Author: Michelle Ashton

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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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Business and Management Culture, Community and Heritage

Business Development

Business development in the fashion and creative industries is all about turning ideas into successful ventures by driving growth, increasing revenue, and building strong client or partner relationships. Professionals in this field work on strategic planning, market research, fundraising and securing new opportunities – whether that’s launching a new product line, entering new markets, or building partnerships. Common roles include Business Development Manager, Partnerships Manager, and Head of Fundraising, all of which help grow a brand’s market presence and customer base.

A career in business development requires strong communication, organisation, and analytical skills. You may be involved in fundraising, client relationship management, or delivering membership and marketing strategies. As you gain experience, you might manage larger projects, oversee strategic campaigns, or lead teams. It’s a great pathway for those interested in the business side of creativity and offers flexible career options across retail, arts organisations, and fashion brands.

Examples of roles within business development:
  • Philanthropy Officer
  • Membership and Campaigns Officer
  • Bid Writer
  • Industry Coordinator
  • Membership Assistant
  • Fundraiser
  • Account Manager
  • Sales Development Representative
LCF Class of 2022 | Photograph: Suzannah Gabriel
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in business development:
  • All LCF Courses could lead to a career in business development.

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

Camberwell, March 2016, Photographer: Alys Tomlinson, UAL, UAL student recruitment
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Business and Management Communications and Marketing

Branding

Branding in the fashion and creative industries is all about shaping a brand’s unique identity, its story, values, and personality, and making sure it connects with the right audience. This includes everything from designing logos, packaging, and campaigns to building the emotional experience customers have with a brand. Branding works alongside marketing but focuses more on defining what a brand stands for, while marketing communicates that vision to drive sales and engagement.

As you gain experience, you can move into roles like Brand Manager or Creative Director, overseeing strategy and ensuring all brand touchpoints align. If you’re interested in creativity, storytelling, and business, branding offers an exciting career path where you can help shape how people see and feel about the brands they love.

Examples of roles within branding:
  • Brand Ambassador
  • Brand Management Intern
  • Advertising Coordinator
  • Graphic Designer
  • Social Media Assistant
  • Web Designer
Postgraduate Shows, Show Two: Design, 2024, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Mitsy Moulson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in branding:

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

Layered screenprint design, Zeynep Ozden, 2021 BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
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Design and Craft

Apparel Design

Apparel design is a central field in the fashion industries where designers develop clothing and accessories for various audiences and occasions, ranging from casualwear to haute couture. Fashion designers start by researching trends, sketching ideas by hand or using digital tools like CAD, and selecting fabrics, colours, and patterns to bring their concepts to life. They may work for high street brands, luxury fashion houses, or as independent designers, and often specialise in specific areas such as menswear, womenswear, lingerie, or sportswear.

Roles in this field require creativity, attention to detail, and a solid understanding of current and future trends. Designers often collaborate with product developers, buyers, and marketing teams to produce collections that align with a brand’s identity and consumer needs. As the industry shifts towards sustainability and innovation, there’s increasing demand for designers who can blend creative flair with eco-conscious practices. Career paths can lead from assistant designer roles to senior design manager or head of atelier positions, offering many opportunities to shape the fashion landscape.

Examples of roles in apparel design:
  • Studio/Design/Atelier Assistant
  • Junior Designer
  • Fashion Designer
  • Tailor
  • Product Developer
  • Circular Design Expert
Chaoting Wang, 2022 MA Fashion Design Technology (Menswear), London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Chaoting Wang
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in apparel design:

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

Illustration by Kaya Belmont, 2023 Design Pathway, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Education and Research

Academic

A career in academia involves teaching and research within primary, secondary, or higher education settings, including universities and adult education. Individuals typically specialise in one or two subject areas and balance responsibilities such as designing and delivering lessons, mentoring students, and assessing coursework. At university level, teaching is often combined with academic research to contribute new knowledge to a field through publications and conferences.

Academic roles also include administrative duties like managing budgets, applying for research funding, and serving on committees. Early career pathways may begin with teaching or research roles, with potential progression to senior positions such as Head of Department or Dean. Key skills include research and analytical abilities, strong communication, time management, and adaptability. Academia suits those passionate about their subject, eager to share knowledge, and committed to ongoing learning and development.

Examples of roles within Academia:
  • Research Fellow
  • Lecturer
  • Teacher
  • Professor
  • Research Associate
  • Examiner
  • Course Leaders
Rosalie Jervis, Yuening Jian with Kevin Freeman (Course Director) | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in academia:
  • All LCF Courses could lead to a career in academia.

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

Jack Heard, Paula De La Orden, Garima Singh with Julie O’Sullivan (Course Leader MBA) | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Theatre, Performance and Screen

3D Effects and Design

3D Effects specialists design and build physical and digital elements for performance, fashion, film, and immersive experiences. It is a growing area within the fashion and creative industries that blends traditional craft with cutting-edge digital tools. It includes everything from sculpting and mould-making to creating virtual garments, props, and environments using software like AutoCAD, Rhino, and 3D Studio Max. These roles often overlap with art direction and visual effects (VFX), and they play a key part in storytelling and brand presentation across live performance, editorial shoots, and digital platforms.

Practitioners are expected to be both creative and technically skilled, able to conceptualise ideas, produce accurate 3D models, and collaborate with teams across costume, set design, or digital fashion. This field suits those who enjoy hands-on making as well as digital innovation, and offers career paths in theatre, film, fashion tech, gaming, and virtual or augmented reality.

As sustainability and digital transformation become more important in the industry, 3D design skills are increasingly valuable and future focused. Following this path, you can grow into Senior Design, Production, or Department Head positions.

Examples of roles within 3d effects and design:
  • Junior/Assistant 3D Effects Designer
  • Prop Maker
  • 3D Artist
  • Character Modeller
  • Data Capture Technician
  • VFX Supervisor
  • VFX Artist
Amber Nicol, 2021 BA 3D Effects for Performance and Fashion, London College of Fashion, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in 3d effects and design:

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

Keziah Aguillo, 2023 BA Games Art, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Communications and Marketing Media, Publishing and Digital Theatre, Performance and Screen

Art Direction

The purpose of art direction is to design the creative vision. Art Direction is about shaping the visual identity and storytelling of a brand, campaign, or publication. Art Directors oversee the creative vision, working on everything from photoshoots and lookbooks to advertising, social media, and magazine layouts.

They lead a team of designers, photographers, and stylists, ensuring that all visual elements align with the brand’s message and values while managing details like budgets, timelines, and project coordination. Art Direction looks at the big picture. they progress through a project, they will work less on artwork development. Instead, they will focus on the creative concepts from a more holistic viewpoint.

This field suits those with a passion for creativity, strong visual and design skills, and the ability to balance artistic ideas with practical project management. With experience, professionals can move into senior roles like Art Director or Creative Director, where they set the overarching visual strategy.

Examples of Roles within Art Direction:
  • Junior/Assistant Creative
  • Editor
  • Junior Creative
  • Art Department Coordinator
  • Graphic Design Intern
  • Brand Executive
  • Copy Writer
  • Shoot Assistant
  • Stylist
To Feather One’s Nest by Louie Wittner, 2024 BA (Hons) Fashion Photography, London College of Fashion, UAL
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Art Direction:

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

Student Syeda Sumeya Ahmed using the photogrammetry rig, Digital Learning Lab
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Communications and Marketing Media, Publishing and Digital

Public Relations and Press

Public Relations (PR) and Press roles focus on building a brand’s public image and managing its reputation through media, influencer, and public engagement. PR professionals plan and deliver strategies to secure media coverage, organize events, write press releases, and coordinate collaborations or product launches. This career path is ideal for people with strong communication, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills, and trend analysis.

Tasks for entry level roles include sample management, media tracking, dealing with client enquiries, or helping at promotional, business and social events. Senior positions involve leading campaigns, writing press releases, advising clients, and overseeing high-profile events and partnerships.

Working within a larger PR agency, you could become Chief Account Executive or Head of Department. Progression in this role can also involve further training across the sector. This could lead to PR consultancy, advising corporate clients on communications strategy and policy.

Examples of Roles within Public Relations and Press:
  • PR Account Assistant
  • Events Assistant/Coordinator
  • Fashion PR Specialist
  • Press Assistant
  • Event Sales Assistant
Mo Oguntuase, Public Relations, LCC, UAL | Photographer : Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Public Relations and Press:

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

Antonia Harrold, 2021 BA Public Relations, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Communications and Marketing Media, Publishing and Digital

Communications

Communications is the process of understanding how different media (social media, advertising, print, and events) can be used to communicate and connect with an audience. This area can include branding, PR, styling, photography, copywriting, and visual merchandising, all working together to create a strong brand image and emotional connection with audiences.

This field blends many of the same creative, strategic, and people-focused skills as external communications, with a strong emphasis on empathy, adaptability, and understanding workplace dynamics. As you gain experience, you can move into specialised roles like Communications Manager, Brand Strategist, or Digital Marketing Lead.

External Communications:

Fashion communication is one of the underlying principles that supports other aspects of a fashion business. It helps brands to stand out in a competitive and saturated industry, understanding consumer behaviour, shaping brand stories, and delivering them in creative and consistent ways across platforms. In many companies, this area can also include Press and PR.

Internal Communications:

Internal communication plays a crucial role in keeping employees informed, engaged, and connected to the company’s mission. They use tools like newsletters, email bulletins, intranet updates, and social media to ensure staff understand company goals, values, and strategies. They help create a positive work culture, foster employee engagement, and support smooth communication across teams, especially important during times of change.

Examples of roles within Communications:
  • Communications Officer/Assistant
  • Digital Communications Editor/Assistant
  • Arts Administration
  • Internal Communications Assistant
  • Social Media Coordinator
  • Marketing Assistant
  • Editorial Assistant
Yuan (Wendy) Li, 2022 BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design, Central Saint Martins, UAL | Photograph: Ben Turner
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in Communications:

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

Alena Jarrett, 2023 BA Contemporary Media Cultures, London College of Communication, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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Culture, Community and Heritage

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

The Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I) field in the creative industries is focused on creating inclusive, fair, and representative environments where everyone can thrive. Roles in this area involve developing strategies, policies, and training to address underrepresentation and discrimination. Professionals in DE&I help ensure that workplaces and creative outputs reflect the diversity of society, from inclusive hiring practices to accessible content and campaigns, guiding organisations to become more welcoming and equitable.

Careers in DE&I combine communication, leadership, research, and cultural awareness. Entry-level roles like DE&I Coordinators or Trainers often support senior staff (such as Head of Access and Equity, Director of Culture or Chief Diversity Officer), in delivering impactful programmes and advocating for change across teams. As DE&I becomes more essential in fashion, media, and design, skilled professionals are helping shape industries that are not only more diverse, but also more innovative and representative of the world around them.

Examples of roles within DE&I:
  • Disability Support Coordinator
  • Audience Engagement Strategist
  • DEI Facilitator
  • Accessibility Specialist
  • Equity Advocate
  • DEI Program Curator
  • Digital Accessibility Assistant
  • Diversity and Inclusion Specialist
  • Diversity and Inclusion Trainer
  • Inclusion Officer
  • Inclusive Content Creator/Specialist
Luke Chin-Joseph, 2023 BA Fine Art (Sculpture), Camberwell College of Arts, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
London College of Fashion courses relevant to careers in DE&I:
  • • All LCF Courses could lead to a career in DE&I.

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

Mathushaa Sagthidas, 2021 BA Photography (now BA Fine Art: Photography), Camberwell College of Arts, UAL | Photograph: Alys Tomlinson
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