A career in the fashion industry is much more than design. Fashion is about helping people express themselves and feel comfortable. If you are creative, detail oriented and passionate about fashion, then there are almost endless opportunities out there for you.

Merchandise Assistant. Working closely with a buyer, a merchandising assistant creates a strategy to enable a company to stock their stores. They are in charge of getting the right merchandise, in the right quantities, at the right price, in the right place at the right time. It’s about creating a balance between the expectations of the customer and the company.

Design Assistant. Fashion design combines the creative and the business aspects of fashion. A design assistant is responsible for researching current trends, coming up with new ideas, preparing color boards and assisting designers during fittings. Design assistants may also function as assistant buyers.

Assistant Buyer. The primary job of an assistant buyer is to keep track of the purchase-order process: planning inventory, tracking sales and interacting with vendors. They need to be able to participate in competitive buying and be knowledgeable about the products they are after.

Patternmaker. Based on sketches done by designers, a patternmaker either draws or uses a computer to create a draft of new patterns. They may also create a mockup fabric sample of the pattern. Patternmakers need to have extensive knowledge of fashion and trends. They need to be able to adapt old patterns to fit slightly newer styles and interpret the completely new designs put forth by designers.

Stylist. A stylist chooses clothing and accessories to be featured in editorials, magazines, advertising campaigns, concerts, music videos and public appearances of celebrities. They work in collaboration with fashion designers, directors, hair and makeup stylists and photographers. The goal is to create a theme or accomplish a specific look. They also play a crucial role in planning fashion parades and events.