QUIZ UK – Day in the life of a fashion designer – thecareercafe
A lot of us can only dream of what it’s like working for a fashion brand with stores across the globe. With a phenomenal presence as an online retailer for both menswear and womenswear, several stores across the UK and entities in Spain and America, we were welcomed into the office of Emma Kenyon — a leading fashion designer at QUIZ.
If you’re a fan of Devil Wears Prada, this girl is the nicer version of Miranda Priestly. So, if you’re studying fashion or want to make waves in the industry, this is the girl boss that you should be looking up to and we have all the deetz you’re dying to know.
When did you start working for QUIZ?
I’ve been at QUIZ for around five years now — I guess time flies when you’re having fun. It’s interesting how I got to work here actually, I’ve always respected QUIZ as a brand and how it influenced my fashion choices when I was younger, so I rang up the HQ and told them that I thought I would make a great addition to their team even though there were no positions available, I secured two interviews and done a huge presentation in front of the decision makers!
What is do you do when you arrive at the HQ?
I love knowing which styles our customers are loving, so I always check this on a morning. Long sleeve dresses seem to be popular at the moment! This is really important from a design perspective, because once we know the type of items of customers want, we can tailor future products to those specifications!
What do you do daily?
As a designer, I need to see what is working outside of QUIZ — a lot of my inspiration comes from high-end brands! It’s important to strike a balance between affordability and the latest trends so that our customers can always have an up-to-date wardrobe at a low cost while not compromising on the quality of our garments.
What do you like most about your job?
I absolutely love seeing my designs enter stores. It’s exciting when I’m scrolling on Instagram and seeing lots of people wearing the dresses I have designed on their nights out!
Do you get inspired by other designers?
Of course! It’s important to look at what your industry peers are doing. I always look at trend forecasting agencies, catwalks and social media!
Is there a secret to being a good fashion designer?
Everyone who wants to be a fashion designer must have an interest in the industry itself. You’ll need a lot of motivation, the ability to pick commercial trends and be able to know your customers like the back of your hand!
What did you study to become a fashion designer?
It’s not always about being specialised in just one area, you must try your best at all exams! However, I did GCSEs and A-Levels in Textiles, then moved on to an Art and Design course at college where I specialised in fashion. Then, I went to university for four years and got my fashion design degree!
What is the best advice you can give?
Hustle! Try and get as much experience as you can. Before QUIZ, I completed an internship at House of Holland in the lead up to London Fashion Week where I learnt pattern cutting. As well as this, I also worked in John Lewis’ head office as an intern where I learnt CAD design skills. Take as many opportunities as you can — it will look great on your CV!
Related Articles
