Guest Talk at Leeds Arts University: Why Fashion Careers Need Flexibility and Digital Skills

Earlier this year, I had the pleasure of giving an industry talk at Leeds Arts University, speaking with fashion students about the realities of working in this industry, and how technology is reshaping the way we design, develop, and think about fashion.

One of the key points we discussed was the fact that a career in fashion rarely follows a straight line. It evolves. It shifts. And often, it takes unexpected turns. What matters is how you adapt, stay curious, and continue learning along the way.

Want to go deeper into the education side of this? I’ve since explored whether fashion education is keeping pace with the mix of creative, technical and digital skills the industry now needs.
Read: Is Fashion Education Keeping Pace with the Skills Industry Now Needs?

Keeping Up with Change

The pace of change in fashion technology is fast. Tools like CLO3D aren’t just optional extras anymore, they’re becoming a core part of how products are designed, sampled, and presented. Whether you’re aiming to work in design, development, or technical roles, having a good understanding of 3D is increasingly important.

We looked at how 3D design is already transforming industry workflows: speeding up development, improving communication between teams, and giving designers more creative freedom, all while helping to reduce material waste. It’s not about replacing traditional skills, but building on them with digital tools that support better outcomes.

Related reading: I returned to this careers conversation in my talk with UKFT and Caramel Rock, looking at the range of routes available across fashion and textiles and how students can prepare for a changing industry.
Read: Discover Your Future in Fashion & Textiles

A Great Response from the Students

What stood out to me most was the enthusiasm and openness of the students. They asked thoughtful questions, were genuinely engaged with the possibilities, and seemed keen to explore where digital skills could take them. That kind of mindset is essential for future-proofing your career in any creative industry, fashion included.

Looking Ahead

It was a real pleasure to be invited to speak, and I want to thank Leeds University for creating space for these conversations. Supporting the next generation of designers is something I care deeply about, and it’s always encouraging to see how forward-thinking students are when it comes to sustainability and innovation.