The fashion industry offers a wide range of opportunities for those with creativity, artistic flair and an eye for colour, shape and texture. Jobs exist for all levels of staff, from assistant to top designer, and openings can be found in export companies, with fashion shows, and in the couture business.
Most people entering the industry have a degree in fashion. Designers, who receive average salaries of between £28,000 and £34,000, often begin as design assistants. Assistant rates start at £16,000 and can increase to £19,000 over time, while senior positions, such as directors, offer salaries from £80,000 to £100,000.
Models generally work on a freelance basis and find most of their work through agents, who take 20 per cent commission. They are paid for each booking, with rates from £50 to £1000 per job. Models may also work for fashion houses, earning salaries in the region of £12,000 to £18,000
On the other side of the counter are buyers, who purchase clothing and accessories from designers on behalf of wholesale suppliers and stores. Buyers, who normally require both fashion and retail experience, receive salaries of between £25,000 and £40,000.

• Communication and stress management
• Customer service and team work
• Interacting with people
• Time and Project management
• Organisation and Flexibility
• Being creative and adaptable
• Speaking several foreign languages
• Being able to establish long lasting work relationships
• Being organised and practical

If you work in the retail aspect of Fashion, you are not expected to have any specific qualifications. Employers, however, want their workers to be skilled in customer service, sales, promotions and retail. Based on performance there is always room for growth and receiving a high salary or commission.
Professionals who have Retail, Merchandising, Sales, marketing or Business qualifications have a great advantage on their competition. Accepted qualifications include NVQ, GCSE, or HNC. Being a part of a professional body helps with networking and job growth. Fashion Retailers can join the   Chartered Society of Designers (CSD), Textile Institute, Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), and UK Fashion & Textile Association.