Fashion ----> Finance (Yep I know)

Let me make this short and simple.

Background:

I went to one of fashion school ivy leagues (FIT) and finished undergrad with a degree in Fashion Merchandising. I wanted to be a planner.

Fashion Merchandising: Business degree with a focus on consumer retail Planner: The fashion world term for "analyst"

Change:

It was when I turned 21 that I learned in NYC you have two dating options: Bankers or you are doomed to Brooklyn hipsters. Anyway, last summer I was dragged around to soo many networking events (you all have heard of the fashion/finance thing right? Similar industries, VERY different compensation) with analysts at all the bigger firms and at different levels of experience.

And then I realized I actually wasn't interested in them (okay like maybe 2) it was the work. I know, especially for an FIT girl, its kinda unusual.

Now:

I am temping as reception/ admin at various PE/hedgefunds. Bored out of my mind. It took 4 years of fashion school to learn I want to be a retail investment analyst (my professional background). I have a lot of f***ing work to do. A LOT.

(and not even thinking of the glass ceiling .......yet)

15 Comments
 

I haven't heard of the fashion/finance thing. And I also don't know how they're similar industries, I'm curious as to what your response is. I interned for a fashion brand once, and it was nothing like finance. Also, by retail investment analyst--I assume you mean a research analyst covering consumer retail names? If so, studying for the CFA is one way to start.

 

You know I have faced like this once when I graduated and was seeking for jobs. Well best of luck on your path, you've reached lot closer

 
Best Response

lol, I just don't know what to say. This is a brilliant troll post. "Fashion ivy league" has basically made my day. Possibly, my life.

On the 0.0000000001 % probability that this is not a troll post, I'd say do a CFA and take some finance classes in con't ed NYU or smtn. You'll get some job in finance. Work for 2 years then MBA would be your best bet.

 

I am in junior resources, so pretty far from the world of high fashion and everything nice. However, my wife and her sister are pretty artsy, my sis-in-law being the lead fashion designer, women's apparel, for a fairly large company. I am fairly exposed to this fashion stuff on a daily basis and find myself looking at some of these companies just for fun.

In my limited research, there are shops and analyst that specialize in this sector. I think its very interesting in that the numbers have to make sense, but the analyst also has to predict that upcoming lines will also generate profits and garner interest.

Jennifer Black & Associates does just that, maybe send her a quick note and get some advice?

Side note: I would rather get my information from a younger analyst that understands the sector than some 60 year old grandpa.

Good luck!

 

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