10 Things to Delete From Your Fashion Resume

Your resume may contain information that’s no longer relevant—and some of it could be costing you interviews.

The fashion industry has changed considerably over the past decade, but many professionals are still using resumes built around outdated conventions.

Today’s fashion recruiters and hiring managers want to know what you do, what you’ve accomplished and how you can contribute to their business.

Here are 10 things to consider deleting from your resume.

1. The Objective Statement

“Seeking a challenging position in the fashion industry” tells employers what you want, not what you offer. Replace it with a brief professional summary highlighting your expertise, industry experience and business value.

See also: Resume Summary Statements for Experienced Fashion Industry Professionals

2. “References Available Upon Request”

Fashion recruiters know they can request references. This phrase is unnecessary and takes up valuable space.

See also: 4 Rules for Professional References
See also: REPLAY: Professional References

3. Your Full Mailing Address

Your city and state are sufficient. Employers don’t need your street address to evaluate your qualifications.

4. Every Fashion Job You’ve Ever Had

Your first job as a showroom assistant probably isn’t relevant to your current search for a VP of Sales position. Concentrate on your most recent 10–15 years, while retaining older experience that demonstrates particularly valuable qualifications or brand relationships.

5. Endless Lists of Job Responsibilities

Recruiters already understand the basic responsibilities of Buyers, Designers, Merchandisers and Production Managers. Instead of listing routine duties, highlight accomplishments such as increasing sell-through, improving margins, reducing production costs or growing wholesale accounts.

6. Long Lists of Brands You’ve Worked With

Working with recognizable fashion brands can strengthen your resume, but listing every brand, license or retailer you’ve encountered can become excessive. Focus on names relevant to your target employer and explain the nature and impact of those relationships.

7. Generic Soft Skills

“Creative,” “passionate about fashion,” “team player” and “detail-oriented” are overused. Demonstrate these qualities through results. For example, successfully launching a new collection says more about your capabilities than simply calling yourself creative.

See also: Communicating Hard Skills & Soft Skills

8. Outdated Technical Skills

Fashion technology changes quickly. Remove obsolete software and basic computer skills that don’t differentiate you. Emphasize relevant expertise such as PLM platforms, 3D design applications, Adobe Creative Suite, ERP systems and advanced Excel skills.

9. High School Information and Old GPAs

If you’ve spent years working in design, merchandising, sourcing or retail management, your high school information and college GPA are unlikely to influence hiring decisions. Your degree, relevant training and professional achievements matter more.

10. Unnecessary Words and Filler

Fashion resumes frequently contain lengthy descriptions that say little about actual performance.

Instead of:

“Responsible for managing overseas vendors and ensuring timely delivery of merchandise.”

Try:

“Reduced overseas production lead times by 18% while maintaining quality standards.”

The second version communicates measurable business value.

Your resume is a marketing document, not a complete history of your fashion career.

Fashion employers are looking for professionals who can help them design better products, improve profitability, increase sales, manage costs and operate more efficiently.

Every line of your resume should reinforce your ability to deliver those results.

The goal isn’t simply a shorter resume. It’s a more compelling reason to interview you.