Looking to land your next role in fashion design, technical development or production? Whether you're a recent graduate or a seasoned professional, interview prep can make or break your chances of securing your dream job.
At Four Seasons Recruitment, we interview candidates across the fashion industry daily. From junior designers to senior production managers. What's more, we receive direct feedback from clients after their interviews with our candidates, so we know exactly what hiring managers are looking for. Here’s how you can stand out in your next interview and approach it with confidence.
How to Answer the Classic Opening Question
One question that almost always comes up early is: “Tell me a little bit about your background and previous experience.”
This might seem straightforward, but it’s where many candidates fall flat. Your goal here is to summarise your most recent and most relevant experience in a clear, concise and engaging way. Focus on projects, brands, or collections that align with the role you’re applying for. Avoid rambling or going too far back — keep it relevant and highlight your unique value.
Common Fashion Interview Questions by Specialism
Design Interviews
If you're interviewing for a design role, whether womenswear, accessories, or textiles, be prepared to speak creatively and confidently about your style and influences. Some frequently asked questions include:
How would you describe your handwriting style?
Can you walk me through your portfolio and your main inspirations?
Which designer do you look up to, and why?
Why do you want to work for our brand?
Tip: Practice talking through your portfolio aloud. The way you articulate your process and inspiration is just as important as the visuals.
Technical and Production Interviews
For technical development, garment technology, or production roles, interviews are often more process-led and practical. Expect questions such as:
Can you talk me through your development process from concept to final product?
What materials and fabrics have you worked with extensively?
How strong is your experience in quality control and fit amendments?
Why are you interested in our brand and how do you see yourself contributing?
Tip: Be specific. Mention the types of factories you’ve worked with, systems you’re familiar with (e.g., PLM, Gerber, Illustrator), and any efficiency improvements you've implemented.
The Power of Your Questions
It’s not just about answering well — it’s also about showing curiosity and enthusiasm. Candidates who ask thoughtful questions often leave a lasting impression.
Here are a few great questions to ask your interviewer:
How is the team structured and what’s the size of the department?
What is the long-term vision for the brand, and how would this role contribute to it?
How many collections do you launch each year?
Do you show at Fashion Weeks such as London or Paris?
What systems and tools do you use internally for design, sampling, or production?
Tip: Don’t ask questions for the sake of it — choose two or three that feel natural and genuinely important to you.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re interviewing for a fashion designer, garment technologist, or production coordinator role, preparation is key. Take time to understand the brand, tailor your portfolio or CV to the role, and practice articulating your experience with clarity and confidence.
Need help preparing for interviews in the fashion industry? Get in touch with our recruitment team. We’re here to help you put your best foot forward and land that perfect role.
