Recent Grads: Take Any Job or Hold Out?

Graduating from college can be exhilarating and daunting all at once, especially when it comes to starting your career in the fashion industry. With dreams of designing runway collections or working for top brands, the pressure to land your “perfect job” right out of the gate can feel overwhelming. But what happens when those ideal roles aren’t falling into your lap? Should you take just any job to get started, or hold out for that perfect position?

The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Every career journey is unique, and there’s value in both strategies. But if you find yourself unsure of which path to take, here’s a way to look at it: instead of lowering your expectations or giving up on your dreams, think about the experiences you can gain from almost any job. Every role—whether it’s in fashion or a related field—can offer something valuable if you approach it with the right mindset. Specifically, when evaluating your options, look for roles that provide one (or more) of these three things: experience, credibility, or income.

Build Your Experience
While it’s tempting to hold out for your dream job at a top fashion house, the reality is that most of those positions require some industry experience. The good news is, you can start building the necessary skills now, even if the role you take doesn’t seem glamorous. For example, if your goal is to become a fashion buyer, taking a role in retail or inventory management might not be your end goal, but it will give you a strong foundation in customer insights, trends, and supply chain logistics.

Ask yourself, “What skills will I need to eventually land my dream job?” Then look for roles that will help you develop those skills—whether it’s in fashion or a related field like marketing, public relations, or event planning. The key is to start building experience that you can leverage later, even if the job isn’t perfect.

Consider Credibility
Sometimes, it’s not the role itself that matters but the reputation of the company you work for. Working for a well-known brand, even in a less-than-ideal position, can make your resume stand out when it’s time to apply for more competitive roles. Having a reputable name on your CV can be the golden ticket to your next big opportunity.

For example, if you’re offered a role in customer service at a luxury brand, the experience may not align perfectly with your ultimate career goals, but the association with that brand could open doors in the future. It’s worth considering the long-term benefits of credibility, especially if the company is a major player in the fashion world.

Don’t Underestimate the Power of Income
The fashion industry, while glamorous, can be competitive and often requires an initial hustle before landing that dream job. Sometimes, it’s OK to take a job primarily because it provides a steady paycheck while you continue your search. In fact, financial stability can give you the freedom to keep looking for the perfect fit without the pressure of making a rushed decision.

If a job offers you financial security while allowing you to save or invest in skill-building activities (like fashion design courses or networking events), then it’s worth considering, even if it doesn’t seem directly tied to your long-term goals.

Expanding Your Perspective
Remember, the perfect role might not come right away, and that’s OK. There’s incredible value in learning from each job you take, whether it helps you build experience, gain credibility, or support yourself financially. Taking a job that isn’t perfect doesn’t mean giving up on your dreams—it means taking strategic steps to eventually reach them.

By expanding your perspective and staying open to different opportunities, you’ll build a career that is uniquely yours. Be patient with the process, but also trust that each step you take will bring you closer to your goals.

Don’t let the fear of making the wrong choice stop you from starting. Your career is a journey, and every role—big or small—can contribute to your future success in the fashion industry. Whether you take any job for now or hold out for the perfect position, remember to keep your long-term goals in mind and continue growing along the way.