What do you do if your mentor in the fashion design field is taking credit for your work?

1 Assess Intent

Before confronting the situation, take a step back and assess whether your mentor's actions were intentional or a misunderstanding. In the fast-paced fashion industry, where ideas flow freely, it's possible that your mentor may not have realized they were overstepping. Consider the context in which your work was presented and whether there might have been an oversight. It's important to give the benefit of the doubt initially, but also to be clear about your contributions to any collaborative work.

3 Communicate Concerns

When you're ready to address the issue, do so in a calm and professional manner. Request a private meeting with your mentor and express your concerns clearly without assigning blame. Use specific examples of instances where you felt your work was not properly credited. Effective communication is key in the fashion industry, where collaborations and mentorships are common; it's important to resolve misunderstandings amicably whenever possible.

5 Protect Your Work

Going forward, take proactive steps to protect your work. This could include registering designs where possible or sharing your work with a trusted colleague for accountability. In the world of fashion design, your creativity is your currency, and safeguarding it should be a top priority. Establish clear boundaries with mentors and colleagues to prevent future misunderstandings.

6 Plan Next Steps

Finally, consider your future with the mentor or organization. If your concerns are repeatedly dismissed or the behavior continues, it may be time to seek opportunities elsewhere. The fashion industry is vast and filled with professionals who will value and respect your work. Remember that your talent is your strongest asset, and there are many paths to success in fashion design.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?