The fashion industry is something many girls strive to be a part of. Gina Kelly, former Fashion Director at Seventeen Magazine, has some advice to offer to girls aspiring to get into the magazine industry!

Did you always know you wanted to be in the fashion industry?

“No. I always loved magazines but did not know I could make a career out of it. “

How did you get to be Fashion Director at Seventeen?

“I actually majored in Marketing in college. When I moved to Manhattan from Boston I was trying to find marketing jobs anywhere. I saw that there was a position at Seventeen in their marketing department. I decided to apply and then I got it. I found myself being drawn to the fashion department and after being there for a while the closet assistant position opened and I made a huge decision to go for it. I got that job, fell in love with it all and worked my way up the ladder to my position as Fashion Director.”

Do you think there is a required major for a student to have that desires to get into a position such as yours?

“No. At Seventeen there was people with Cinematography majors, English majors and even a few Biology majors. A lot of people there did not realize that it was what they wanted to do, such as myself and fell into it! I  think the diversity in majors allows for a great group of intellectuals to work with.”

What advice would you offer a student that wants to get into the industry, but does not know where to start?

“Pick a major that interests you. After that get into the field and work, work, work! Internships are the best and most important way of getting your foot in the door. We were always constantly looking at interns and passion truly stands out. Regardless of any rumors or cliches that interns are there for coffee runs, editors notice the work they put in and the talent. If you are starting an internship or a job in something you want then put 100% into it and you will rise above. Also remember no one starts at the top. Be humble and work your way up.”

What was your favorite part about working at Seventeen?

The floor of the Seventeen Fashion Closet during March Shoe Madness

“I loved being months ahead of fashion and helping to decide what the readers are going to look at for inspiration. It was a very important influential position because young girls and young adults that read the magazine look to find themselves in fashion. Seventeen focuses on real everyday girls and affordable fashions and the difference I have seen Seventeen make was my favorite part! The amazing clothes and shoes didn’t hurt either!”

 

 

Gina Kelly stepped down as Fashion Director to pursue a career with Victoria Secret. The fashion industry, like many, is a ladder that people need to work their way up. This causes positions to constantly be opening up for new individuals looking to make that next step. Working at a magazine such as Seventeen or Vogue could seem like an overwhelming task for the thousands of girls who dream of doing so. Gina Kelly inspires girls to work hard and not give up. To get the experience Gina Kelly is talking about, girls can try websites and apply for internships to show off their passion HERE