From her initial interest in communication to her path into the editorial world, Kyara Cortés has built a profile that combines aesthetic sensitivity with a clear vocation for fashion. Her time in the Vogue Master’s in Fashion Image: Styling and Creative Direction at Vogue College of Fashion allowed her to gain an in-depth understanding of visual language and explore the different areas that shape the industry.
As part of this journey, she developed her experience at Vanity Fair Spain, where she was able to integrate into the workings of a newsroom and take part directly in content creation within a leading editorial environment.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background
I studied a degree in Communication at Universidad Anáhuac México. For many years, I knew I wanted to work in fashion, although at first I wasn’t entirely sure how. My studies allowed me to explore different paths within communication and realise that I was especially interested in the way fashion uses imagery to tell stories and connect with people.
Later on, I decided to specialise with the Vogue Master’s in Fashion Image: Styling and Creative Direction. This stage helped me discover the industry from within and develop a more comprehensive perspective on styling, creative direction, and the editorial world. During the programme, I also had the opportunity to work on practical projects and gain insight into different ways of understanding fashion.
How did you discover us?
After finishing my degree, I began exploring different options to specialise in fashion. I came across Vogue College while comparing programmes, and its master’s stood out the most to me—not only for its content and practical approach, but also for the opportunity to learn from professionals directly connected to the industry.
Why did you decide to study this master’s?
Although I studied Communication, I always knew I wanted to orient my career towards fashion. For a long time, I didn’t know exactly which path to follow or from which area I could enter the industry, but I was certain I wanted to be part of it.
When I discovered the Vogue College Master’s, I felt it was the opportunity I had been looking for to specialise, better understand how the sector works, and learn directly from active professionals.
What was your experience like during the course?
My experience during the course was very enriching. I enjoyed being able to explore fashion from very different perspectives, from styling and creative direction to communication and the editorial field. This allowed me to better understand all the work behind each project and discover new areas of interest.
I also greatly value learning from professionals who shared with us not only their knowledge, but also their experience and a very realistic view of the sector.
It was a period of significant growth, both personally and professionally, which broadened my understanding of fashion and confirmed that I want to continue building my career in this world.
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Which professor or session would you highlight? Why?
It’s very difficult to single out just one professor, as I believe each of them contributed different insights and ways of understanding the industry. I would especially highlight Debbie Smith’s session, as it was deeply inspiring. Beyond sharing her professional experience, she conveyed a sensitive and honest way of understanding fashion, image, and the creative process. I left her class with many ideas and a broader perspective on editorial fashion.
I was also particularly struck by Guillermo Balmori’s class, where we learned about the history of fashion in film. It was a very valuable session because it showed us how costume not only accompanies characters, but also builds the identity and narrative of a film.
What did you enjoy most or remember most fondly?
What I remember most fondly are all the experiences beyond the classroom. I always tried to make the most of every visit, activity, and opportunity the master’s offered, because that is often where you truly understand how the industry works.
I also really enjoyed the workshops, as they allowed us to experiment in a more hands-on way and step into the roles of creative directors and stylists in our day-to-day work.
The trips to New York and Paris were undoubtedly two of the most special moments. Thanks to Vogue College, we were able to access companies, spaces, and professionals that would otherwise have been very difficult to reach. Seeing first-hand how some of the industry’s leading brands and figures work was incredibly inspiring and helped broaden my perspective on the fashion world.
What was your experience with your internships like? Where did you complete them?
I am currently undertaking my internship in the Social Media department at Vanity Fair. I began with a curricular internship and, after that initial stage, I was offered the opportunity to continue with an extracurricular placement, so I will remain part of the team for the coming months.
Every day, I learn from the talent, judgement, and experience of the Vanity team, who have become true mentors and have allowed me to gain first-hand insight into how an editorial team operates.
What do you think is the most important thing you’ve learned for your current role?
My experience at Vanity Fair has taught me that every publication has an intention behind it, and that working in this sector requires being able to do a bit of everything.
In just a few months, I’ve had the opportunity to experience incredible moments, such as attending the red carpet for the launch of Bad Gyal’s new album or the Netflix premiere of Rafa Nadal’s documentary. At both events, I was able to film interviews with invited celebrities, which allowed me to explore another side of editorial work.
I have also come to understand the importance of preserving the value of editorials, especially at a time when this format seems to be losing ground. For me, they remain essential because they allow us to tell stories and approach fashion from a more creative, cultural, and reflective perspective—something we must keep alive.
Additionally, I’ve learned that education is only one part of the journey. In this industry, initiative, perseverance, a willingness to keep learning, and the ability to adapt to each challenge are equally important. Opportunities are built over time through consistent work, passion, and creativity.
Any final comments or advice for someone starting out in this sector?
My advice to anyone starting out is to stay true to their style and their way of understanding fashion. There isn’t one single correct vision—only people with passion who dare to try.
I also believe it is essential to be kind, respectful, and to nurture professional relationships. The fashion world is smaller than it seems, and you never know when you will cross paths with someone again, collaborate, or need their support. Talent is important, but attitude opens many doors too.
Shape your perspective within the fashion industry
Train in styling and creative direction with active industry professionals and develop your own approach within the editorial landscape.
