Stores Seek Teens With Fashion Yean

Tue., March 11, 1997

Shanna Southern Peterson Correspondent

For many young women, the idea of working in the fashion world sounds glamorous and exciting. They dream of being models, buyers or designers.

While most will not achieve worldwide recognition for their creations nor earn millions of dollars posing for magazine covers, numerous high school and college women embark every year upon interesting and fulfilling careers in the clothing industry.

Two great opportunities to learn more about fashion exist in the Spokane area for young women during their senior year of high school.

The Bon Marche and Nordstrom sponsor programs designed to give participants an inside look at the fashion world - from merchandising and sales to special events and promotions.

The BP Fashion Board at Nordstrom and the Bon Marche’s High Board are each made up of area high school students.

Throughout the school year, representatives participate in monthly seminars on such topics as various career opportunities in retailing, promotion, planning, display, advertising and modeling.

Board members also hear guest speakers from the local fashion industry address the latest trends and current fashion topics.

What do the stores look for when choosing board members? According to Mary Jean Stephens, spokeswoman for The Bon Marche and a former High Board representative, “We want well-rounded girls. They should have at least a 3.0 grade point average (of a possible 4.0) and show an interest in community involvement through volunteer activities. What we are not looking for are models.”

Alli Sweet of Nordstrom agrees: “Physical attributes are low on our list of requirements. We want board members of all shapes and sizes. We look for girls with enthusiasm and a willingness to participate.”

If you are a young woman who will be a high school senior in September and are interested in learning more about a career in the fashion industry, consider applying for one of these positions.

For information on The Bon’s High Board, call 626-6085. Applications will be accepted from March 31 to May 2.

To apply for the Nordstrom BP Fashion Board, call 455-6111, ext. 1570. Applications will be accepted through April 5.

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