How to break into fashion: Real advice from someone who’s walked in your shoes
From student to fashion designer—get the inside scoop and career advice from someone who’s been where you are and survived the same dramas
In today’s job market, where landing a satisfying job can feel like a job in itself, it’s completely normal to daydream about the future. Those career “what ifs” have a way of creeping into your daily routine, whether you’re deep into your favourite subject or sneaking a break from the one you dread. You know that song, “When I grow up, I wanna be famous. I wanna be a star, I wanna be in movies?” If you are really into the Y2K trend, you definitely know the one. Maybe we’re not all chasing that kind of fame, but we’re definitely dreaming of carving out a promising spot in the working world.
Good news: a recent survey hints at a positive trend for Istituto Marangoni graduates. Teaming up with Doxa, a leading research firm, the survey takes a close look at how alumni fare in the job market after their time at the school, offering some insights into what an Istituto Marangoni education really brings to the table.
This year’s results show that the overall employability rate for graduates has ticked up to 91%.
The London school has seen a solid jump, with employability rising to 96%—an 11% bump from last year, even outpacing some local competitors.
Milan is holding its own, too. Just ask Virginia Botto Poala, a former student who, after her BA in Fashion Design & Accessories, landed a job at Antonio Riva and is now living her creative dream. Her experience demonstrates that graduates aren’t just finding jobs quickly; they’re also securing roles that align well with their studies.
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Virginia is one of many alumni who feel that their time at Istituto Marangoni prepared them well for their careers. The focus on developing key soft skills, building connections with major players in the luxury and fashion industries, and integrating AI, the Metaverse, and digital skills into the curriculum gives students like Virginia a head start in today’s job market.
Want to hear from someone who’s been there, done that, and survived all the twists and turns? We caught up with Virginia Botto Poala to get her inside scoop and some real-world career advice.
What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion?
I was born and raised in Biella, which is known for its prestigious textile industry. My family’s background in textiles sparked my initial interest in the field. This early exposure led me to develop a passion for fashion even before I became a Fashion Design student at Istituto Marangoni Milano. I further pursued my love for fashion by interning in office style at Lafayette 148, a well-known brand in New York. The energy of the big city, combined with that experience, made it clear that the fashion world was where I wanted to be.
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How did you adapt to life in New York?
I adapted well, though I wouldn’t choose to live there long-term because it’s quite different from Italy. The fashion scene in New York also differs significantly from what we have in Italy.
How does fashion in New York differ from Italian fashion?
Italian fashion, like French fashion, feels more intellectual and often draws on art for inspiration. In New York, this artistic approach seems less prominent. Instead, I observed a more minimalistic style compared to the richer, more culture-filled European sensibility.
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Which designers do you admire the most, and who has influenced your style?
I admire John Galliano for his storytelling through fashion during his time at Dior; his collections are always narrative-driven and well-researched. I also look up to Alessandro Michele, who is now debuting at Valentino, for his unique approach that challenges conventional creative ideas. Rick Owens is another designer I find inspiring because of his ability to convey important social messages in a conceptual way.
What challenges did you face during your studies at Istituto Marangoni?
The biggest challenge was finding my own style. I draw inspiration from photographers and contemporary artists, then channel that into my designs using techniques like fabric manipulation and moulage, which is a 3D draping method where the fabric is sculpted directly onto a tailor’s mannequin.
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Where did you work after graduation?
I interned in office style at Antonio Riva, an Italian brand known for its wedding dresses and high-fashion ceremony attire. It was my first experience with a couture-level approach to fashion, and I found it truly enchanting. This opportunity to experiment creatively and work within a smaller fashion company allowed me to learn extensively and gain valuable exposure to various facets of the industry.
Do you think your studies at Istituto Marangoni helped you, and would you change anything if you could go back?
My studies provided a solid foundation and excellent preparation. Compared to my peers from other universities, I felt more prepared for my first job interviews. The comprehensive portfolio I built there made a noticeable difference.
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Have you ever considered starting your own brand?
We’ll see in the long run! To launch your own brand, you need the right skills, experience, investors, and a strong concept. I think those who are overly confident about starting a brand too soon might have a vision that’s a bit too self-centred.
What advice would you give to current students?
Be bold and proactive. Don’t be afraid to ask questions; it’s better to inquire with humility than to regret not asking. Also, consider gaining experience in smaller companies, where you have the opportunity to stand out and showcase your style and personality more freely.
Daniela Martinez and Edoardo Bonesi
Fashion Management, Digital Communication and Media, 2nd year, Milano
A version of this article originally appeared on Dolce Vita Italia, an editorial project created by students from Istituto Marangoni’s Fashion Management, Digital Communication, and Media programme. The project was led by Daniela Martinez as Editor-in-Chief, Chiara Al Sayyad as Fashion Director, Sofia Arango as Art Director, with Edoardo Bonesi and Antonella Alvarado serving as Fashion Editors.