What College Education Do You Need to Be a Fashion Editor?
If you're looking for an all-access pass to this season's hemlines and heels, a career as a fashion editor could be right down your runway. Before you throw out your lab coat and chemistry books for a sharp suit and copy of "Vogue," you must be up to the challenge. Take a three-pronged approach to college education and study a variety of topics to be successful.
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Fashion
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An innate knowledge of and appreciation for fashion is essential for a fashion editor. Take fashion courses so you know the difference between pencil and a-line skirts. Learn about fabric weights, color schemes and what looks right on each figure. Don't declare a major in fashion -- your outfits and portfolio will speak for themselves when you apply for jobs -- but it wouldn't hurt to minor in fashion. Design some outfits and start taking high-quality photos for your portfolio.
Journalism
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Consider a major in journalism if your writing and creation skills as much better than your math and analysis skills. Journalism will give you a base in magazine production, page layout and insider strategies. Take courses in advertising, writing and photography. Learn to put a page together so that you understand what your staff is doing when you rise to the position of fashion editor. Talk to your professors about your aspirations and ask if you can tweak major class projects so they have a fashion bent to get you ready for your future career. Don't despair if every project doesn't have a fashion twist. Everything you learn will make you a stronger candidate for future positions.
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Business
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Declare a major in business if you're good at math and analysis. Marketing is an especially helpful specialty. The magazine business is driven by advertisements. Learn to create and sell eye-catching advertisements. Learn to manage a staff, recognize economic trends and oversee day-to-day business operations. With a background in business -- and your sense of style -- you'll be an asset to any magazine that employs you.
Other Considerations
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If you can, get involved in student media. You'll get a few bylines under your belt. Take some photos for the college magazine or newspaper, too. Work your way up so you can suggest your own assignments; cover the student fashion show or report on a new hot (or crazy) trend. Try to write pieces you can include in your portfolio. Intern during school breaks. Look for magazines, talent agencies, designers or photographers who will help you learn more about your trade in exchange for free labor. Take plenty of courses in the subjects you don't major in -- after all, you have many requirement-free credits for a reason.
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