Education

• 1). Obtain an associate or bachelor's degree in fashion merchandising, fashion design or merchandise product development. Attend a postsecondary school that is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, and offers a curriculum with marketing and business courses. Learn how to perform market analysis, research trends, construct garments, create clothing lines and select fabrics. Study color theory, figure sketching, fashion history, draping, pattern making, and fashion industry technology and software.
  
  
• 2). Become an intern for a fashion house, designer, retail store or fashion publication while attending school. Gain entry-level experience under the direction of fashion coordinators and other experienced professionals, who can help you build organizational, communication and leadership skills needed in an assistant fashion coordinator role. Handle miscellaneous tasks, including copying, faxing, basic industry research and event planning.
  
  
• 3). Search for an entry-level retail sales associate or merchandising assistant position with a department store, major retailer, fashion company or boutique. Work out in the field with customers, display clothing on sales floor, coordinate sales, and update window and store displays. Strengthen your sales, interpersonal and communication skills, and build awareness about consumer behavior and fashion trends.
  
  
• 4). Apply for higher-level positions, such as retail manager, assistant buyer and retail buyer, as you gain additional experience in the industry. Work closely with fashion coordinators to determine which clothing to purchase based on consumer tastes and store budgets. Attend trade shows and fashion shows, and network with designers, fashion professionals and media personnel. Study catalogs to become familiar with the season's latest styles, and up-and-coming designers.
  
  
• 5). Use your cumulative professional experience and education in the fashion world to apply for an assistant fashion coordinator job. Browse online job boards, or reach out to fashion contacts within your network to find out if there are available job opportunities.