What career is good for me?

[Lyanna2006]

<FONT color=#000099>I am 16 years old and I am confused on the type of career I would like to pursue. I want to definitely work in the fashion industry. I would like to be a Fashion Coordinator, however I am very creative and would enjoy a job that entails advertising. What should I do?</FONT>

[Hgrove]

I don't know what a fashion co-ordinator does but have you considered becoming a fashion buyer for a department store or chain?  Many years ago I worked for a fashion manufacturer and came into contact with the buyers.  It can be quite good fun - the manufacterers woo you and you get to look at lots of fashion and decide what your store will stock.  On the other hand, you have a big responsibility on your hands.  You have a budget on which you have to achieve a percentage of profits so you must choose wisely what will sell well.  The step "below" buyer is merchandiser, who works closely with the buyer and tells the buyer (for ex.) how many you need to stock per branch.  So you need to be reasonably numerate.  If I had my time again I would try to get into magazines but it can be cut throat and not a lot of job security.  For ex. a stylist is someone who works with the photographer on fashions shoots and has to have an eye for what clothes/accessories/ makeup will make a good photo.  It may involve travelling which sounds exciting but is not all it's cracked up to be!  I think it is very difficult, without contacts, to get the big jobs like fashion director (with your name on the inside cover)!  If you are near London, I think there is the London College of Fashion (or similar name) near Oxford Circus.