Studying Fashion Management: 3 Myths You Should Stop Believing

Published by IIFM - Italian Institute of Fashion Management.

28 March 2025

When you think about fashion, what comes to mind first? Runways, designers, sketches, or perhaps creativity and glamour? While those are certainly part of the picture, there’s another side to the fashion world that’s equally crucial — and often overlooked: fashion management.

At IIFM, we meet students (and parents) who are fascinated by the fashion industry but unsure if management and business-focused programs are a "real" path. The truth is, they absolutely are. But to understand why, we first need to bust a few common myths.

Myth 1: “Fashion is Only for Creatives”

This is one of the biggest misconceptions. While creativity drives the fashion industry, it doesn’t exist in a vacuum. Behind every successful brand there are professionals managers who are able to strategically craft and manage brands, collections, product launches, marketing and digital initiatives, as well as communication strategies, analyzing data, building digital strategies, and leading international teams.

Today, the industry needs more than talented designers — it needs managers who understand the creative process but can also turn ideas into business success. That’s where fashion management comes in.

At IIFM, our students don’t learn how to sew a dress — they learn how to launch a collection, position a brand, develop a market strategy, and lead successful brands.

Myth 2: “Fashion Management Masters Don’t Lead to Serious Careers”

Wrong again. Fashion is a global industry worth over €1.5 trillion, and it’s evolving fast. With the rise of digital platforms, sustainability regulations, AI-powered retail, and consumer shifts, companies are seeking professionals who can navigate complexity and manage change.

Roles like Brand Manager, Fashion Buyer, Merchandiser, Digital Strategist, CRM Manager, Product Manager, and Sustainability Officer are not only real — they’re in high demand.

Our alumni work for leading brands and companies in Italy and abroad. Why? Because they don’t just have creative intuition — they speak the language of business.

Myth 3: “If You’re Not Sure What to Do, Fashion Management Is Too Risky”

Many students feel uncertain after a bachelor’s degree in communication, business, arts, or humanities. Fashion may seem like a niche or unstable choice. But the reality is: fashion management is one of the most interdisciplinary and future-proof paths you can take.

At IIFM, we welcome students from a variety of backgrounds. Whether you studied marketing, design, economics, or even philosophy, fashion management helps you build concrete skills — from strategic thinking to teamwork, from branding to digital tools — that are valuable in and beyond the fashion industry.

In short, it’s not a fallback option. It’s a strategic step toward a career that blends creativity, business, and purpose.

So, Why Choose Fashion Management at IIFM?

Because we don’t just teach theory. We train the next generation of managers to lead the future of fashion — with strong academic foundations, real-world experiences, and a network of industry partners.

If you’re curious about fashion but want a path that’s smart, serious, and future-oriented, this could be your next step.

Explore our Masters and Courses in Fashion Business, Fashion Business, Luxury Management, Communication Management e Brand Management.