With the long term sustainability of the NZ Fashion Industry in mind and providing opportunity to up and coming talent, at JH we are proud to offer an intensive two week paid internship program to individuals who have a passion for working within our industry.
The program involves going behind-the-scenes, and getting an insight into the departments and people who contribute to the success of the Juliette Hogan brand.
We chatted to Ella, our 2021 summer intern, about her experience and thoughts on her time in the program.
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Tell us 3 interesting facts about yourself.
I’m based in Auckland and have always had a love for fashion. I finished school in 2020 with the top result in the country for the Materials Technology NCEA Scholarship. After having the amazing opportunity to intern with Juliette Hogan, I now work part-time for JH as a part of their retail team!
What are you currently studying?
I am currently in my second year of Bachelor of Design at AUT, majoring in fashion design and minoring in creative entrepreneurship (business), and so far, I am loving it!
Why did you want to apply for the paid internship program with Juliette Hogan and what were you hoping to gain?
The opportunity to experience the behind scenes of running a truly successful NZ fashion brand, at the top of its game, was too good to pass up! I also really resonated with Juliette Hogan's sustainable ethos and timeless designs, they don’t play heavily into trends but rather create a beautiful capsule-style wardrobe with quality fabrics where everything works well together and stands the test of time.
What is the most interesting thing you have learnt during your time at Juliette Hogan, and any new skills, techniques or knowledge?
One of the most interesting things for me was understanding Juliette’s design process, from the initial stages of choosing fabrics through to the completed collection. Getting to talk with Louise, their graphic designer, who has been designing majority of Juliette Hogan’s prints for many years, was an especially valuable experience. It was very interesting learning about all the new projects JH is starting and the idea of continuous improvement to the way the business operates. My time in this program showed me that JH actively works towards creating the change that they want to see.
Were there any surprises during your experience?
Getting to speak one on one with Juliette herself was a great surprise for me! What a privilege! To hear first-hand about how she got her start was so inspirational. Getting the chance to speak to the creative director and founder is not always an experience that interns typically get. However, it is definitely a reflection of how much Juliette Hogan values wanting to impart knowledge to the future generations that are coming up through the industry.
Would you recommend this internship to other students? Why or why not?
I would truly recommend this internship to other students, whether you are interested predominantly in fashion design or more into the business and marketing side of fashion, this opportunity covers it all. They offer different role insights and real-world experience of what it’s like working for a leading NZ brand and business.
How has this internship helped you for your future studies and career?
Coming closer to the end of your degree can feel quite daunting, especially if you feel like you aren’t aware of what the next step is. This internship has really helped my awareness of jobs out there within the fashion industry and given some shape to my future career aspirations. It has helped my understanding of how garments have to be constructed and finished at a high level which I can apply to my current studies. It has also taught me a lot about how to show leadership within a business and the mindset and values that can help me to succeed. This internship was also a great benefit to my current career pathway, as I have now become a part time retail stylist in the Juliette Hogan Britomart store!
What is your advice for future JH interns?
Bring a pen and notebook, prepare questions in advance and don't be afraid to ask lots of them! Fully immerse yourself in the experience for the 10 days and put every effort into it, because you will get as much out of it as you put in!
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Applications are currently open for our next JH Short-term Paid Internship, starting 20 February 2023. If you are interested in the program and would like to find out more or apply, please click here. Applications close at the end of September.