Career Advice

Where my degree took me: QUIZ fashion designer Emma Kenyon

Whatuni was welcomed into the office of Emma Kenyon – a leading fashion designer at QUIZ – to discuss what her career has been like after graduating...

Michelle Roberts
by Michelle Roberts
Last Updated:
28 Feb 2024

For some, working for a brand recognised across the globe is a pipe dream. For Emma Kenyon, that dream became a reality when she began working for QUIZ – a retailer for both menswear and womenswear with a phenomenal presence online, several stores across the UK, and entities in Spain and America.

Fan of Devil Wears Prada? We are too – and Emma is literally the non-fictional version of Miranda Priestly. But nicer of course. And she loves a good collection of sequin dresses – which makes her our new best friend!

If you’re studying fashion or want to make waves in the industry, this is the girl boss that you should be looking up to and we have all the deetz you’re dying to know...  

When did you first join the team at QUIZ?


It’s been a while looking back! I’ve been at QUIZ for around five years now – I guess time flies when you’re having fun.

It’s interesting how I got to work here actually... I’ve always respected QUIZ as a brand and how it influenced my fashion choices when I was younger, so I rang up the HQ and told them that I thought I would make a great addition to their team. Even though there were no positions available, I secured two interviews and did a huge presentation in front of the decision makers!

What is your ritual once entering the HQ?


I can’t go without my coffee fix on a morning, and once I’ve got that, I find out what has been doing well in sales. This is really important from a design perspective, because once we know the type of items of customers want, we can tailor future products to those specifications!

What takes up most of your day?


I do a lot of research, and I love it – it’s good to see what luxury brands are doing and how we could incorporate their ideas for our customers. It’s important to strike a balance between affordability and the latest trends so that our customers can always have an up-to-date wardrobe at a low cost while not compromising on the quality of our garments. 

What do you like most about being a fashion designer?


Undoubtedly, the best part of my job is seeing my designs sell in stores. I love scrolling on Instagram and seeing lots of people wearing the dresses I have designed on their nights out!

Your role must be very creative, where do you get inspiration from?


Believe it or not, Instagram is one of my main sources of inspiration. I absolutely love it! As well as bigger brands and catwalks!

Is there a formula to being a great fashion designer?


You can’t become a fashion designer without having an interest in the industry. You’ll need a lot of motivation, the ability to pick commercial trends and be able to know your customers like the back of your hand!

What did you study to become a fashion designer?


No matter where you are or what you want to do in the future, you should always do your best in school. I did GCSEs and A-levels in textiles, then moved on to an art and design course at college where I specialised in fashion. Then, I went to university for four years and got my fashion design degree!

What advice would you give to someone who wants to become a fashion designer?


Experience. Experience. Experience! Before QUIZ, I completed an internship at House of Holland in the lead up to London Fashion Week where I learnt pattern cutting. As well as this, I also worked in John Lewis’ head office as an intern where I learnt CAD design skills.

Take as many opportunities as you can – it will look great on your CV!


Great advice there Emma! Are you looking for a career in fashion? Search fashion degrees here.

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