Internships

Professional experience is an essential part of a Dominican University fashion education. Every fashion design and merchandising student completes at least one internship for academic credit before graduation.

Students are encouraged to begin exploring opportunities by the end of their sophomore year, allowing time for multiple internships before completing their degree. The more closely an internship aligns with a student’s career interests, the greater its potential to lead to future employment.

Dominican students secure internships with global brands, independent designers, fashion houses, showrooms, production companies, PR firms, and retailers throughout Chicago and beyond.

How to Find an Internship

  • Explore listings on Dominican’s Career Programs and Employer Relations
  • Connect with faculty mentors who maintain strong industry partnerships
  • Take initiative and reach out directly to fashion companies, boutiques, and creative agencies.
  • Apply to our Study Away Internship Program in New York City, offered in partnership with Kent State University

“This summer, I interned with Zzazz Productions, a full-service fashion and event production company in Oak Brook, IL, where I gained hands-on experience across multiple parts of the industry. I supported backstage operations for numerous runway shows, assisting with model preparation, rapid changes, lineup management, and garment organization. This strengthened my ability to stay calm, organized, and communicative under pressure. In addition to backstage work, I contributed to production planning and creative strategy, including assisting with the development of a strategic plan and designing print advertisements. I also worked on creating social media content, producing recap videos, behind-the-scenes content, and collaborative posts that boosted engagement, sparking a deeper interest in digital storytelling within the fashion industry. This internship strengthened my content creation, design, and problem-solving skills while reinforcing my passion for a career that blends fashion-focused social media, creative direction, and hands-on event experience."
–Ellery Shea, Fashion Design

“My internship at Zzazz Productions allowed me to take knowledge obtained in the classroom and apply it to a hands-on-experience. Working at a fashion production company gave me an opportunity to work trade shows, Fox News segments and fashion shows. From creating inventory spreadsheets, working on social media, pulling clothes for shows, and dressing models backstage; I am more confident and experienced in my career choice.” 
–Elena Defeo-Romanucci, Fashion Merchandising

“Being an intern at Puma NA allowed me to exemplify knowledge from my classes into my work. I was able to construct, meet project deadlines, and help execute visuals of big name celebrities at Puma.” 
–Joselyn Ramos, Fashion Merchandising

Resources

Build your network, meet industry professionals and other emerging talent at fashion events, and stay up-to-date on industry news with the following resources:

Chicago Fashion Community 

Apparel Industry Board, Inc. (AIBI)
The official delegate agency of the City of Chicago, supporting the sewn products industry. AIBI provides resources, mentorship, advocacy, and workforce development programs for Illinois-based fashion businesses and emerging designers. 

Fashion Group International (Chicago)
Global network connecting fashion professionals across design, retail, media, and marketing. The Chicago chapter hosts panels, networking events, and mentorship opportunities for emerging talent. 

Curio
A Chicago-based organization dedicated to nurturing emerging fashion designers and creative entrepreneurs. The Curio provides studio spaces, mentorship, and collaborative programs that connect local talent with industry professionals and resources to grow sustainable, independent brands. 

Chicago Fashion Coalition
A Chicago-based non-profit supporting the local fashion community through resources, events, and talent development. 

CS Modern Luxury
Luxury lifestyle magazine spotlighting Chicago fashion, art, and design. Publishes seasonal trend reports and features on regional tastemakers. 

Sustainable Fashion Week Chicago
Annual event and community platform promoting sustainability in the Midwest fashion industry. Features local designers, panels, and exhibitions focused on ethical and circular fashion practices. 

Chicago Fashion Vanguard
A creative studio and event platform spotlighting Chicago’s independent designers and fashion community. Banjo hosts exhibitions, pop-ups, and collaborative projects that blend fashion, art, and culture while supporting local talent.

Fashion Industry News 

WGSN
Global trend forecasting leader providing insight into consumer behavior, color, and design direction. Access available through the Dominican University library. 

Women’s Wear Daily (WWD)
The industry’s foremost source for global fashion, retail, and beauty news. Offers insights into market trends, brand strategies, and emerging designers.

The Business of Fashion (BoF)
Global authority on fashion business and innovation. Provides in-depth analysis, industry reports, and breaking news covering design, retail, sustainability, and technology trends. 

WindowsWear
A leading visual merchandising and retail design platform showcasing global window displays, in-store environments, and brand experiences. Offers trend insights, inspiration, and a digital archive for students, designers, and marketing professionals.