How do I carve a career path that is at the intersection of business, fashion, and technology ?
I am currently an incoming freshman at IU Kelley, taking my greatest interest in management and entrepreneurship and innovation. I have a passion for art and fashion and strive to be in the fashion industry after college but am unsure on how to achieve this. My approach to my career post-grad is uncommon and I want to know what I can do to place myself in business management in the fashion industry. #Spring25
5 answers
Olufemi’s Answer
It’s fantastic that you’re already thinking strategically about your career path at the intersection of business, fashion, and technology! Your passion for art and fashion, combined with your focus on management and entrepreneurship, positions you well to carve out a unique niche in the fashion industry. Here are some steps to help you achieve your goals:
Start by immersing yourself in the fashion industry. Subscribe to fashion magazines, follow industry leaders on social media, and engage with online communities. This will keep you informed about trends, innovations, and key players in the field.
Leverage your time at IU Kelley to take advantage of courses that focus on management, entrepreneurship, and innovation. Seek out electives related to fashion marketing, retail management, and digital commerce. These will provide you with a solid foundation in business while allowing you to apply concepts specifically to the fashion sector.
Consider internships that blend your interests. Look for opportunities at fashion brands that are embracing technology, such as e-commerce platforms, fashion tech startups, or companies focused on sustainable practices. These experiences will give you practical insights into how business and technology intersect in the fashion industry.
Network actively. Attend fashion events, industry conferences, and entrepreneurship meetups. Connect with professionals who work at the crossroads of fashion and technology. Building relationships can open doors and provide valuable mentorship opportunities.
Engage in projects that showcase your skills. Consider starting a blog or a social media account focused on fashion and technology trends. You could also collaborate with classmates on projects that explore innovative business ideas in fashion. This not only builds your portfolio but also demonstrates your initiative and creativity.
Stay adaptable and open to learning. The fashion industry is constantly evolving, especially with technological advancements. Be willing to explore new tools, platforms, and ideas that can enhance your understanding of how to drive innovation in the industry.
Finally, consider further education or certifications in areas like digital marketing, data analytics, or fashion technology. These skills will make you more competitive and better equipped to navigate the ever-changing landscape of fashion business.
By strategically combining your interests in business, fashion, and technology, you can carve out a distinctive career path that allows you to innovate and thrive in the fashion industry. Stay focused on your goals, and remember that your unique perspective can lead to exciting opportunities!
Charlie’s Answer
I love this vision! it's bold, creative, and super forward-thinking. You're in such a good spot to start shaping this kind of career early. The intersection of business, fashion, and technology is exactly where the future of the industry is heading.
1. Start Building Your Brand Early. The fashion industry loves a unique point of view. Create a personal brand around your interest in fashion-tech-business. Start a blog, TikTok, or LinkedIn series talking about fashion innovation, sustainability, business trends in fashion, or tech in retail. Document your journey, people love following ambitious students with a vision.
2. Tailor Your Kelley Experience Toward Fashion-Tech
3. Gain Experience in Fashion & Tech Simultaneously. Intern Smart: Look for fashion e-commerce, retail tech startups, or corporate innovation roles. Even roles like product management, supply chain innovation, or digital marketing at big retailers give you a foot in both worlds.
4. Network Into the Industry. Join fashion clubs or business orgs on campus. Attend fashion tech conferences.
5. Stay Ahead of Trends
Here are some career paths you could end up in with your interests:
• Director of Strategy for a luxury fashion house
• Founder of a fashion-tech startup
• Product Manager at a fashion e-commerce platform
• Brand Innovation Manager at Nike, Adidas, or LVMH
• Consulting for retail innovation
I am not an expert in the fashion field, so I did a little research for you, now it’s your turn…research and make a plan!
Good Luck,
Charlie
Dr. Rita’s Answer
Hope this helps.
rita
Radhika’s Answer
That’s a fantastic and growing space—especially with trends like fashion tech, sustainable fashion, and e-commerce. Since you’re at IU Kelley and interested in management and entrepreneurship, you’re well-placed.
Career Paths at the Intersection:
• Fashion Tech Product Manager
• E-commerce Strategist
• Digital Fashion Marketer
• Sustainable Fashion Consultant
• Fashion Data Analyst
What You Can Do Now:
1. Double major or minor in fashion design, fashion tech, or digital media if possible.
2. Join student clubs around entrepreneurship, fashion, or tech.
3. Intern in fashion startups, e-commerce companies, or fashion brands using tech (like virtual try-ons, AI styling).
4. Start your own brand or blog—showcase your understanding of fashion & business.
5. Stay updated with tech trends in fashion: AR/VR for virtual try-ons, AI styling, sustainability tracking tools, etc.
Your unique combination of interests is your superpower—own it, and keep experimenting to find what excites you most!
Rashmi’s Answer
Rashmi recommends the following next steps: