The Fashion Business major is an exciting and dynamic field of study that merges the creative aspects of fashion with the strategic principles of business. This major is designed for students who are passionate about the world of fashion and want to understand how the industry operates behind the scenes—from product development and merchandising to marketing and global supply chain management. The program provides a comprehensive education that covers both the aesthetic elements of fashion design and the practical aspects of running a successful fashion business.

As the fashion industry continues to evolve in the digital age, with trends like fast fashion, sustainable practices, and e-commerce reshaping the market, there is an increasing demand for professionals who possess a blend of creativity, business acumen, and strategic thinking. The fashion business major prepares students to thrive in this fast-paced industry by equipping them with essential skills in areas such as branding, retail management, buying, trend analysis, and financial planning.

This interdisciplinary major combines coursework in marketing, finance, retail operations, fashion merchandising, and even technology to prepare students for a wide range of roles within the fashion industry. Graduates from fashion business programs can pursue careers in fashion buying, visual merchandising, product development, brand management, or even entrepreneurship, launching their own fashion labels or consulting businesses.

With internship opportunities, industry partnerships, and hands-on learning experiences, a fashion business major provides a unique gateway into one of the most vibrant and globally impactful industries today. Whether you’re drawn to the creative side of fashion or interested in the strategic complexities of running a fashion enterprise, this major offers the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in this competitive field.

The fashion industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving, requiring professionals who can make quick, informed decisions while staying ahead of trends. As a Fashion Business major, you will learn how to navigate this competitive landscape, developing the ability to forecast trends, manage brands, and create strategic business solutions that drive profitability and innovation. The program typically offers hands-on experience through internships, industry projects, and study abroad opportunities in fashion capitals like New York, Paris, or Milan.

In addition to the business fundamentals, Fashion Business majors often explore topics like sustainability, ethical production, and the impact of technology on fashion, such as e-commerce and digital marketing. This broad foundation ensures that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the modern challenges of the industry and succeed in roles that require both creative insight and business acumen. Whether you aspire to manage a major fashion brand, start your own fashion line, or specialize in merchandising or marketing, a Fashion Business major provides the knowledge, skills, and connections needed to build a successful career in this exciting field.

Could a major in fashion business be right for you?

Here are a few programs for you to browse.

Parsons School of Design at The New School, New York

Strategic Design and Management Program

Parsons School of Design, located in New York City, offers a unique Strategic Design and Management program that combines business principles with design thinking. This undergraduate major emphasizes the integration of creative design with strategic business management, preparing students to navigate and lead within the fashion industry’s evolving landscape.

Job Outcomes: Graduates from Parsons’ Strategic Design and Management program have a diverse array of career paths, including brand management, product development, creative direction, marketing, and business strategy. Alumni have secured positions at companies like Gucci, Prada, Nike, and LVMH. Many also work at the intersection of fashion and tech, where design innovation plays a critical role. Additionally, Parsons fosters entrepreneurship, and many graduates go on to launch their own fashion or lifestyle brands.

Internship Opportunities: Parsons' strong industry connections, paired with its location in the heart of Manhattan, provide ample internship opportunities. Students regularly intern at prestigious fashion houses, marketing agencies, and tech companies that focus on design and innovation. Internships are available in fields such as fashion marketing, merchandising, product design, and business strategy. Past internships include placements with brands like Balenciaga, Alexander Wang, and emerging fashion startups.

Ideal Student Profile: The ideal student at Parsons is creative, forward-thinking, and passionate about both design and business strategy. They are entrepreneurial, able to blend creativity with analytical thinking, and interested in how design impacts consumer behavior, brand strategy, and global business. Students should be prepared to challenge traditional business models and explore innovative solutions, particularly within the fashion and design industries. Those who are visionary, collaborative, and eager to push the boundaries of the fashion business will thrive in this program.

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Parsons School of Design is perfect for students who want to combine creativity with strategic business management and are interested in the intersection of design, business, and innovation. Students with entrepreneurial aspirations or an interest in working at the cutting edge of fashion and technology will thrive here.

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