Author: Michelle Ashton

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Garments, Textiles and Materials Development

Materials and Product Technology

Materials and Product Technologists focus on the development, testing, and selection of textiles used in garments and other products. Professionals in this area work with both natural and synthetic fibres to evaluate qualities like durability, stretch, colour fastness, and water resistance. They advise on suitable materials for specific designs, develop innovative new fabrics, and ensure garments meet performance, sustainability, and cost standards. Increasingly, this field also includes circular design and textile recycling, as sustainability is central to industry practices.

Roles in this field require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and technical knowledge of fabrics, fibres, and production methods. Technologists often collaborate closely with designers, pattern cutters, and manufacturers, acting as a key link between concept and production. Following this career path could lead to roles like Senior Textile Technologist or Material Innovator.

examples of roles within Materials and Product Technology:
  • Fabric/Textile/Clothing Technologist
  • Pattern Technologist
  • Sourcing Assistant
  • Dye Technologist
  • Garment Technologist
  • Creative Pattern Cutter
  • Digital Pattern Cutter
  • Product Developer
  • Colour Technician
  • Textile Recycling Operations Manager
  • Circular Design Expert
  • Textile Operative
Sydney Carty, 2023 Level 3 International: Introduction to the Study of Fashion, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Materials and Product Technology:

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

Mireille Steinhage, 2022 Material Futures, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
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Buying, Merchandising and Supply Chain

Buying

Buying is one of the most popular career pathways in fashion. A career in fashion buying involves selecting the right clothing and accessories for stores or online platforms to meet customer demand and sales targets. Buyers work closely with suppliers, designers, and internal teams like merchandising and marketing to plan and build ranges that align with current trends, price points, and sustainability goals. They analyse sales data, attend trade shows, and negotiate with vendors to ensure the right products are delivered on time and within budget.

They then oversee the product life cycle from start to finish, often working towards sustainability objectives. While the role of a Buyer often seems glamourous, entry-level roles in buying are often desk jobs which focus on inventory management, market research, trend forecasting, and supplier communication. As buyers gain experience, they may take ownership of specific product categories and work their way up to roles like Senior Buyer or Head of Buying.

Examples of roles within Supply Chain:
  • Buyers Admin Assistant
  • Junior/Assistant/Senior Buyer
  • Buyers Clerk
  • Branded Buyer
Zoe Zanon Rives in the studio, 2020 PGCert Fashion Buying and Merchandising, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in buying:

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

Daisy Hristova studying in the Library
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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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Education and Research

Professional Services

The Professional Service teams work behind the scenes in a school, university or public museum. Vital to the running of educational institutions, people in these roles contribute to non-academic operations, which support teaching, research, and student success.

Their responsibilities are varied, from providing student support, handling administration and operational support tasks, to running the building facilities or offering employability support. They enable the academic teams to focus on their core responsibilities. Their work extends beyond the immediate learning environment, impacting areas like alumni relations, fundraising, and community engagement. 

Those in a professional service role may also complete outreach work connecting with industry to build company networks. Progression within these roles can be linear or move sideways across different areas within professional services, as a lot of the skills required for these job roles are transferable.

Examples of roles within Professional Services:
  • Technicians
  • Outreach Officers
  • Student Services Officer
  • Recruitment and Admissions Administrator
  • Programme Administrator
  • Research Support Coordinator
CSM, March 2016, Photographer: Alys Tomlinson, UAL, UAL student recruitment
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Professional Services:
  • All LCF Courses could lead to a career in professional services.

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

Regenesis Lab workshop for Earth Day, 2023, UAL | Photograph: Joe O’Brien
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Design and Craft Garments, Textiles and Materials Development

Print and Textile Design

Print and textile design involves designing and developing fabric patterns, textures, and materials used in clothing, interiors, and accessories. Designers in this field work with both traditional and digital techniques to create printed, woven, and experimental surfaces. They research trends, draw or digitally render designs, and often produce fabric samples using methods like screen printing, dyeing, or embroidery. A strong eye for colour, form, and texture is essential, alongside technical knowledge of materials and production processes.

Some designers specialise in areas such as knitwear, jersey, or digital printing. Working either in-house for brands or independently, textile designers contribute creatively to collections while addressing broader concerns like sustainability, identity, and innovation. Progression can vary in these roles. You could own your own company or brand, or become Head of Textiles, Woven Textile Designer or Head of Print within another brand. These brands’ products can range from interior design to accessories and apparel.

Examples of roles within Print and Textile Design:
  • Surface Pattern Textile Designer
  • Print Technician
  • Junior/Assistant Print Designer
  • Studio Assistant
  • Pattern and Print Maker
  • Print Designer
  • Circular Design Expert
Work by Nikhita Andi on display, with a visitor interacting with the installation, 2021 MA Textile Design, Chelsea College of Arts
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Print and Textile Design:

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

Yifan Yang, 2021 Graduate Diploma Textile Design, Chelsea College of Arts, UAL
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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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Styling, Make-up and Production Theatre, Performance and Screen

Prosthetics and Special Effects

Prosthetics and Special Effects is an exciting and highly creative area within the fashion and entertainment industries, combining artistic skill with technical expertise to transform performers through makeup, prosthetics, and visual illusions. Professionals in this field design and apply everything from realistic wounds and scars to fantastical creatures and characters for film, TV, theatre, fashion shoots, and events. Using techniques such as sculpting, moulding, casting, and airbrushing, special effects (SFX) artists bring scripts and stories to life. These roles demand precision, creativity, and a strong understanding of anatomy, materials, and safety protocols.

Many SFX Artists work freelance, building strong portfolios and networks and can progress to becoming a Lead SFX Artist or Creative Director. Increasingly, this field intersects with fashion through wearable art and custom prosthetic design, using technologies like 3D printing to blend functionality with personal style. Whether applying stage blood for a theatre production or designing avant-garde prosthetics for a fashion show, this is a hands-on, collaborative, and imaginative career path for those who love storytelling through transformation.

examples of roles within prosthetics and special effects:
  • Special Effects Artist
  • Prosthetic Technician
  • Moldshop/Projects Supervisor
  • Prosthetic Designer
  • Prosthetic Applicator/Makeup Artist
  • Wig and Hair Technician
  • Continuity Specialist
Giannah Snagg sketching in the studio | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in prosthetics and special effects:

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

3D Prosthetics and Sculpting Studio, 2024, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ana Blumenkron
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Buying, Merchandising and Supply Chain

Sourcing

The Sourcing department’s purpose is to find fabrics and components that make up a garment. The sourcing team ensures that these materials are high quality, cost-effective, legally compliant, and increasingly sustainable. They manage supplier relationships, contracts, and factory performance, playing a key role in ensuring products are made responsibly and delivered on time.

As the fashion industry evolves, sourcing professionals must also adapt to changing consumer demands, global market conditions and technology reshaping sourcing. Processes are becoming faster, more transparent, and traceable. Innovations like blockchain ensure materials are legally and ethically sourced, while reshoring, bringing production closer to home, helps reduce costs and lead times. Sourcing professionals are now expected to understand data, digital tools, and global supply chains.

Working in this field can lead to higher roles like Fabric Sourcing Manager, Sourcing Director, or Head of Sourcing. Over time, this field also offers the opportunity to grow into specialist or freelance roles, managing sourcing strategies for major fashion brands.

Examples of roles within Sourcing:
  • Sustainable Sourcing Assistant
  • Ethical and Responsible Sourcing Officer
  • Junior/Senior Sourcing Assistant
  • Sustainability Coordinator
  • Sourcing Specialist
  • Buying Admin Assistant
  • Production Assistant
  • Sourcing Assistant
Textiles work by Laetitia Forst, PhD Research Student
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in sourcing:

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

Zoe Zanon Rives in the studio, 2020 PGCert Fashion Buying and Merchandising, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Business and Management Retail Operations

Operations

Operations roles in the fashion and retail industry are essential for keeping both physical and online stores running smoothly. From managing inventory and supply chains to ensuring daily store activities align with brand strategy, operations teams focus on delivering efficient processes that enhance the customer experience. These professionals often work from a brand’s head office, supporting store teams, implementing new procedures, and helping reduce environmental impact. They play a key role in making sure products are delivered on time, displayed correctly, and sold efficiently.

Operations careers can range from entry-level logistics coordinators to senior roles like Head of Retail Operations or Business Operations Manager. People in these roles need strong problem-solving, organisation, and communication skills, and often work across departments to align strategy, budgets, and performance goals. With experience, individuals can move into broader leadership roles or specialise in areas like creative operations, supply chain strategy, or retail planning. It’s a great career path for those interested in the business side of fashion and who enjoy keeping things running behind the scenes.

Examples of roles within Operations:
  • Business Operations Analyst
  • Operations Planner
  • Technical Developer
  • Retail Operations Intern
Xiang Shi, 2022 BA (Hons) Fashion Design and Development, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Operations:

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

February 2017, LCC, UAL
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Categories
Buying, Merchandising and Supply Chain Science and Cosmetics

Trend Forecasting

Trend forecasting in fashion involves predicting future styles, colours, fabrics, and consumer preferences by analysing current and past trends, market data, and cultural influences. Forecasters study customer behaviour, attend fashion shows, explore street style, and examine online search patterns to spot emerging trends. Their insights help fashion brands, designers, and retailers plan ahead, ensuring products stay relevant and appeal to what consumers will want next. Creating detailed reports is a key part of the role, as these help companies make informed decisions about design, marketing, and stock planning.

Early career roles in this field often support research, reporting, and collaboration with designers, media teams, and marketing professionals. Strong observational skills, creativity, and an understanding of cultural and industry shifts are important. Digital skills, such as managing databases and staying active on social media, are also valuable for spotting and sharing trends. Although trend forecasting is a niche area, students can enter the field from backgrounds like fashion design, marketing, or merchandising.

These roles can be in-house with a larger brand, working for a dedicated trend forecasting company or even part time contracts and freelancing consultancy roles.

Examples of roles within Trend Forecasting:
  • Trend Forecaster
  • Trend Researcher
  • Junior/Assistant/Senior Trend Analyst
  • Junior/Assistant/Senior Product Analyst
  • Consumer Insights Analyst
Tanikha (Renzo) Allen showing her portfolio UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson

London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in trend forecasting:

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

Ziqi Ga, 2022 MA Material Futures, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
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