Break into The Fashion Industry with Ms. Joyce Corrigan
Joyce Corrigan, who is currently a contributing editor and writer at Marie Claire, visited the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications on Feb. 11. Corrigan was a contributor to Italian Vogue and an executive editor of ELLE magazine. She is also the author of Marie Claire’s “Outfit 911: Fabulous Fixes for Every Fashion Emergency” and the soon to be released “Dress Skinny: Perfecting Your Style, Flattering Your Body, Looking Fabulous.”
During the Question & Answer session, Corrigan shared her own experiences and feeling about the fashion industry. “Energy and passion are the most essential characteristics you need for the fashion industry,” said Corrigan. The fashion industry is not easy, and the film The Devil Wears Prada shows the real fashion world without exaggeration. Corrigan told the audience to go on every possible job to open your mind and practice your skills. She also offered advice on preparing for your first job. Use your Syracuse connections to build a network; that’s how Corrigan got her first job. Don’t be afraid or shy to connect with alumni. They recognize that Syracuse connection, and they’re usually willing to lend a helping hand.
Parties are always not loved by parents; however, Corrigan encouraged fashion industry candidates to go to parties to meet people and extend their social circles. Try to get into fashion shows, but don’t be upset if you can’t participate in the high-grade fashion shows like Calvin Klein. Talking with people and taking cards always has incredible effects.
As a senior fashion magazine editor who has worked in many countries with different cultural backgrounds, Ms. Corrigan said fashion could cut across misunderstandings during cross-cultural communication. However, flexibility is still required when working in fashion industries around the world.
There are also some tips from Prof. Lloyd.
- Join LinkedIn
- Utilize social media like Facebook and Twitter to meet people
- Do not be afraid to ask for an introduction
- Take journalism courses to learn how to write news.
