Top Three Fashion Career Advice from HASOU’s Industry Mentor Sarah Brennand

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Woman with short blonde hair, wearing large glasses, a denim jacket, and layered necklaces, smiling in a black and white photo. — Sarah Brennand

At HASOU Fashion Academy, we’re committed to guiding the next generation of fashion professionals. Our Global Industry Fashion Recruiter Mentor, Sarah Brennand, shares her top three expert tips for standing out in a competitive fashion landscape.

1. Tailor Your Portfolio & CV

Avoid generic applications. Customise your portfolio and CV to reflect your personality and the specific role you’re applying for – whether it’s in design, production, buying or social media. Showcase relevant skills like Photoshop, Illustrator, CLO3D, and any hands-on experience, such as internships or freelance work.

2. Network – In Person & Online

Fashion is a relationship-driven industry. Attend career fairs, fashion shows and industry events. Strengthen your online presence on LinkedIn and Instagram by following brands, engaging with recruiters, and connecting with professionals. Remember, many opportunities come through word of mouth and industry referrals.

3. Be Industry-Savvy & Brand-Aware

Creativity is key, but so is commercial awareness. Understand the latest trends, key industry players in the fashion sector, and the positioning of brands. In interviews, speak confidently about a brand’s aesthetic, customer profile and how your work aligns with their vision.