How to Navigate a Career Shift within or into the Fashion Industry

As the new year unfolds, many of us find ourselves reflecting on our careers, contemplating changes that could lead to more fulfilling paths or even enhance traditional paths. Speaking to Sandy, who is a lawyer by trade, we find out why she decided to make the transition from more corporate, conventional law into law within the fashion industry and what the benefits to making this leap looks like. “The fashion industry’s impact on almost every other industry is undeniable, and by design, it is one of the core industries that truly connects people globally,” Sandy reflects. Her journey from more conventional law to law within fashion underscores a universal truth: an industry shift, especially into fashion, is not merely about shifting jobs but about transforming one’s life to weave together diverse passions into a coherent, fulfilling career.

The fashion industry, with its dynamic nature and role as a beacon of cultural conversations, demands more than a mere passion for style. It requires an objective evaluation of one’s skills and experiences, identifying areas of strength and opportunities for growth. Sandy’s story illustrates this beautifully. Despite her success in other industries and specialisations of law, Sandy harboured a deep-rooted passion for fashion and writing, recognising the potential to blend all these seemingly disparate interests. “I have always believed in non-absolutes, and that we have the ability to design our lives daily,” she states, embodying the essence of adaptability and creativity that the fashion industry prizes.

Transitioning into law within fashion also means further stepping into a world where networking and relationships can help  careers. Like the traditional legal industry, the fashion industry thrives on connections, not just for the opportunities they can unlock but also for the rich tapestry of perspectives and ideas they introduce. Sandy’s experience highlights the critical role of networking, especially for those coming from outside the traditional fashion pathway.

“Working as a lawyer full-time over the last 7 years in London, I have also been continuously freelance writing for various publications. From my writing, I’ve had the ability to step into the industry from a press/media perspective. I didn’t have any support at that time and didn’t know any lawyers who also wrote, so it was a case of putting myself out there at these events and networking” she recalls, emphasising the importance of being an active participant in the industry’s community, even when it means embracing the label of an “outsider.”

Indeed, the notion of being an outsider is something Sandy and many career changers must reckon with. Luckily, Sandy found her niche through The Outsiders Perspective (TOP), a program that celebrates the unique insights and diversity of thought that individuals from non-traditional operational backgrounds bring to fashion. “It was the first time I felt like I was being celebrated for being an ‘outsider’ instead of put aside for not fitting neatly into one box or the other,” she shares. This sentiment echoes a broader truth about the fashion industry: it is continually enriched by fresh ideas and innovative approaches.

However, navigating a shift  into law within fashion is not without its challenges. The learning curve can be steep, as Sandy attests. From mastering new skills to understanding the intricacies of the industry, the journey demands dedication and a willingness to learn. “I embraced it with open arms!… It was a little intimidating, but when the opportunity actually presented itself, all I could feel was gratitude,” she explains.

Sandy’s wish to journey to  law within fashion exemplifies the art of skill translation, illustrating how professional expertise in one field can illuminate and enrich another. “To name just a few — I believe my organisational, communication, and writing skills are all transferable from my legal career into law within the  fashion industry.”

For those contemplating a similar change, Sandy offers this advice: “Do it, don’t wait. The time is now and not later. And if you are hesitant because you feel like an outsider — chances are you are just where you need to be. Whatever is making you feel that way is what sets you apart, and that is truly what the fashion industry needs more of. The beauty of it is that it constantly needs boldness, diversity, and unique perspectives, and we all should have access to offer this in different ways.” Sandy’s transition into law within fashion is not just a shift; it’s a testament to the power of pursuing one’s passions, blending skills and interests in novel ways, and the beauty of contributing to an industry that thrives on innovation and creativity.

Programs like The Outsiders Perspective, pave the way for individuals to venture into new territories. These initiatives are instrumental in guiding people into spaces where their unique contributions can flourish. Exploring the benefits of such a program can be a game-changer, offering a launchpad for those ready to embark on a journey that transcends conventional career paths, ensuring that the essence of diversity and innovation continues to enrich the fashion industry.