If someone wants a career in fashion journalism then it is because they love to write, so whilst producing the articles may not be too much trouble, getting them published can be a whole different matter.
In addition to a killer CV, you will need to compile a portfolio of work that will wow future employers, so that means getting your work published (See Resources).
Practice, Practice, Practice
Before you take a shot at getting something into one of the big fashion magazines, you will need to hone both your journalistic technique and your opinions about fashion - that means coming up with original ideas for articles that people want to read, doing your research and then writing the article.
Many fashion journalists develop a unique perspective on fashion or focus in on a particular aspect of fashion (for example, fashion history) and forge a career and name for themselves as experts in that field. Others are more general in their approach and interests - the important thing is that you have a real passion for what you are writing about.
The best advice then is to gain as much exposure to fashion in all its guises (see Work Experience and Networking) and then to write, write, write.
Do not underestimate the importance of practice - when you are submitting work for real, you want it to be the very best that you can produce and practice makes perfect.
Where to start?
The internet provides the perfect arena for you to get this initial writing experience and you will also start to build an online profile of yourself as a fashion journalist. To start with, you may like to submit your work to a free online article directory or perhaps set up your own blog.
Once you have become more comfortable and confident in your writing and your opinions, approach your local newspaper, magazine or if you are a student, your university or college newspaper and ask if you can submit some work, ideally fashion related, for publication. If they ask you to write something else, on a topic unrelated to fashion (such as a restaurant review, for example), don't turn it down just because it isn't 'fashion' - remember, first get your foot through the door. It's much easier to move sideways once you are in.
Fashion Magazines
Your next step is to approach real fashion magazines and the fashion departments of newspapers with your ideas. It is probably best to start of with smaller publications, such as online fashion magazines or specialist titles, and build up a body of published work before knocking on the door of Condé Nast.
Remember that these magazines and newspapers receive literally hundreds of ideas for articles every week, so be patient and persevere - your work will get published. Most magazine and newspaper editors prefer to be approached with ideas in writing first (rather than sending off a completed article), along with your CV and examples of your previous work.
Writer's Markets
Another way to find work is to register with a writer's market. Just like a real marketplace, editors post their requirements for articles and invite writers to get in touch. (See Resources)
Freelancer or Staff Writer?
What's the difference between a staff fashion writer and a freelance fashion writer? A staff fashion writer is a full time employee of the magazine, whilst a freelance writer is hired on a project by project basis. Most modern magazines operate with only a skeleton staff, with most of their work being commissioned to freelance writers and editors.
How much will I get paid?
The all important question! Freelance fashion journalists are typically paid between £300 and £600 per piece whilst staff fashion writers earn between £10,000 and £35,000 a year depending upon experience and seniority. A senior fashion editor could earn from between £30,000 a year to over £50,000.
If you want a career in fashion journalism, then the ultimate answer is 'yes' - you will need to have an income to survive.
But if you are just beginning your career as a fashion journalist then don't overlook publications which don't offer payment for your work. Not only will you be gaining valuable experience and feedback from real editors about your work, as well as that all important cutting for your portfolio, but many of these publications have a wide readership among the fashion industry and any exposure of your name and your work will be of benefit to your career.