Are you the type of person who enjoys keeping up with the latest fashion styles? Or, perhaps you’re a classic stylist who enjoys the throwback styles of yesteryear? Either way, a career in the retail fashion industry might seem like an exciting field to work in.

Retail Fashion Job Description

There are a few retail fashion jobs that are great careers if you’re quite the fashionista. They run the gamut from a fashion designer to a fashion buyer and everything in between. Let’s learn more about the most common retail fashion jobs – a retail fashion associate.

A retail fashion associate works in a clothing store or the clothing department of a large department store. Also called a salesperson, a retail fashion associate is a person who assists customers as they make clothing selections. They may offer advice to shoppers along with fashion tips or handle customer complaints or questions.

Though a fashion salesperson may not be the upper tier job of the fashion industry, they certainly are an integral part of the fashion world. They help to bring fashion products to the consumer and the great customer service they can offer is paramount to encourage return customers.

A salesperson in a retail sales job usually helps with inventory, checks customers out and accepts payments, bags purchases, and may even help with displays and stock the store clothing racks.

It goes without saying that a great fashion salesperson keeps up with current fashion trends and can coordinate apparel pieces with great ease. Since a retail associate works with the public, you should work well with people and deal with stress well, especially around holiday seasons, which can be busier sales periods.

If you decide to work in fashion retail, you should expect to spend a lot of time on your feet. This is another consideration when thinking about a retail sales job.

Retail Fashion Sales Salaries

As of 2016, retail fashion assistants or a fashion salesperson averages up to $10.90 per hour or $22,900 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you’re able to advance to a retail store manager, your salary can increase substantially up to $42,900 a year.

For-Instances

Iconic women’s fashion boutique Chico’s offers retail fashion sales jobs in Chestnut Hill, MA with some retail experience preferred, but not necessary.

Energetic European fashion brand Primark is currently searching to fill retail assistant jobs in Boston, MA. Stores will often hold open calls as demand for those positions is high.

Training and Requirements for Retail Fashion Jobs

There is no advanced degree required to become a retail fashion salesperson or associate. You will just need a keen eye for fashion and some of the attributes previously mentioned.

It’s important to note that if advancement to a retail manager or buyer is a goal, a degree in fashion design or merchandising, marketing, or communications may be preferred by employers.

Fashion retail salespeople often receive in-store training. While experience isn’t usually required, it’s a plus, particularly in higher-end or boutique stores.

Author: Phyllis Romero