I’ve always wanted to work in fashion. My dream job growing up (after I gave up on being an Olympic horse jumper) was to work at a print magazine. Namely, Vogue. I’ve had some people laugh at that, but I think that if your dreams don’t frighten you then they’re not big enough. And the thought of an interview at Vogue, W or Harper’s Bazaar frightens me terribly.

I can already imagine how nervous I would be while sitting in a glamorous lobby waiting for an assistant to come fetch me. But it would be glorious. Also, at this point I’d settle for writing a digital article for a major print magazine. You know, just to say that I did it. However, having aspirations of being in the fashion industry is one thing—actually working in it is another.

Of course, knowing people who already work in fashion is one key to unlocking the door. The more people you know, the better. After all, what they say is usually true: it’s not what you know but who you know. But other than that, what does it actually take?

What It Actually Takes to Work in Fashion

First of all, you need to have knowledge.

Having knowledge about fashion is fantastic, but you also have to be passionate about it. Anyone can spit facts and memorize details. However, it’s easy to tell who’s zealous about something and who isn’t. And it doesn’t just stop at fashion. Having knowledge about what’s happening in the world, in your city, in the industry—it’s all going to show your passion for learning and your interest in discovering new things.

I’m constantly working to gain all the knowledge I can and to understand the ins & outs of the fashion world. Something that helps me become more aware of the industry is working with other people who are trying to do the same thing as I am. Surrounding yourself with people who have similar interests will propel you into working harder towards your dreams.

Also, an individual style is a must.

You are the only you in the world. Remember that. Showing off your personal style is cool on a regular day but it’s essential when you work in fashion. Anyone can wear on-trend clothes and look good. But it takes personal style to turn those trends into fashion looks that are distinct to you. Look at Chanel for example. When you see a Chanel collection, you know it’s Chanel. And when you see Prada or Jacquemus or Saint Laurent, you know which is which.

If you’re only interested in following the latest craze or copying other people, you’re not going to last long in the fashion world. At the core of the industry, individuality is gold. That’s what’s going to make you successful. Not to mention, memorable. And who doesn’t want to be remembered for their clothing choice?

Lastly, you need to possess confidence.

I have a quote hanging on my wall that says “confidence has nothing to do with ability.” It’s something that I believe is so true when it comes to following your dreams. If you limit yourself because you’re afraid or you don’t think you know how to do something, you’re the only one who’s going to suffer. The best way to get better at things is by submerging yourself in them.

Let me tell you a story. At an internship I had at an Australian fashion label, I was stuck in the basement packing orders and organizing stock. It was not what I wanted to do at all. One day I heard my boss talking about how they needed someone to edit images and work with InDesign. Even though I didn’t fully know how to use the program, I volunteered for the position. A little bit of Googling and playing around, and I learned what I needed to. I got myself out of the basement and up into the office with the rest of the cool cats.

Ultimately, to be in fashion you need to work extremely hard, be fierce in what you do, create your own personal style and love every minute of it. Or at least try to.

All “Work in Fashion” photos by Evangeline Davis.