Do you enjoy keeping on top of the latest fashion trends? Trend forecasting might be the career for you. Fashion forecasters play a key role in the fashion industry, ensuring designers and retailers are creating clothes and accessories that are on trend. Brands simply would not be successful without a trend forecaster or two at hand.
Trend forecasting goes beyond guessing what’s going to be popular. It takes a significant amount of research and knowledge, which is why it is a sought after job position.
To find out more about trend forecasting and what it takes to work in the field, scroll down.
While trend forecasting might sound a little mystical and magical, it’s actually an in-depth analytical process that involves spotting patterns. To do this effectively, fashion forecasters use consumer insights to predict what trends will have an impact on certain demographics. They also examine new and emerging trends to see how they may influence future trends. It’s essentially a role that infuses creativity and analysis to distinguish upcoming trends.
Once a textile designer gains an understanding of potential upcoming trends, they work with clients to develop strategies that will enable them to leverage those insights. Using this information allows clients to optimize their products. It even helps with their marketing strategies.
Fashion forecasters predict which colours, fabrics, textures, and prints will be forthcoming trends in stores and on the runway from season to season. The internet also plays a role, as forecasters will research upcoming designer collections and new looks popular on social media platforms like Instagram and Pinterest.
Ultimately, a trend forecaster’s role lies in helping designers and retailers attract more customers and sell their products.
There are two different types of trend forecasting: short-term and long-term.
Short-term trend forecasting involves focusing on micro trends. Short-term forecasts change depending on the season and are influenced by current events and pop culture.
Long-term trend forecasting focuses on macro trends, such as major shifts in fashion that will relevant for two years of more. Long-term trends are the big-picture trends that define the industry. Everything from demographics to lifestyle can affect the way clothes and accessories are made and sold.
Some trend forecasters focus on short-term forecasting while others focus on long-term forecasting.
First, being a fashion trend forecaster is an exciting job role where you’ll be on the cutting edge of new trends and technologies. If you enjoy staying up to date with the latest trends, this is the right career path for you. It even comes with the potential of being an influencer, as you can create content that influences how other people see trends.
In addition to shaping public opinion and helping brands define their customer strategies, being a trend forecaster gives you the opportunity to travel to new places. In fact, travel is a big part of the job, so if you’re someone who likes seeing new places, you’ll love being a trend forecaster.
As fun and dynamic as trend forecasting is, it doesn’t come without its challenges. Trends come and go with lightening speed, which means you’ll need to stay ahead in order to succeed. Trend forecasters must be comfortable working in a constantly changing environment.
Other challenges involve traveling extensively, working closely with teams, and maintaining an unbiased perspective on fashion trends.
At times, you may be asked to cover projects outside your areas of interest, which might prove difficult. Textile designers are expected to take on jobs that may not be a passion simply to move forward and help the team.
Salaries depend on location and employer. The average salary for a trend researcher is £31,035 per year in the United Kingdom. Of course, it can be lower or higher depending on your experience, location, and the company for which you are working.
Senior fashion forecasters at top firms can earn £50,000+.
If you’re interested in pursing a career in fashion forecasting, aim to get a degree in fashion design, textile design, fashion merchandising, or textile merchandising. It is important to hone your knowledge in the field before applying for jobs. After all, you can’t do the job if you don’t know how. A formal education can help lay the foundations for a prosperous career as a trend forecaster.
Most aspiring forecasters spend years working their way up the ladder to become a fashion forecaster for a top firm. In addition to a degree, employers’ favour those with at least six years of experience in the fashion industry or related fields like marketing, merchandising, or retail.
The best way to get into this position is by completing an internship or work experience within a company. This will give you the hands-on experience you need to thrive as a trend forecaster and it looks impressive on your CV.
We also recommend making contacts in the industry. Whether on LinkedIn or at fashion events, there are plenty of ways to meet people in the field. This is another great way to gain opportunities to advance your career and finally land that dream job role as a fashion forecaster.
Thinking of becoming a trend forecaster? Check you have these skills first. If not, make sure you hone these skills before pursuing a career in trend forecasting.
Trend forecasting is an excellent career choice for people who are interested in fashion trends and staying ahead of the curve. If you’re considering a career in trend forecasting, make sure you get the adequate training, experience, and connections – and most importantly, don’t give up! It is possible to get your dream job in trend forecasting!
If you’re interested in learning more about this topic, check out our podcast episode where we discuss Trend Forecasting in Fashion with an expert.
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