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A graphic design graduate of Central Saint Martins, “studying everything from filmmaking, illustration, photography,” Ben Cobb began his writing career in film journalism and occasionally wrote for fashion titles. Some of his first interviews were with designers John Galliano, Jean Paul Gaultier and Diane von Furstenberg.
“I’m interested in people,” the fashion editor said on LinkedIn Live last week. “Being a filmmaker or a fashion designer or a novelist is not much different.”
Cobb joined Dazed Media’s another person, where he worked for ten years, published in 2019 after 4 years as editor-in-chief. Then he joined the publication of an influential style of writing Love As Associate Editor in early 2020 before helping to launch Perfect magazinea creative community and content platform with the former Love Her colleague Katie Grand. Joined in 2021. Night routine As an additional lifestyle and culture publication producer, ES magazine.
Now, BoF Careers shared insights and practical tips on building a career in fashion with Ben Cobb last week.
How did you start working in the fashion industry?
It was never my plan. I tried everything to get rid of it for a long time. I grew up with many friends and some family working in fashion, but from the beginning my two main passions were writing and film. I started writing about movies, which is a natural way to combine the two interests.
I am interested in people. So whether it’s a filmmaker or a fashion designer or a novelist, I don’t really care. So I was writing about film for some style magazines and that was, “Do you go and ask the designers?” It turned out to be. And suddenly he gathered many different elements.
How did you get started as a writer?
[I did] Very early interviews with designers [like] John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier, I had a wonderful day around London with Diane von Furstenberg. […] I never [felt] Especially being star struck or intimidated by older characters. I think, if anything, it probably helped that I was a little more naive because I asked for things that maybe you shouldn’t.
Learn to say no. The main part of the job is what you don’t include, filtering down to what you do want.
In those early experiences, research is key. [I would] Do a lot of serious research […] And get a good idea in my head, to build a character study, I think about what that person is like. Then it always – and my favorite thing about interviewing people – goes out the window too early. […] You need that kind of research behind you to be able to release it.
What core skills do writers and editors need to work in fashion?
It is as old as the hills, but writers must respect deadlines. […] I went from making a magazine twice a year to one week straight, and you need it [take a] About deadlines.
Learn to say no. A large part of the work [is] You have to know how to communicate what you don’t include, filtering down to what you want to say, and that means a lot of rejection and rejection and not accepting things professionally and carefully.
What advice would you give to young writers for publication?
Too often, we’re all pulling the same net in many ways and looking at the same stories. I think people can relate to the idea of original stories, and that’s really important, but sometimes it’s about telling a familiar story or what we all want, at this point. [and] Telling in a special way – in your way.
Each magazine has a very different approach. Don’t be mad at everyone you know. Do your research, find out exactly what topics to cover [and] What magazines do you like to read? Their goal [and think] Where you want to see your work published and your stories told. Focus on them and look at different publications – titles mean slightly different things.
Spend some time to find out who the right person is [and] Just reach out. There are also key roles — managing editors or assistant editors — reach out and don’t be afraid to ask who is the best person to send this to, or let them point you in the right direction. It’s not just one shot – you want that first access to actually connect and count.
What does your daily routine look like?
It really keeps me on my toes – everyday is different. [Today,] I’ll finish writing something. […] Then running around town, checking out some places for some events, signing some video content for social film clips – every day is full of surprises.
The fun part of it – and the challenge – is wearing all these different hats. I think what I love about it the most is that it puts me into a much wider range of arenas than any other place I’ve ever been.
What are you looking for in junior talent today?
Being creative and being able to be a little looser with things. Things go fast. Before, I was doggedly dogged, pursuing something to the bitter end, sometimes knowing when to let things go. You can return to it. Sometimes that hyper-focused perspective can be harmful in a way – it’s a powerful energy, but to me, being a little more fluid with things is very healthy in this media landscape.
Where do you see the future of fashion media heading?
The main thing is always about the story and quality. The way things are developing, it’s impossible to know what those new platforms will be [and] What will be new ways to connect with your audience?
Sometimes that hyper-focused perspective can be harmful in a way – it’s a powerful energy, but for me, being a little fluid is very healthy in this media landscape.
[But] I think nothing has changed. It’s still about telling great stories, shooting amazing images – that’s what the job has always been about. It’s really interesting how that connects and how you find your audience. How many options there are now — who knows what will be available in two years. I find that interesting because it changes the way you think about what you’re doing. I think it’s a technical thing, and that’s a way to find your audience. Basically, the heart remains.
What do you think are the necessary skills to work in fashion?
Resilience. [Fashion is] Hard, but recognizes talent. Just move on and realize your worth. Be true to yourself. Hold fast to those two things – your worth and what you are about. Just keep going until you enter. It’s an amazing industry for recognizing new, exciting talent and fostering that. It’s worth it. […] There are holes and find gaps you can fill. There is room for everyone. You just need to identify the area you want.
Get it Editorial and media Roles on BoF Careers Today:
Deputy Editor, Burberry – London, United Kingdom
Copywriter, Gantt – Stockholm, Sweden
Copywriting Manager, Tory Burch – New York, United States
Content Editor, Chico – Florida, United States
China Editor, Fashion Business – China
Disclaimer: This interview has been edited and supplemented for clarity.
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