ADVICE #003
Delve into the world of fashion through candid conversations with seasoned professionals. In these short written interviews, we explore the wisdom garnered from their journeys, focusing on the advice they offer to aspiring students. Gain firsthand knowledge, tips, and guidance from those who have navigated the complexities of the fashion industry.
SENIOR FASHION DESIGNER AT LUXURY HOUSE
Claudia Girbau Pina always knew that a job in a creative field was her calling – she says that “I've always been drawn to creative pursuits and the world of arts”. Born in Barcelona in 1992, she came to London to study at the prestigious Central Saint Martins. Fast forward a few years, she has gone on to work for high-fashion brands, travelling all over Europe in the process.
In the vibrant world of fashion, success is a blend of creativity, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of one's dreams. Claudia Girbau, a seasoned professional in the fashion industry, shares her invaluable insights and advice for students studying fashion design, shedding light on the essential ingredients for a fulfilling career in this dynamic field.
How did you start your career in the fashion design industry?
What skills you believe are essential to succeed in this industry?
What are the most popular misconceptions and clichés?
What role does mentorship play in your career, and how would you advise young professionals to seek out mentors and sponsors?
What advice you would give fashion students or someone pursuing a career in this industry?
My journey began with a Bachelor's degree in fashion design with a focus on marketing. University studies in fashion were crucial for me. For anyone wondering if its essential to study fashion to work in the industry I’d say that in my experience, everyone I know working in this industry has had formal education in fashion. The industry is highly competitive and demanding, making it nearly impossible to succeed without a degree in the field.
Something you need to have if you work in the fashion industry is attitude. Working in a creative industry is quite a paradox, since you depend fully on your creativity but need the support of your colleagues, so having ana attitude that makes you go a step further and work towards your goal is very necessary. I always loved the fashion industry, not only because it was a glamorous space, but because it brings people from very different backgrounds, and erases all differences, it connects your through your creativity. I learned more ‘teaching myself’ through experimentation and from the people that studied with me than from my teachers.
Success in the fashion industry requires dedication and hard work. While creativity is essential, collaboration is equally important. In school, students often get lost in their own ideas, but in the industry, it's crucial to collaborate with a diverse group of people and effectively communicate your ideas. Being open to feedback and continuously improving communication skills is vital, especially in larger companies where teamwork is essential to achieve the final product. Additionally, ‘Being charismatic is always a plus in life.’
There are so many misconceptions that if we start talking would never end, plus I find it depressing and discouraging to think about them. While salaries are a big topic in the industry, I've found that larger luxury brands tend to offer more competitive compensation packages. Smaller companies may offer lower salaries due to budget constraints. But you can live off what you make and me happy. As a cliché we do work a lot of hours, I have been lucky not at the beginning, but I have been always compensated for extra hours.
Having a mentorship is one of the best things that can happen while working., it’s really inspiring to have someone above your age with probably your dream job believing in you and giving you the tools to succeed. I have always been extremally grateful when working with women as my superiors and I have always tried to identify with them and admire them.
It’s hard to give advice to students because I would give myself very different advice on my different stages in my career. My advice for those who are young, not necessary from my own experience, is that if you want to start your brand do not hesitate and do it young, there won’t be a better, most ideal time. Moreover, I’d say that the happiest people in the fashion industry are those who have their own brand, however they are the ones that work restlessly.
In my case I never aspired to start my own brand; my dream was always to work for a renowned luxury brand. Over time, I've come to realize that the luxury sector aligns best with my creative vision and personal style. It's where I can truly unleash my creativity and contribute to iconic fashion moments. If I could go back in time, I’d style take the same path as I have taken, I’m happy with my life choices, I do not have any regrets.
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