Author: Michelle Ashton

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Science and Cosmetics

Research and Formulation

Research and formulation is a lab-based department, working with raw materials. They prepare samples, keep accurate records of batch trials and make formulas to specification. This department also handles colour matching, sensory testing and stability of products.

Different labs may look at different types of products, e.g. powder, skincare or lipstick. Careers in research and formulation can lead to Senior Development Chemist roles.

Examples of roles within Research and Formulation:
  • Formulation Development Assistant
  • Chemist
  • Lab Technician
  • Research and Development Technician
Alchemical Mycology, Jesse Adler, 2022 MA Material Futures, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Tom Manion and Chris Ould
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Research and Formulation:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Cosmetic Science equipment, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ana Blumenkron
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Communications and Marketing Media, Publishing and Digital

Journalism

Fashion journalism is a fast-paced and creative field focused on researching, writing, and producing content about the fashion industry across platforms like magazines, websites, blogs, podcasts, and TV. Fashion journalists report on trends, designers, events, and industry news. Their daily tasks may include interviewing sources, writing articles, attending fashion shows, and pitching story ideas to editors.

With digital platforms growing rapidly, fashion journalists increasingly produce online content alongside traditional print. Success in this field requires strong writing and communication skills, curiosity, attention to detail, and a good understanding of fashion culture and trends. Many fashion journalists develop a specialty area, such as sustainability, streetwear, or luxury fashion, allowing them to build expertise and a unique voice within the industry.

If you stayed within this career you could become a Production Editor or Editor-in-Chief of a publication. Alternatively, you could move into Freelance or Consultancy work.

Examples of Roles within Journalism:
  • Special Projects Editor
  • Fashion Journalist
  • Editorial Assistant
  • Editor
  • Content Creator
  • PR Professional
  • Social Fashion Writer
  • Blogger (Video/written)
  • Feature Columnist
  • Broadcast/Print Journalist
Kevin Quinn, 2021 PhD student, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Journalism:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Creative thinking behind Babett Kurschner’s work | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Communications and Marketing

Marketing

Marketing focuses on connecting brands with their target audiences to drive awareness, shape brand identity, and increase sales. Marketers promote products, collections, or entire brands using various channels like social media, digital ads, events, and magazines. They work closely with departments like design, merchandising, and PR to ensure consistent messaging and strong visual identity. Marketing roles can involve campaign development, trend analysis, content planning, and customer relationship management, making them essential to how a brand is perceived.

As the industry shifts toward digital and omnichannel strategies, there’s growing demand for marketers skilled in ecommerce, social media, UX/UI, and customer engagement. Roles can range from Social Media Assistant to Digital Marketing Manager or Head of Marketing, with key tools including Google Analytics, Shopify, and CRM systems. Entry-level roles offer hands-on experience in trend-driven content creation, campaign execution, and audience engagement, ideal for creative, analytical thinkers who want to influence how fashion brands connect with the world.

Campaign Marketing:

Campaign marketers create marketing messages and promotional activities to endorse brand values. These build integrated marketing communications, promoting a brand’s product or service. Campaign marketing is the main method for communicating product information with target markets. They use high level digital communication skills to create campaigns across ecommerce, social media and web. Campaign Marketers can progress to Head of Marketing or Consultancy.

Affiliate Marketing:

Affiliate marketers earn a commission by promoting other people’s, or companies’, products. They refer new business to a merchant’s website, broadening a company’s customer base. Affiliate marketing is performance-based, with affiliates only getting paid when their promotions result in a transaction. There are two levels you can work with in affiliate marketing, for the brand or as a ‘Publisher’. Brand employees can progress to Accounts or Performance Director, Publishers can become Influencers.

Examples of roles within marketing:
  • Fashion Marketer
  • Digital Marketing Specialist
  • Retail Marketer
  • CRM Campaign Assistant
  • Associate/Executive Publisher
  • Creative Strategist
  • Market Researcher
  • Multi-Channel Production Assistant
  • Affiliates Account Assistant
  • Display Assistant
  • Performance Marketing Assistant
Lauri Sallantaus, 2021 MA Strategic Fashion Marketing, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in marketing:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Maria Ardila, 2021 MA Fashion Entrepreneurship and Innovation, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Media, Publishing and Digital Theatre, Performance and Screen

Videography

Fashion videography is a highly creative and technical field where moving images are used to bring clothing, accessories, and brand stories to life. Videographers collaborate closely with designers, stylists, and models to develop visual concepts, film on location or in studios, and produce compelling content for campaigns, lookbooks, social media, fashion documentaries and runway shows.

They capture not just garments in motion but also the atmosphere, emotion, and inspiration behind each collection. Roles require skills in filming, directing, and editing, and can range from freelance projects to in-house positions for major fashion brands or production companies.

A career in fashion videography typically begins with assisting roles or internships in production, gradually moving up to videographer, creative director, or producer. Professionals in this area must be confident storytellers, technically skilled in camera operation and editing software, and comfortable managing multiple aspects of a shoot, from storyboarding to post-production. Adaptability, collaboration, and innovation are key, as videographers are expected to respond to evolving trends, technologies, and client needs while crafting content that is both visually captivating and aligned with a brand’s identity.

exmaples of roles within Videography:
  • Videographer
  • Post-production Runner/Assistant/Supervisor
  • Production Runner/Assistant/Supervisor
  • Colourist
  • Editor
  • Camera Technician
  • Shoot Intern
Henrik Bie shooting in the Studio, Case Study
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Videography:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

LCC Shows 2024: Screen – Private View, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Mitsi Moulson
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Media, Publishing and Digital Styling, Make-up and Production

Photography

Working in photography is dynamic, capturing visual stories that bring clothing, accessories, and brands to life. Whether shooting editorial spreads, product images for websites, or advertising campaigns, fashion photographers use lighting, styling, and composition to present garments in their best light. Their work may take place in studios or on location, often involving collaboration with designers, stylists, models, and art directors.

Success in this field requires both technical skill and artistic vision. Photographers are expected to understand camera operations, lighting techniques, photo editing software, and visual storytelling. A career in fashion photography also involves managing the post-production process and working under tight deadlines, making adaptability, communication, and attention to detail essential skills. Many fashion photographers are freelance, though in-house roles exist within larger companies, especially in e-commerce and publishing. Over time, photographers can progress to roles like creative director, producer, or establish their own studios.

examples of roles within photography:
  • Photographer
  • Studio Assistant
  • Production Assistant
  • Photo Retoucher
  • Photography Assistant
  • Shoot Intern
  • Post-production coordinator
  • Digital Imaging Technician
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in photography:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Issac Carter Ellison using the photography studio, 2023 Level 3 International: Introduction to the Study of Fashion, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson,
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Business and Management Culture, Community and Heritage

Learning Engagement and Development

Learning, Engagement and Development roles focus on helping individuals and teams grow through training, education, and creative programming. In the fashion and creative industries, this can involve designing and delivering workshops, mentoring schemes, and staff development programmes to ensure people have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed. Professionals in this area may also create learning resources, coordinate training sessions, and support ongoing staff development using both digital tools and in-person activities.

Roles in this field often include assisting with planning and running educational events or programmes, especially for young people, families, or staff within organisations. As you progress, you could move into leadership positions such as Learning Development Manager or Head of Learning.

Examples of roles within Learning Engagement and development:
  • Junior Instructional Designer
  • Training Coordinator
  • Learning and Development Assistant
  • Digital Learning Designer
  • Engagement Assistant
  • Learning and Engagement Coordinator
  • Learning Specialist
  • Learning Coordinator
LCC Shows 2024: Media– Private View, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Paul Perelka
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in business development:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Chelsea, February 2017, UAL, Anna-Maria Pellegrini in the Studio
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Culture, Community and Heritage Science and Cosmetics

Identity, Health and Wellbeing

The identity and wellbeing field in the creative industries focuses on improving mental, emotional, and physical health through arts and cultural activities. This area promotes collaboration between health services and creative practitioners, supporting community wellbeing through workshops, creative events, and social engagement projects. Organisations in this field aim to reconnect individuals with creativity, nature, and each other, often working with vulnerable or isolated groups to enhance their quality of life.

Entry-level roles in this area can begin in social media, content creation, community support, and even HR, all of which use creative skills to promote positive health messages and build supportive communities. These roles often involve creating digital content, managing engagement campaigns, and planning events to raise awareness and encourage participation. A passion for creativity and helping others is essential for a career in this rewarding and growing sector.

Examples of roles within identity, health and wellbeing:
  • Wellbeing Lead/Coordinator/Practitioner
  • Employee Health and Wellbeing Advisor
  • Coaches
  • Artist Supervisor
  • Public Relations and Communications Assistant
  • Artist
  • Bid Writer
  • Theatre Practitioner
  • Participation Producer
  • Creative Producer/Facilitator
  • Experience Officer
  • Researcher
  • Exhibitions Assistant
  • Community and Outreach Coordinator
  • Communities Fund Programme Assistant
Colourful letters by Mo Zhou, Graduate showcase
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in identity, health and wellbeing:
  • All LCF Courses could lead to a career in identity, health and wellbeing.

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Pride in London 2024, UAL | Photograph: Orlando Callegaro
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Business and Management

Human Resources

Working in Human Resources (HR) in the creative industries means supporting the people who make a business thrive. HR professionals manage recruitment, staff development, and workplace policies, ensuring that employees feel supported, valued, and motivated. They help attract and retain talent, design fair and flexible working arrangements, and make sure the company complies with employment laws. Strong communication, empathy, and problem-solving skills are key in this field.

HR roles can include recruitment, employee relations, training and development, and performance management. Whether advising on career progression, handling grievances, or helping create a positive work culture, HR professionals play a vital role in shaping the employee experience. With time and experience, this career path can lead to leadership roles such as Head of HR or Talent Manager, offering opportunities to influence company culture and strategy at the highest level.

Recruitment:

Recruiters play a key role in identifying the right candidates to match a brand’s culture and skill needs, often using interviews, job boards, and networking to source talent. Recruitment Teams can be based in-house for a brand or externally within an agency. Working in recruitment can lead to Head of Talent roles or owning your own recruitment agency.

Employee Relations:

Employee relations roles are advisory and coaching-focused. Employee relations professionals also play a vital role in promoting a respectful and inclusive workplace by addressing concerns early and constructively. They support managers in handling sensitive situations and ensure that all actions align with company values and employment laws. Employee relations offers a broad overview of a HR department opening progression to Regional HR Manager or Head of HR.

Examples of roles within Human Resources:
  • HR Liaison
  • HR Business Partner
  • HR People Advisor
  • Talent Acquisition Officer
  • Talent Specialist
  • Employee Relations Lead
  • Employee Relations Officer
  • Exhibitor Relations Manager
  • People and Culture Officer
Chelsea, February 2017, UAL
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Human Resources:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Creative Processes with Adrienne Bennie, PhD Research Student
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Design and Craft

Jewellery and Accessories Design

Jewellery and Accessories Design is a creative and technical field, designing items like handbags, eyewear, jewellery, and hair accessories. Designers work with different materials and production techniques to create pieces that balance function, style, and market appeal. These roles often begin with conceptual sketches and trend research, followed by technical drawings and prototypes. Depending on the project, designers may use traditional craftsmanship or digital tools such as CAD software, while also collaborating closely with manufacturers to ensure quality and consistency.

Careers in this field can be diverse, offering paths in both luxury and commercial markets. Entry-level roles like design assistants can lead to senior design positions, head of department roles, or launching an independent brand. This sector values a strong creative identity, technical skill, and a clear understanding of fashion trends and sustainability. Whether creating bespoke jewellery or mass-market accessories, designers must also develop business awareness, communication skills, and the ability to tell compelling stories through their designs.

examples of roles within Jewellery and Accessories Design:
  • Leather Goods Designer
  • Material and Fabrication Specialist
  • Junior/Assistant Accessories Designer
  • Junior/Assistant Jewellery Designer
  • Technical Accessories Designer
  • Digital Prototyping and CAD Specialist
  • Trend and Innovation Consultant
  • Technical Designer
Mia Vilcins, 2022 BA (Hons) Fashion Jewellery, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Jewellery and Accessories Design:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Rana Aydin, 2024 BA (Hons) Design for Creative Direction, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
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Styling, Make-up and Production Theatre, Performance and Screen

Hair and Make-up Artistry

Hair and Make-Up Artistry is responsible for shaping the visual identity of models, performers, and characters across photoshoots, runway shows, film, TV, and live performances. Artists in this field create hairstyles and make-up looks that align with the creative vision of a production or brand. This can include everyday beauty, high fashion, period looks, or dramatic transformations using wigs, prosthetics, and special effects. Their role involves researching styles, applying and maintaining consistent looks, and working collaboratively with designers, photographers, and directors.

Many roles in this field are freelance, requiring strong communication, time management, and adaptability. Beginners often start as assistants or trainees, learning from experienced artists and handling practical tasks such as prepping kits, maintaining hygiene, and assisting with continuity. As they gain experience, they may move into senior artist or designer roles, responsible for leading the creative vision, managing teams, and coordinating with other departments.

examples of roles within Hair and Make-up Artistry:
  • Assistant Make-up and Effects Artist
  • Runway Makeup Artist
  • Editorial Makeup Artist
  • Chief Hairdresser
  • Hair and/or Make-up Artist
  • Processing & Curations Assistant
  • Trainee Make-up Artist
  • Editorial/Fashion Hairdresser
  • Wig and Hair Technician
Make-up Session with Kiera Young, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson,
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Hair and Make-up Artistry:

This list is not exhaustive. It is only an indication of directly connected LCF Courses.

Students in Make-up Studio at East Bank, 2024, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ana Blumenkron
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