She Strengthens

The Unvarnished Truth About Working in Fashion

As a 28-year-old assistant buyer for a small chain of high-end boutiques in New York City, I’ve learned that the glamorous life I once dreamed of is far from reality. My salary of just over $40,000 a year is barely enough to cover the costs of living in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

The Illusion of Glamour

I’m not alone in my struggles. Many young people working in fashion have some form of financial support from their families, which can create a sense of self-consciousness for those of us who don’t have that luxury. The harsh reality is that making a good living in fashion is extremely difficult, with limited upper-management positions offering competitive salaries and benefits.

The Cutthroat Industry

Fashion is an industry where young women (and some men) often burn out or quit after a few years, only to be replaced by newer, cheaper talent. It’s not uncommon for those who do stay to eventually leave the industry altogether, often to marry and settle down. For those of us who are passionate about our work and want to build a successful, comfortable life, the industry can be incredibly cutthroat.

The Pressure Cooker Environment

I’ve seen bosses throw clothes at underlings in a state of panic, and no one dares to complain because that’s just the way things work. If you can’t handle the pressure, you’re quickly replaced by someone who will do the job for less money. Establishing your value is difficult, and proving yourself indispensable is near-impossible.

The Harsh Realities

Brutal layoffs and job elimination are normal in the industry, even for people who were considered “friends” just the day before. The industry operates on razor-thin profit margins, leaving little room for kindness or compassion. These are harsh realities that you must accept if you want to get ahead in fashion.

Why I Stay

Despite the challenges, I love certain aspects of my job. I get a thrill from seeing my own selections perform well in stores, and I’m surrounded by aesthetic beauty constantly. I’ve set goals for myself, including moving up to buyer and eventually creative direction or consulting. However, I’m also aware that I may need to consider moving to a less glamorous company to achieve a better work-life balance and salary.

The Unromanticized Truth

Fashion is not the glamorous life it’s portrayed as in the media. It’s an industry that trades on caché to compensate for low wages and long hours. For every marquee job that makes a ton of money, there are countless jobs that barely scrape by. It’s time to face the unromanticized truth about working in fashion.