Fashion Portfolio Checklist

A checklist to work through before submitting a portfolio to a fashion school. Each school sets its own requirements, so the official portfolio brief always comes first.

• Read the school’s portfolio requirements in full
• Note the format: PDF, online link or physical
• Note any page, file-size or project limits
• Note whether specific tasks or themes are set
• Note the deadline and the submission method

• Projects that show range and a clear point of view
• Research and inspiration behind each project
• Sketchbook pages and development work
• Final outcomes: finished garments, illustrations or photography
• Drawing and observation work
• Technical work such as flats, pattern cutting or construction, where relevant
• Material and textile experiments
• A short note on each project: the idea, the process and the result

• Consistent layout and typography
• Clear order that tells a story
• Pages readable at a small size on screen
• Contact details on the cover or first page
• File name and size within the limits set
• No duplicate or weak pieces

• Someone else has read through it
• The PDF or link opens on another device
• A backup copy is saved
• Submitted before the deadline