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Fashion journalist: Job description and activities

A fashion journalist needs all the attributes and qualities of a successful print journalist, such as researching and writing skills. They use the written word to portray what is, essentially, a visual medium in interesting, creative, entertaining and imaginative ways. They need to understand the national and international fashion industry, taking into account wider and more diverse factors, including societal, cultural and economic contexts.

Tasks typically involve:

• communicating the constantly changing fashion market to a wide audience;
• reviewing and keeping abreast of new ranges, designers and trends;
• visiting and building contacts with relevant PR companies;
• attending press open days, trade and consumer shows;
• researching the fashion media;
• interviewing designers;
• organising and attending fashion shoots;
• writing and editing features and news stories.

The Central St Martins College of Art and Design offers an MA in Fashion, with a specific pathway in fashion journalism. The University of the Arts London - London College of Fashion offers Bachelors, PG Certificates and MAs in Fashion Journalism. The University for the Creative Arts offers a three year BA degree at its Epsom campus. Other undergraduate courses incorporate fashion journalism.

Fashion journalists are likely to be employed by national or specialist newspapers and magazines. Freelance opportunities also exist, with an increasing number online. The National Union of Journalists (NUJ)  can provide further information and support for freelance journalists in all settings.

The continuing expansion of digital media may increase opportunities to move into broadcast journalism, either as a researcher, reporter or presenter.

Fashion is a particularly fast-paced, even cut-throat, industry. You will need to be willing to work hard, have confidence in yourself and make as many relevant industry contacts as you can. Work experience is crucial to getting into the business.

For more information see Newspaper journalist.

AGCAS

Written by Tim Reed, University of Kent

Last updated:

September 2009

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