Fashion Merchandising

Focus on the business side of fashion. Fashion merchandisers strategize the best way to advertise and sell clothes. They identify trends, track inventory, and look for ways to increase profits. They have a deep understanding of the fashion industry, from product development to merchandising textile and apparel products.  

Study Abroad: Paris 

The study abroad program takes place for two weeks in June and focuses on the luxury fashion industry. For information, contact Marine.Aghekyan@csulb.edu. 

Study Abroad: Italy 

The study abroad program takes place in January and June. It focuses on manufacturing and retailing fashion in Italy. For information, contact Marine.Aghekyan@csulb.edu.

  • Retail Buyer
  • Manufacturer’s Representative
  • Product Designer / Pattern Maker
  • Store Operations Manager
  • Stylist / Fashion Coordinator / Fashion Director
  • Textiles Testing & Evaluation Specialist
  • Fashion Product Developer
  • Costumer
  • Visual Display Manager / Merchandiser

Outlook 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of purchasing managers, buyers, and purchasing agents is projected to grow 7 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.

Median Annual Wages 

  • Buying and Purchasing Agents: $84,360 CA, $71,950 US
  • Purchasing Managers: $159,470 CA, $136,380 US
  • Retail Buyer: $59,300 CA
  • Store / Retail Operations Manager: $155,170
  • Fashion product developer: $94,000 CA
  • Fashion Event Planner: $69,280 CA
  • Global Supply Chain Manager: $119,250 CA
  • Social Media Specialist / Strategist: $100,040 CA
  • Fashion Marketing / Branding / Public Relations Specialist: $87,770 CA
  • E-commerce Manager: $102,840 CA

Other jobs:

  • Fashion Stylist / Fashion Coordinator / Fashion Director / Personal Shopper
  • Visual Display Manager / Merchandiser
  • Fashion Trend Forecaster
  • Sustainable Fashion Specialist / Consultant

  • Business skills: Fashion merchandisers are passionate about fashion and have a deep understanding of the fashion industry. They should know how to efficiently set budgets, establish prices, and direct teams. 
  • Communication skills: Fashion merchandisers must be able to communicate the vision of the clothing line. They must also be able to give clear instructions. 
  • Leadership abilities: Fashion merchandisers must form strong working relationships with their team. This may include motivating staff, resolving conflicts, and dealing with customer-related problems. 
  • Decision-making skills: Fashion merchandisers must make informed and timely decisions when choosing apparel they think will sell.