Fashion isn't just a major – it's a passion. My survey of 250 aspiring fashion professionals revealed a surprising truth: over 54% weren't studying fashion at all. Icons like Virgil Abloh and Rihanna built empires without fashion degrees. What matters is your creativity and determination, not what's written on your diploma. Today's industry values your vision and voice more than ever before. If you love fashion, you already belong here – no permission slip required.

Money: the ultimate fashion startup roadblock. When I asked 250 fashion students what's stopping them from launching their dream brands, 40% pointed to funding challenges. As one put it, "When there isn't enough money, creativity can be limited." I'm testing crowdfunding, pre-orders and grants with Sim de la Mode to solve this catch-22: needing money to start, but needing something to show to get money.

In my survey of 250 aspiring fashion professionals, nearly 30% identified "how to build a brand" as their most desired skill—above marketing, finding suppliers, and financial management. A strong brand isn't just a logo—it's the foundation that guides every decision you make. That's why brand building sits at the core of Sim de la Mode.