Jess. Product Writer - Fashion

Jess is a twenty-four-year-old Product Writer for Net-a-Porter. She is originally from Essex but is now based in London and has worked in the fashion industry for two years.

How did you get into your field? What inspired you?

‘Applying to and doing lots (& lots) of internships. I have always been interested in fashion, style and interior design and dreamt of working for a fashion magazine.’

What did you study at university and did this help you get into your field?

‘I have a Philosophy degree which has given me a broad set of transferable skills - I have grown as a writer, communicator, critical reader and independent thinker while being able to confidently express and direct my ideas to be innovative and creative.’

Do you recommend any particular studies, courses or degrees for your field?

‘Many of my colleagues studied Fashion Journalism.’

What does an average day look like in your role?

‘Very fast-paced! I go to the sample room in the morning and afternoon to take pictures and make notes of any interesting details of the products I am working on. The products could be anything from a simple white tee to a crystal-embellished gown, or even a pair of feather-trimmed shoes!’

‘When back at my desk, I research relevant designer information, recent interviews, the inspiration behind the label's runway collection (if it’s a runway piece), key season trends and styling tips. Then, I write a short description of each item, ensuring each one aligns with the company’s tone of voice and is accurate, concise and informative.’

What is the best part of your role?

‘I get to interview and create working relationships with new fashion brands, designers and influencers. I write about a range of beautiful products every day - womenswear, menswear, beauty products, fine jewellery, accessories and shoes to name a few. And I am expanding my portfolio of fashion brands!’

What is the worst part of your role?

‘I work to daily deadlines, so I work at a fast pace and under pressure a lot of the time.’

How important is work/life balance to you and how much spare time do you have?

‘A good work/life balance is important to me though I find it quite hard to achieve sometimes because I'm a perfectionist when it comes to my work. I try to schedule in drinks and dinners with friends once or twice a week or book an evening gym class to stop me working late.’

Do you have any hobbies?

‘Happy Hour, trying new restaurants (I’m a big foodie) and visiting museums and exhibitions.’

Do you have any advice for people looking to start a career in the same field?

‘Get experience! Whether that involves interning with a fashion brand or magazine or even working in a retail position - this will all help you to build industry contacts.

‘Be creative with your CV / portfolio, ask questions and be respectful of people that have done the work before you.’

Have you ever experienced any uncertainties about your career? What did you do to overcome them?

‘Graduating with a Philosophy degree, I was worried about how I would get my entry-ticket into the working world of fashion when I had zero experience. I overcame this uncertainty by using a wide range of transferable skills I gained from my degree and coming up with creative ways to show that I had a passion for fashion - even if that meant that I started at the bottom with internships and worked my way up!’

Who is your biggest female inspiration and why?

‘Grace Kelly because she taught me that life can really be a fairytale.’