HOW TO STUDY FASHION: FOR BEGINNERS

As a young person just coming into the fashion world it can be a bit overwhelming. Where do you start? What brands should I know? What should I do? Many of us have had these questions, I know I have and that is completely fine. You are not imcopentnet, you are more than capable of anything you put your mind to and in these days anything is possible. As long as there is a willingness and interest, you can accomplish it.

In fashion, it is normal first coming in to not know where to start and what you're really really interested in. For instance, you can be interested in design but have a stronger interest in learning about the history of fashion and its industry. There are a range of different things you can learn and grasp from the fashion industry and I am here to give you some tips on how you can start studying fashion. It can be from a library, a park or the comfort of your own bedroom.

Now when it comes to studying fashion there is a wide range of different things you can study within the realm of fashion. Whether that’s fashion design, fashion communication, styling, jewelry design, photography, manufacturing and so much more. There are many different paths to go on within the realm of fashion and its important to first get a grasp of what interests you and explore that interest.

1. Take in what you see

Starting off with an easy tip. Watch fashion shows. Whether that's during your lunch break or before you go to bed, watching fashion shows will grant you the exposure you need in order to study fashion and understand it. Fashion shows are a vital part of the industry as they showcase new styles of the season and spread awareness about new designs. Fashion shows are easy to find on the web or on YouTube. All you have to do is search up a fashion show in the search bar and pick whichever show you would like to watch. It can be a specific brand or year, doesn't matter, just enjoy the art and beauty of the show. Now, if you like to watch behind the scenes videos and how shows come together I suggest Youtube Channels like FF Channel, Loic Pregent and any top designer channel as they will have loads of content. Moreover, if you don’t like sitting and watching fashion shows but like break down analysis of different fashion shows and commentary on different fashion idioms I would also suggest Bliss Foster, Haute Le Mode,and The Fashion Archive. All three of these channels are great for gaining knowledge and in depth analysis on fashion and designers. Whatever works for you the best, stick to it and I guarantee you will gain an immense amount of knowledge. At this time I am going back and watching Bliss Foster’s Maison Margiela series where he breaks down every fashion show that Martin Margelia has ever made at Maison Margiela. The series is very in depth and has an immense amount of analysis it is worth checking out. Since my start in studying fashion I have realized over the years that many of the trends that we see on the runway are reflected in mainstream brands like Zara and Shein. This in turn allows us to see the true beauty in fashion and how each look on the runway is conceptualized.

2. Gain more knowledge & experience

My second recommendation is to start reading fashion articles and magazines, whether that's Vogue, Elle, or Harper's Bazaar. Fashion articles serve as a gateway to the fashion world through the expression of words and photography. Fashion articles and magazines help conceptualize the discovery of a trend or designer you've never heard of. Fashion magazines are all about cultural findings and being able to find something that captures your eye. Another recommendation is starting an online course that focuses on fashion. Whether that is design, journalism, history, business or whatever, it will help you further your understanding in fashion. There are many online courses for fashion new comers. If you are looking for something easy and affordable, sources like Skillshare, Coursera, or FutureLearn are great places to start and browse around. I currently have two certificates from FutureLearn and they have been very helpful in my journey in fashion.

Gaining certificates that are recognized and accredited can help you in gaining more experience and knowledge within fashion and other endeavors. Many of these accredited courses are recognized by very well known organizations and universities that offer a wide range of courses to help you advance in your study in fashion.

3. Gain hands-on experience

My third recommendation would be to get hands-on experience. Whether that's a job at a thrift store or an outlet store at the mall, this can give you the ability to gain more opportunities. Now I know for some people this can be hard but if you are able to do this that is great. Another alternative can be to apply for internships and due to Covid-19 many of these internships are remote so you won't have to leave your home to get experience. Overall, whatever hands-on experience you can gain, take it because in the long run it can result in great opportunities.

4. Create your own

My fourth recommendation is to explore your interest and create your own project. For instance, let's say you are interested in fashion communication or journalism, the best thing you can do to better your knowledge and improve your skills would be to start a blog or a zine that explores whatever you are interested in. Being able to create new things like lookbooks, developing your sketching skills, learning how to use a sewing machine, building a portfolio, or your own styling videos will help you adequately build upon your skills and knowledge. Find joy in what you do and it will bring out your creative side to keep making new and amazing things. I became a fashion columnist for the digital and print zine, All My Friends Zine and that helped me build my confidence in my work and my skills thus I created my own blog, Miuse Journal.

I encourage anyone out there, whatever age you are to start now and don't give up on yourself. Find joy in what you love and act on it.