As a fashion major, I face the constant struggle of hearing comments every day from my peers about how it isn’t a “real major.” Here are five of the craziest myths that I’ve encountered throughout the past two years of college.
1. Fashion majors play dress up all day long.
I hear this so much from classmates, family and friends. I’m not sure why most people tend to think that all fashion majors do is hang around the nearest mall all day and play dress up, but that is farthest from the truth.
Contrary to what most people think, our classes are super hands-on. Meaning that we have to put in tons of extra time out of the classroom.
For example, I had Apparel I last summer. This was basically teaching us the fundamentals of sewing and, as the class grew on, the coursework got much harder. We would have to make a couple garments a week.
In order to get this done, I had to spend hours in the sewing lab, not something someone usually wants to do during their summer break. Being a fashion major means you are a hardworking individual and have a determination and passion for fashion, because this competitive industry isn’t easy.
2. Fashion majors are always dressed up.
Another myth. Just like everyone else, we have 8 a.m. classes and late night study sessions until 3 a.m. So just like you, we would rather have those extra five minutes of sleep over everything. The only difference is that we know how to look a bit more glamorous in our sweatpants and messy buns.
3. Fashion majors take easy classes, meaning we should all have straight As & a 4.0 GPA.
I absolutely hate hearing this from people. “Oh you’re a fashion major, so you should have all A’s and a 4.0 GPA. Your classes are easy, just drawing clothes and dressing up.”
Yes, someone actually said that to me once.
We take classes that you wouldn’t expect for fashion majors. This semester, I am taking accounting. Yes, this is mandatory for my major and yes it is kicking my butt at the moment.
4. Fashion major make all their clothes.
When I tell people that I am a fashion major, their first instinct is to say, “So you want to be a designer? You must know how to make all your clothes.” When in reality, I can’t draw or sew to the standards that I would like.
I am more of a merchandiser/stylist. There are so many more careers in the fashion industry besides just designing, such as styling, marketing, fashion photography, modeling and more.
5. Fashion majors won’t be able to find a job after graduation.
“That’s actually a major?” “Why would you choose that? You’ll never be able to find a job after graduation.” “Have fun working at WalMart for the rest of you life with that major.”
Yes, these are actual comments I have received from people after finding out my major. Just like any major, there will probably be difficulty getting a job after graduation. The fashion industry is a pretty competitive industry, but I will for sure find a job if I put in the hard work because this is what I am passionate about 110 percent.