Smashing stereotypes: Vinay paves the way as a future leader in the fashion business

Huge congratulations to Vinay Doal (OW 2018) on the recent completion of his master's degree in Fashion Business Management at Westminster University.  

Vinay first studied the BA (Hons) Fashion Buying Management with Professional Experience, before completing the MA Fashion Business Management course.

After completing his A Levels in Chemistry, Physics and History, Vinay took a gap year to explore further career pathways. After exploring a range of pathways, Vinay decided that a degree in the business of fashion was definitely the way forward for him.

In an interview with our Head of Careers, Miss Kailey, Vinay describes his career journey into fashion leadership so far.

What employment opportunities have you had in the fashion industry?

I have worked as an Allocation Analyst at the TK Maxx Head Office. I was in charge of 254 stores across Europe for men’s denim items and trousers. My job was to work with buyers and allocate stock to all European stores. If you visited any of the European TK Maxx outlets whilst I was Allocation Analysts, the men’s stock in those stores will have been chosen by me. I was fully responsible for the lot- the shapes, designs and colours of men’s garments, as well as implementing strategies to maximise sales in menswear across all European stores. This experience significantly enhanced my analytical skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of the intricate logistics behind getting products to market.

A great thing about working in the fashion business, is that all skills gained are transferrable. I now find myself working for Clarendon Fine Art as an Assistant Merchandiser. As part of this role, I manage the daily allocation of art work in 90+ galleries across the UK, balancing pieces from emerging artists with renowned names like Damien Hirst and Banksy. My role involves assessing the performance of galleries and artists, optimising the selection of art to enhance sales and create the most visually appealing displays.

What is the best thing about working in fashion?

No two days are the same! You see different things, work with a vast array of people in a variety of roles; it really enables you to see the wealth of opportunities in fashion. Whilst working for TK Maxx, I enjoyed taking business trips to the stores across Europe to look at stock, consumer reaction and competitors within the area.

What barriers have you faced and how did you overcome them?

I am grateful to have incredibly supportive parents, but being a male within the South Asian community, I of course have received the typical comments about going into the fashion industry, but I chose not to care about what they think and stayed true to myself and my own career aspirations.

In addition, the fashion industry itself can be difficult to start in. It has been essential to build a good network of people to get a way in, and University is the perfect place to do this. I encourage all University students, regardless of who you are, to start networking with the fellow students on your course and approach your university careers department for any upcoming careers events or support you can access. Building positive relationships with your lecturers is essential, as they are industry experts.

You really have to shine and get yourself out there. My way of doing this was creating my own brand of streetwear in 2022. I was upcycling denim and creating my own clothing line. This enabled me to showcase a portfolio of work at interviews.

What advice do you have for our young, aspiring fashion professionals?

Just do it! The more you let everyone stop you, the less happy you’re going to be in the long run. Start to experiment with clothing and start considering who or what inspires you from within the fashion industry.

What’s next for you?

I’m currently working on growing my own brand, whilst in employment at Clarendon Fine Art. In the long run, I see myself doing some travelling, before returning to the London Fashion scene.

Huge congratulations from all at WGS on the successful start of your career in Fashion Business Management. We look forward to seeing you grow and progress within this sector.

Any students wanting to connect with Vinay should book a virtual call in our Development Office.