The fashion world: advice from an industry veteran
Nancy Steeman gives a revealing talk at the Amsterdam Fashion Institute to students looking for careers into the fashion scene.
Earlier this month, Oxford Brookes offered its Media, Journalism & Publishing students the opportunity to join Dutch students at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences for four days of guest speakers, workshops, and networking.
I was lucky enough to be one of the students on the trip; an opportunity which is now allowing me to share Nancy Steeman’s (one of the guest speakers) advice on how to step into the fashion industry.
Nancy is a freelance stylist and fashion coordinator for Vogue NL with more than a decade of experience in the industry. She is also the founder and creator of Wild Monarchy, a brand that champions women and empowers them to feel worthy.
With Paris Fashion Week coming to a close on Tuesday, which finalises the ‘Big Four’ Fall/Winter 2026 collections, now is an ideal time to discuss how to prepare for stepping into this vast industry.
Be Respectful and Friendly
Basic manners and a simple smile can get you very far. And make small talk. People are more likely to remember you if you show interest in them, not just their position. You never know who you’ll end up working alongside with in the future, so be respectful.
Incorporate your Passions into Work
You’ll be more motivated to work on something you enjoy rather than something you don’t really care about. Take inspiration from your passions and hobbies and bring them into your work. Let the world know what your interests are and create something beautiful out of it.
Be Unique
Bring your own style into your work. Make sure everything you create has personality. No matter what sort of project you are working on – be it something written or tangible – ultimately, you have to see yourself within it; always add a personal touch.
Internships
What better way to understand the industry than to work in it? Take any opportunities available to you. Look up people from the industry, email them, DM them on Instagram, connect with them on LinkedIn; don’t be discouraged by lack of responses. Keep trying until that one person replies. They might be your way in.
Don’t be afraid to try something new. Step out of your comfort zone and be proud of yourself for doing so, no matter what the outcome is.
Ask Questions and Listen to Everyone Around You
The best way to learn is through mistakes. When you are unsure of something, ask!
Once you get that internship opportunity, take advantage of it. Listen to what is going on around you, learn from others, absorb the skills of those around you by watching and listening.
Don’t just show up to an experience for the sake of it. Make the most of it. Volunteer for any task available, ask questions, make those mistakes to learn from them.