In 2026, creating a standout fashion résumé involves strategic presentation and authenticity in a crowded job market influenced by AI.
Adapting to the Competitive Landscape
The rise of AI tools has made résumé creation more accessible, but also increased competition. Marisa LoBianco from Pratt Institute notes, "A résumé is not meant to be comprehensive, it’s only meant to be a snapshot of your skills." Carla Carstens, a fashion career coach, warns against vague "horoscope résumés," urging specificity rather than general statements like "results-driven professional."
Applicants should avoid phrases like "involved in" or "part of a team that," which lack clarity. Instead, use direct examples such as "Coordinated sample trafficking for FW24 press day," to demonstrate understanding and involvement.
Leveraging Education and Personal Projects
Millie de la Valette of Louis Vuitton emphasizes the importance of portfolios over work experience for new graduates. Coursework, personal projects, and design process presentations are critical. Baron Osuna from LVMH advises candidates to include personal elements and creative processes in portfolios, beyond just polished images.
Jennifer MacDonald from The New School encourages students to highlight coursework and capstone projects. Mallory Brendel of Diane von Furstenberg points out that unrelated jobs can also demonstrate valuable skills like time management and teamwork.
Honesty and Networking Strategies
Transparency is crucial, as highlighted by de la Valette and Osuna. Misrepresenting responsibilities can damage credibility. Siena Craigie's approach, reaching out to small brands via social media and securing a role through personalized applications, illustrates proactive networking. This strategy landed her a position at a fashion PR firm and eventually with Sally Singer.
The Role of AI in Résumé Development
LoBianco suggests using generative AI to refine résumés by aligning them with specific job descriptions and creating skill-oriented bullet points. However, the process should start and end with human judgment.
Ultimately, the industry's standouts are those who remain authentic. "The young people in the industry who stand out to me are the individuals who are unapologetically themselves," says Craigie. A résumé should reflect this, serving as a concise representation of one's skills and individuality.
Source: https://www.vogue.com/article/how-to-write-a-fashion-resume
