Hi everyone,
I’m in my early 20s and graduated in 2024 with a degree in fashion business from Paris. I’m currently working in luxury jewellery in Mumbai.
During and after my degree, I’ve had experience across:
- Internships and some full-time roles with fashion brands (CRM/Digital Marketing/Sales/Product Development)
- Working during fashion weeks
- Brief even manager role in Milan
- Also speak French
Right now, I feel a bit stuck and unsure about how to move forward in a more global, fashion-focused direction.
I have three main questions:
1. What roles should I be targeting if I want to be involved in both creative direction and strategy long-term?
Long-term, I want to contribute to both the creative side (products, campaigns, shows) and the strategic side (brand direction, positioning). I’m especially interested in brand storytelling, events, and product direction.
I understand that early in my career I’ll need to be hands-on, but I’d like to know what roles today can realistically lead to that kind of position.
Would paths like brand/marketing, merchandising, PR/events, or creative production be more aligned than others?
2. How do I realistically break into international fashion markets without strong connections?
I’m currently based in Mumbai and finding it challenging to move into European or other global fashion markets. A lot of opportunities seem network-driven, and cold applications haven’t been very effective.
I’m open to relocating, but I’m trying to understand the most practical way in.
What strategies actually work when you don’t have strong referral pipelines yet?
I do have a network in the sense that I’ve met people through university, internships, and work—but I haven’t been able to convert those connections into concrete opportunities yet
3. Should I pursue a master’s in Europe or focus on getting back in through work experience first?
Although I studied in Paris, I had to leave for personal reasons, but I want to go back or relocate
I’m deciding between:
-Doing a master’s to re-enter the market and build connections
-Focusing on landing a job directly
-Exploring other fashion hubs
What tends to be the better move in the long run?
A bit more context:
I’m very open to starting from the bottom again
I’m used to long hours and demanding schedules
I’m willing to relocate if needed
I’m not looking for shortcuts—just realistic advice
Would really appreciate any honest or practical insights, especially from people working in global fashion markets.
Thanks in advance!