Securing a fashion industry internship can be challenging, but there are proven tips and tricks that can get you closer to landing one. Vogue College of Fashion BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice alumnae, Ying Xuan Ling and Damilola Odeyemi, share how they landed their first roles and made lasting impressions that shaped their careers.

How to Find a Fashion Industry Internship

The first step in your fashion career journey is to stay curious and proactive. Opportunities exist everywhere, from LinkedIn and brand websites to specialized industry job boards. Many successful applicants find their internships through careful research and persistence rather than connections.

“There were already over a hundred applicants,” recalls Ling, who began as a Content Writing Intern at womenswear brand Love, Bonito before joining Vogue Singapore. But, she applied anyway. “You never know what might come through.”

Left: Vogue College of Fashion BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice alumna, Ying Xuan Ling

How to Prepare Your Application

Once you’ve found a promising opportunity, preparation makes all the difference.

Your resume should be concise and easy to navigate. According to Ling, “For creative roles, it’s okay to add a touch of color or design. Just keep it clean and professional so the layout enhances, and doesn’t distract from, your experience.” Align your listed skills with those mentioned in the job description and update your LinkedIn profile to reflect the same.

Your cover letter is your chance to add a personal touch and pitch why you’re a good fit for the brand or company. Avoid generic templates; instead, tailor each cover letter to the company’s mission and projects.

“That’s where your personality and uniqueness can really shine,” says Odeyemi, Digital Sites Operations Assistant at Ralph Lauren. “Dive deeper into your experiences, even pulling in unexpected skills and showing how they could actually be valuable in the role.”

Finally, curate a portfolio that showcases your creative identity, whether it’s writing samples, styling projects or visual design work. It should showcase your professional work while reflecting your personal voice and brand.

Left: Vogue College of Fashion BA (Hons) Fashion Communication & Industry Practice alumna, Damilola Odeyemi

How Networking Can Lead to Opportunities

Networking in fashion doesn’t have to be intimidating. For Odeyemi, it started at Vogue College of Fashion. “I met the CEO of Hlabs, Hannah Springett, during a talk she gave,” she recalls. Later, at her final exhibition, she had the chance to reconnect with Springett and discuss her passion for fashion illustration. That conversation led to her first interview.

She credits her professors and mentors for facilitating introductions which led to valuable connections. “The college gave us access to a wide array of professionals I wouldn’t have met otherwise. My professors were always supportive and eager to connect me with people who aligned with my skills.”

The lesson is simple: networking isn’t always about who you know, but how you engage. Being genuine, curious, professional and proactive in following up after events or guest lectures can open doors in unexpected ways.

Fashion Internship Interview Tips

Although interviews can be intimidating, it’s important to remember that they are a two-way conversation. Interviews are an opportunity for both you and the company to learn about each other and see if it’s the right fit.

Ling explains, “It’s easy to fall into the trap of feeling like you’re being judged and losing control, which naturally makes you nervous. But remember, while the hiring manager is assessing if you’re the right fit for the role, it’s also your chance to see if the job and company are a good fit for you. It’s an opportunity to ask questions, clarify expectations and get a sense of the work culture.”

Odeyemi found that practice was her best tool for managing nerves. “I practiced with my sisters, which gave me confidence and made me approach the interview more like a professional conversation than a test.”

In addition to mock interviews, it’s important to research the brand so you’re familiar with their mission and culture. Preparation is the best way to ensure that your responses are natural and authentic.

Try your best to approach interviews with calm confidence and remember that rejection doesn’t always reflect your ability—sometimes it’s simply not the right fit at that moment.

Understanding Pay and Negotiating Professionally

Fashion internships can vary greatly in pay and benefits, so it’s important to understand your worth before you accept an offer.

“Always research the market rate for internship pay,” advises Ling. “Even if a company lists a standard rate, it’s okay to ask questions or negotiate, especially if you’re bringing relevant experience or committing to a longer-term role.”

Clarify important details such as internship duration, working hours and entitlements like annual or sick leave. Advocating for yourself professionally shows confidence and respect (which are two qualities that stand out to employers!).

How to Succeed in a Fashion Industry Internship

So, now you’ve landed your first fashion internship. The next step is thriving in your role and successfully launching your fashion career. Your success during a fashion internship can depend as much on your attitude and initiative as it does on your skills.

Before your first day, organize your essentials, plan your commute and prepare your outfit. “If you’re unsure of the dress code,” says Ling, “you can never go wrong with a classic black and white outfit. It’s simple, professional and easy to style.” Odeyemi agrees: “Getting organized the night before helps you start the day feeling calm and confident.”

Once you start your internship, be as observant as possible and eager to help. “Always give your best effort, even on simple tasks like compiling social media clippings,” Ling says. “If you finish early, ask, ‘How can I help?’”

“When the time feels right, don’t hesitate to suggest a change or initiative that could create a lasting impact. During my first internship, I suggested a new workflow using Figma that streamlined the team’s design process.”

Building Relationships and Leaving a Lasting Impression

The relationships that you build during your internship can shape your future career. You never know who might end up becoming your mentor or referring you to their company.

“Stay open-minded, curious and receptive,” says Odeyemi. “Ask questions when you’re unsure but also show initiative. Being someone the team can rely on—and who brings good energy—always makes a positive impression.”

Show appreciation for feedback from your colleagues and mentors and take every opportunity to learn from those around you. These things won’t go unnoticed, and a reputation for enthusiasm and reliability can follow you long after your internship ends.

Turning Your Internship into a Career Launchpad

For many professionals, internships mark the true beginning of their fashion careers. They’re where you build confidence, develop practical skills and discover what kind of roles inspire you most.

“I wish I’d known that it’s not just about the technical skills you bring, but also about your curiosity, attitude and willingness to learn,” says Odeyemi. “At the start, I put a lot of pressure on myself to be ‘perfect’, but internships are designed to help you grow. Companies don’t expect you to know everything. They want to see your curiosity and potential.”

Reflect on what you’ve learned each week and document your accomplishments to track your progression during this critical point in your career journey. Once your internship ends, make an effort to stay connected with your mentors and colleagues, as those relationships often lead to future collaborations or job opportunities.

Don’t view your internship as just a temporary position, but as your first investment in your fashion career and professional journey.

Key Takeaways from Our Fashion Industry Internship Guide

The most successful fashion interns share a few common traits: curiosity, preparation, persistence and enthusiasm.

• Tailor everything — from your application to your interview answers.
• Network intentionally — connect through your professors and industry events.
• Stay curious — every task is an opportunity to learn.
• Ask questions — confidence and curiosity make lasting impressions.
• Bring positive energy — reliability, enthusiasm and a growth mindset stand out.

Ready to Begin Your Fashion Journey?

Advance your fashion career with programs at Vogue College of Fashion.