will be a number of duties for the intern during the placement including:

- Organising returns of samples to PR's

- Assisting on photo shoots

- Writing credits from photo shoots

- Gathering information for articles

- General assisting the fashion team

This role is unpaid however travel costs of up to £8 per day will be covered.

Please visit http://www.fashioninsight.co.uk/index.php?main_page=insight_details&service=common§ion=jobs&cat_id=5159 to apply.

Sugarscape.com - Paid Intern

Sugarscape.com is looking for a full-time, paid intern.

The ideal candidate will be confident, lots of fun, hard working and wanting to kick-start their web journalism career. An interest in all things web is essential. Don’t have a Twitter? Fed up of Facebook? Never used YouTube? Then you don’t need to apply.

The role includes sourcing amazing competitions for the website, lots of blogging about film, music, lads and interviewing A-List celebs.

If you have any video editing skills that would be a bonus!

Please visiti http://www.fashioninsight.co.uk/index.php?main_page=insight_details&service=common§ion=jobs&cat_id=5160 to apply.

Sunday Times Style - Work Experience

Sunday Times Style is looking for someone, still in education, with interests in magazines and fashion for a 2 week - 3-month internship (starting ASAP) working in the fashion department. The role is full-time and unpaid and involves sample call ins, returns as well as the possibility of going on shoots and assisting with product pages.

We are looking for someone who has a good knowledge of the fashion industry, who is organised, keen and works well under pressure.

Please visit http://www.fashioninsight.co.uk/index.php?main_page=insight_details&archive=true&service=common§ion=jobs&cat_id=5036 to apply.

NEW FASHION GRAPHIC DESIGN ROLE AT MUDPIE!

2010-10-21T02:28:00.000-07:00

If you're a qualified fashion graphic designer and on the look out for a new role, this could be the one for you:

Fashion Graphic Designer

Location: Romsey, Hampshire

Required: CV and samples of fashion graphics

Application Deadline: Wednesday 27th October 2010

Contact: louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

Mudpie, an established international fashion trend forecasting company, is looking to extend its team within their large UK design studio based in Romsey, Hampshire. This full-time role will require experience using creative Adobe programs, while knowledge in CorelDraw would be an advantage. Experience in fashion graphic design, with knowledge of web-based products would be preferred. This individual must have strong research and communication skills and be able to efficiently manage schedules and deadlines. Main tasks will include creating trend-led graphics and all over prints for womenswear, menswear, girls, boys and baby, while being involved in trend led intelligence.

Mudpie is an ambitious company and is interested in receiving applications from individuals who can share our company vision. Applicants must have own transport and a full UK driving licence.

To be considered for this position applicants must provide relevant samples of their work in a printable format alongside a CV and send them to louise.fenner@mudpie.co.uk

OUR NEW BOOK IS NOW AVAILABLE- HOW TO PREPARE FOR A CAREER IN FASHION

2010-09-23T08:49:00.000-07:00

Hi all, I'm pleased to tell you that after many months of hard work, our first book is now available. Published by Adelita, The Fashion Careers Clinic Guide: How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion is the essential careers guide for anyone looking to get into fashion.

We've covered over 15 job profiles, including designer, stylist, buyer, fashion journalist, makeup artist, trend researcher and show producer. Some amazing people have contributed to the book, giving a real insider's account of what it's really like to work in the industry. For instance, discover how Lucy Wood, News Editor at LOOK magazine got her big break, top tips from Alice Jackman who designs for Topshop, and hear how Faye Bamber got her fab buying job at ASOS.

The book is jam packed with practical advice on finding work experience, how to find a fashion course at Uni, and how to prepare a fashion CV.

Now available from WH Smith, Tesco, Waterstones and via our online shop: www.fashioncareersclinic.com

The Fashion Careers Clinic in the Guardian- your fashion questions answered!

2010-09-05T15:59:00.000-07:00

I'm taking part in a live webchat all about routes into fashion on the Guardian online careers forum tomorrow, Monday 6th September between 1-4pm. If you would like to ask me or another member of the panel a question, please join us then, or post your question in advance. Follow this link then go to the Live Q&A section:

http://tinyurl.com/32g6she

You'll be able to ask any question you like on routes into fashion, with answers from industry insiders, Kate Carter who is lifestyle editor of the Guardian online, Sophie Harper from Red Alert Agency, Jude Ross from Skillset, and me from The Fashion Careers Clinic!

Whether you're interested in fashion design, fashion PR, marketing, textiles, journalism or buying, we're here to help with your fashion careers queries, so please post as many questions as you want.

SC51 AND STATES OF EMOTION

2010-08-29T08:32:00.000-07:00

HAVE YOU HEARD ABOUT COOL NEW MENSWEAR BRAND, SC51? Here they outline their involvement with "States of Emotion":

SC51 are proud to announce their association with red hot band “States of Emotion”.

STATES OF EMOTION are four young, talented and jagged musicians from the South East. The band write music together that can be described as pure, anthemic, honest, pop songs with an original exploration of moods that is so rarely achieved

They are on the verge of great things, with a series of gigs across the country and an appearance on the BBC introducing stage at Glastonbury... The band will be wearing SC51 when they gig and the brand will be giving away CD’s, tickets and opportunities to see the band..watch this space…

For SC51 samples and further information about the band contact Jo Eaton at SC51

joanne.eaton@wdt.co.uk / Tel 020 8753 0133

www.sc51.com

www.facebook.com/fashionSC51

Twitter: @fashion SC51

FASHION INTERNSHIPS ARTICLE

2010-07-24T10:52:00.000-07:00

Check out this very interesting in the Guardian today: http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2010/jul/24/fashion-industry-interns

It mainly focuses on a couple of interns who've worked in the studio of Alexander McQueen, and while their stories seem unfair, there are no surprises here, and nothing different to what most interns go through. I say most, however when I did my work placement during my uni years, I did get paid (and a pretty decent salary too, on a par with what most graduates get in their first roles). I'm fully in agreement with the argument that if an intern is doing a proper job on a long term basis, then in an ideal world they should be paid at least something for it (and not just expenses either). But especially during a recession, many fashion labels would go out of business if they had to pay everyone they employed. Like the article mentions, the majority of small UK based labels only survive with the the help of an army of interns. Meanwhile, the interns are barely surviving - living on thin air, or the lucky ones funded by their parents. So, what's the solution? Sadly, I don't think there is one. Fashion is the type of industry where there will always be huge competition and scores of people queueing up to offer to work for free - this problem is likely to get worse before (if?) it ever gets better.

THE FASHION CAREERS CLINIC ON THE 24 SEVEN BLOG

2010-06-24T09:04:00.000-07:00

The lovely ladies at uber cool talent consultancy, 24 Seven, have just uploaded a mini interview about The Fashion Careers Clinic on their blog. Read on for more info about how we can help people looking for work in the fashion industry and for top tips for fashion graduates.

Take a look at the rest of the 24 Seven blog while you're there - they have all the insider info and gossip!

http://24sevenlondon.wordpress.com/

NEW FASHION JOBS FOR GRADUATES!

2010-06-18T05:13:00.000-07:00

Check out the jobs section on our main website to see a couple of new roles we recently posted that are suitable for recent fashion graduates!

www.fashioncareersclinic.com

MINI CATWALK REPORT FROM GRADUATE FASHION WEEK

2010-06-18T03:48:00.000-07:00

Lois Cheetham reports on the Gala Show at Graduate Fashion Week 2010:

Some of the many highlights of Graduate Fashion Week (GFW) include the multiple catwalk shows that are staged. With collections coming from 22 universities there are always a few to really watch out for, however the hottest show has to be the Gala Show which featured the best collections from this years' graduates in a superb stage production.

Not only does this event showcase the hottest talent at GFW it also gives us the opportunity to see the work of the ten candidates nominated for the River Island Gold Award. One of the FAB prizes for this award includes two years aftercare from the Graduate Fashion Week mentor team, an invaluable prize for any designer.

This years' Gala Show saw many trends coming through. Jackets were a prominent feature in both the female and male collections, ranging from the classic fitted jacket – occasionally with large structured shoulders – as well as individual, quirky pieces. As well as the jackets there was a large range of tailored trousers and shift dresses all made to fit with a classic style.

It also appeared that another popular trend formulated in the style of sheer, with tops, dresses and leggings all made from a transparent material. Colour wise, monochrome appeared often with white being the main colour in several collections, including the one by Gold Award winner, Rebecca Thompson. Prints have also stayed popular however this year they take on more of a tribal feel, featuring bright yellows, oranges and turquoises.

With the lights bright, the music loud and this years designers on top form, the 2010 Gala Show was certainly one to watch!

GRADUATE FASHION WEEK 2010

2010-06-16T23:19:00.001-07:00

So, Graduate Fashion Week is over for another year, and what a week we had!

Here at The Fashion Careers Clinic, we're only just recovering from 5 full days of fashion madness - we love fashion, but 5 solid days of it made us want to crawl into our plainest, comfiest anti-fashion clothes!

Anyway, sorry our daily update didn't go quite as planned - we were fit for nothing after late nights and early mornings took their toll on our scrambled brains! So, what impressed us at GFW? Well, the Gala Show last Wednesday night was as slick as it always is, beginning with a fantastic dance display from Britain's Got Talent winners, Diversity! I'm not sure the uber cool fashion crowd were really into their performance, but I thought they were pretty good.

Clothes wise, there were some really polished collections, but as always, my favourite didn't win the top prize of the River Island Gold Award (given to the person the judges deemed to be the overall winner of GFW, and who received a humungous cash prize of £20k!). Everyone I spoke to thought that Anna Lee from De Montfort University deserved to take the top prize with her beautiful womenswear collection featuring rainbow colour prints and amazing statement necklaces with huge tiger faces! (I WANT those tiger faces, as do about a hundred others!). Anna didn't do badly, deservedly scooping the Zandra Rhodes Textiles Award (no surprises there - it was such a Zandra style collection). However it was a very different collection - inspired by the white shirt - which won the Gold Award for Rebecca Thompson, a graduate from Manchester Metropolitan University, who was presented with her award by judges including top Italian designer, Alberta Ferretti.

Congratulations to all of the winners from the Gala, and to ALL of the students who presented their final collections at Graduate Fashion Week - there was a huge amount of talent on show, and everyone should be really proud of what they achieved.

THE FASHION CAREERS CLINIC IS AT GRADUATE FASHION WEEK!

2010-06-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

Hi all,

The Fashion Careers Clinic is exhibiting all of this week at Graduate Fashion Week in London.

GFW is THE showcase for up coming new fashion designers to present their collections to the Press, Buyers, Headhunters and public. Students from universities and colleges from across the UK and Europe show their work on the catwalk and via a static exhibition, where many months of hard work will be unveiled.

It's been over 9 years since I showed my final collection at GFW as a graduate of Northumbria University, but I can still remember the late nights, tears and stress in the run up to the show - I know how the students must be feeling tonight - a mix of excitement, tiredness and nerves - how will their collections be received??? GFW is the place where buyers from top boutiques source new collections, where headhunters from major brands seek new talent, and where one lucky graduate will be chosen as Graduate Designer Of The Year!

We'll be bringing you all the news from GFW on a daily basis, from tomorrow until Thursday.

In the meantime, we thought you'd like to see some behind the scenes shots of everyone setting up their exhibition stands....

If you would like to visit Graduate Fashion Week, the exhibition is open to the public all day tomorrow, Sunday 6th June, and tickets can be booked to see the catwalk fashion shows throughout the week. See the official website for further info: www.gfw.org.uk

If you're down at GFW, please come to see us at stand F108 - we're there all week!

Steph

THE FASHION CAREERS CLINIC

www.fashioncareersclinic.com

MUDPIE TREND SEMINAR!

2010-05-19T05:21:00.000-07:00

Are you interested in getting a sneak preview on trends for Autumn/Winter 11-12? If so, and you're a student, check out the info below to sign up for this special trend seminar presented by leading forecasting company, Mudpie.

Student Event:

Mudpie's CEO, Fiona Jenvey will be presenting the Autumn/Winter 11-12 trends entitled 'The New Equilibrium' at the London College of Fashion on Wednesday June the 9th (20 John Prince's Street, London W1G 0BJ)

4pm - Student Seminar - Women's & Men's trends (for casual, demim & street)

Ticket price: £10 per student (discounts available for multiple tickets, please phone for details)

To book tickets online please visit:http://www.mudpie.co.uk/lcfseminar.htm or phone +44 (0) 1794 344040

As well as gaining an insight into Mudpie's forecast trends for the season, you will also be able to chat with Mudpie's experienced creative team and gain valuable career advice and find out about opportunities available.

Sign up soon - places are limited!

NEW FASHION CAREERS ADVICE ARTICLE IN THE GUARDIAN

2010-05-10T09:44:00.000-07:00

Hi - I just came across this article featured in the Guardian the other day, outlining tips on how to approach finding a fashion internship. Check it out - the advice is harsh but true!

http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/apr/29/top-tips-career-fashion

TAKE A LOOK AT THE FIRST IDEAS FOR OUR NEW BOOK COVER!!

2010-05-10T03:07:00.000-07:00

As you will see from the blog post below, our first book is being published this year.

'How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion' isn't quite ready yet, however we thought you might be interested to see what the cover might look like! We're working with am AMAZING illustrator called Julie Bouiguerourene who has a fantastic fun and bold style to her work. Can't even tell you how excited I am by her stuff! Check out her work on the following sites:

Site: http://www.jwls.fr

Mini Book: http://jwls.ultra-book.com

Blog: http://creativeaddiction.blogspot.com

Apparel: http://www.glamarchy.com

Although not finished yet, here's a copy of 'work in progress'.

I'll update you all with the finished version asap!

THE FASHION CAREERS CLINIC IS PRODUCING A BOOK!

2010-05-10T02:53:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to announce that our first book will be published in September this year!

The first in a series of fashion advice guides, 'How To Prepare For A Career In Fashion' is being published by Adelita Ltd, and is aimed at students who are still at school, 6th form and college. There will be job profiles on over 20 roles in fashion, from designer, buyer, stylist, and make-up artist, to fashion journalist, fashion show producer, and trend forecaster, as well as advice on work experience in fashion and educational routes to consider.

We've been conducting market research with students from across the UK, to find out what their concerns and questions are about jobs in fashion, and have taken those questions to be answered by top industry insiders from companies like Top Shop, Versace, DKNY, ASOS, Lulu Guinness and Liberty. You'll be able to find out how much designers really get paid, what the worst thing is about working as a make-up artist, which courses to consider for a career in fashion design, and the qualifications you need to work as a fashion buyer.

We will try to include as many questions as possible from students, so if you want to be included in our survey, it's not too late to take part. Simply click on the following link for access to the questionnaire: www.surveymonkey.com/s/RJKSBKG

You can also join our Facebook group for regular updates on the progress of the book: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=101426756565084