Fashion designer : Employers and vacancy sources

The majority of fashion and clothing designers work for branded/high-street stores and independent labels. They may be employed at an in-house design studio based in either a manufacturing or retail organisation.

Others work in specialist design studios serving the couture and designer ready-to-wear markets and their work may include producing designs for a number of manufacturing or retailing companies. However, the top design houses are a relatively small market compared with the high street fashion sector.

Some fashion designers find work overseas with designers based in Europe and the USA. If you are interested in working abroad, Apparel Search  has a directory of fashion contact details including companies and fashion organisations around the world. In addition, Fashion United  has its own career centres in a number of European countries and the USA.

Opportunities also exist for self-employment. Freelance fashion designers can market their work through trade fairs and via agents or by making direct contact with buyers from larger businesses or niche clothing outlets.

A number of organisations offer specific training and support for setting up a fashion business. The British Fashion Council  is in the process of setting up a Business Support Network and The Design Trust  has a downloadable Business Start-up guide.

Designer-maker organisations such as Hidden Art London  offer new business awards and studio space for London-based designers. Check your local Business Link  to access specialised fashion business support elsewhere in the country.

Sources of vacancies

• Search graduate jobs on this site.
• Drapers Jobs  
• The Appointment   
• Guardian Jobs  
• Arcadia Group   

Recruitment agencies, specialist publications and fashion networks are an important source of contacts and vacancies. There are numerous agencies that represent different market levels. These include:

• Denza International   
• Indesign  
• Fashion and Retail Personnel   
• Smith & Pye  

Get tips on job hunting, CVs and covering letters and interviews.