Breaking into fashion: The Journey of a Product Merchandiser
In this episode of Career Journals, we talk with Nishi, an Assistant Product Merchandiser at one of the world’s leading fashion retailers. She gives us an inside look at what it really takes to work in fashion merchandising, from tracking trends to collaborating with designers and buyers. Nishi also shares how she got started in the industry and what she wishes she knew earlier in her career.
If you're curious about what goes into getting clothes from sketches to store shelves, here’s a quick guide to this exciting field.
Steps to Get Into Fashion Merchandising
Earn a Bachelor’s Degree
Common majors include fashion merchandising, business, marketing, or design, but many paths can work with the right experience.Gain Relevant Experience
Internships, retail sales, visual merchandising, or assistant buying roles are great starting points.Learn the Market and Trends
Stay up-to-date on fashion trends, customer behavior, and competitor strategies.Apply for Merchandising Roles
Start with assistant or entry-level roles to gain hands-on experience with product planning, inventory management, and cross-functional teamwork.Develop Analytical and Communication Skills
Success in merchandising relies on strong data analysis, trend forecasting, and collaboration with design, buying, and planning teams.
Typical Job Titles Along the Way
Entry-Level
Merchandising Assistant
Assistant Product Merchandiser
Allocator or Planner
Mid-Level
Product Merchandiser
Merchandise Planner
Associate Buyer
Senior-Level
Senior Product Merchandiser
Merchandising Manager
Director of Merchandising
Estimated Salary Range*
Entry-Level: $45,000 to $65,000 per year
Mid-Level: $65,000 to $95,000 per year
Senior-Level: $95,000 to $200,000+ per year
*Salaries can vary based on company size, location, and brand recognition.
Why Choose This Career?
Fashion merchandising is all about turning creative ideas into products customers want to buy. It combines trend forecasting, business strategy, and close collaboration with designers and buyers. If you love fashion but also enjoy data, planning, and teamwork, merchandising is a dynamic, fast-paced field with lots of opportunity to grow.