Top 5 Networking Tips for Emerging Creatives in the Fashion Industry

The word ‘networking’ often puts people off. There’s this stigma around having to talk to people you don’t want to in order to see where and what you can get out of them – a lifeless transaction. It doesn’t have to be this way if we focus more on creating meaningful connections and speaking to people to learn, listen and find common ground. We work in the creative industries after all, every campaign, design and brand once stemmed from inspiration, and there’s nothing inspiring about a transaction! 

Aswan Magumbe, our Content Coordinator who graduated from Central Saint Martins in 2023, has since used networking to build her professional community, leading her to freelance work with the likes of Wonderland Magazine, Thursday’s Child and The Stack. So, we asked her for some advice on how she approaches things. “It’s so easy to be passive and quick with people, but more than I want to network, I want to know and learn about people. I feel that from that point is where true collaboration and networking come in” she explains. 

When centering it around connecting with others, networking becomes a lot less formulaic. In fact, it becomes fun. Here, we’ve compiled our top five tips and techniques you can implement, to make building your industry network one that will serve you in the long term and not just in the moment. 

Elevate Your Introduction with a Concise Elevator Pitch

Your introduction is your first impression—make it count with an elevator pitch that succinctly presents who you are, outlines your career ambitions, and highlights your passions within fashion. This approach not only sets the stage for deeper conversations but also signals your serious intent to build a meaningful career in the space.

Harness the Power of Social Media

Social media platforms like Instagram and LinkedIn are invaluable for displaying your work and linking with like-minded professionals. “Following them…and making sure to support them where I can…engagement and sharing are important and incredibly valuable,” Magumbe advises. This strategy not only keeps you in touch but also enhances your visibility for future opportunities.

Seek Out and Attend Fashion Events

Events and shows are the lifeblood of networking in fashion. They’re opportunities to immerse yourself in the industry’s vibrant community. Leveraging social media to discover events hosted by emerging artists and agencies. Introduce yourself, make new acquaintances, and always follow up with a personalised message to cement these new relationships.

Prioritise Meaningful Connections

In an industry as dynamic as fashion, quality outweighs quantity. Strive for authentic relationships rather than a vast network of shallow contacts. “The fashion industry thrives on personality and personability…by putting yourself out there, you’re positioning yourself to be seen and open to work, connection, and new ideas,” reflects Magumbe. Regular, meaningful communication and sharing resources enrich these connections, transforming them into valuable professional bonds.

Embrace Mentorship and Collaboration

Mentorship and collaborative endeavours are cornerstones of success in fashion. Identify and reach out to those whose work inspires you, proposing collaboration or seeking guidance with clarity and respect. A mutually beneficial relationship, where both parties learn and grow, is the ultimate goal.

By integrating these strategies into your networking efforts, you’re not just expanding your contacts—you’re building a rich, supportive network that’s rooted in genuine relationships and shared aspirations. The key is to remain authentic, proactive, and open to the myriad of opportunities that the fashion industry presents.