When you think of fashion, you probably think of the major superstars; the high-end models, the world-famous designers, and even the famous photographers. But it is important to understand that the fashion industry is incredibly large. And the vast majority of those who have fashion careers don't make megabucks. In fact, fashion salaries are quite normal pretty much across the board. People don't usually join because of the money. They join because of the access, potential fame, glamour, excitement, and the perpetual promise of overnight success.
Featured Schools
When you think of fashion, you probably think of the major superstars; the high-end models, the world-famous designers, and even the famous photographers. But it is important to understand that the fashion industry is incredibly large. And the vast majority of those who have fashion careers don't make megabucks. In fact, fashion salaries are quite normal pretty much across the board. People don't usually join because of the money. They join because of the access, potential fame, glamour, excitement, and the perpetual promise of overnight success.
The Real Scoop on Fashion jobs
Exact fashion salaries vary depending on the individual jobs. Lawyers in the fashion industry tend to make a lot more then Web designers, for example. But let's focus on the most popular fashion careers.
Models
Although some models make upwards of $100, $300, or even $1000 an hour, the median salary for this particular occupation hovers around $10 an hour, according to the US Department of Labor. With the right type of representation and drive, it is possible to rise well above this, but it's important to know where the national average stands.
Photographers
The US Department of Labor does not distinguish between newspaper photographers or fashion photographers, but the overall median salary for this particular career is roughly $26,000 a year. But because many photographers work freelance, there is always the potential to make substantially more.
Designers
Designers probably have the highest fashion salaries of the lot, making between $50,000 and $60,000 a year on average. Again, this salary estimate is extremely variable since many designers literally blow up overnight. If you're in the right place at the right time, success, glory, and fame are entirely within reach.
Regardless of which fashion careers you pursue, is imperative that you receive formal training first. Those who chase after fashion jobs without a degree tend not to make it very far. Do not fall into this trap.
2007-01-29
