- 1). Create a list of noncompeting newspapers, magazines and websites to pitch. Only pitch to one newspaper in each city, and only pitch to one fashion magazine or fashion-based website; publications that have the same readership do not like to run the same material.
- 2). Peruse the publication to be confident that a fashion report is appropriate material for the specific newspaper, magazine or website. For example, a tennis magazine would most likely not be interested in a report on the latest runway styles, unless you were specifically discussing tennis fashions. Likewise, a financial publication would probably only consider your report if it discusses the business of fashion, rather than the clothes or accessories.
- 3). Read the writers' guidelines for each publication that you will be pitching to know its specific requirements. The writers' guidelines are usually posted on each publication website and will tell you the type of material that it is looking for along with how to submit it, such as through e-mail or post.
- 4). Write a query letter, which is like a cover letter and tells the editors who you are, what you write about and that you would like your reports to run in their publication. Keep the query letter short and to the point. Highlight any successes that you may have experienced, such as that you tripled your readership in the last six months.
- 5). Send your query letter out to the publications along with three samples of your fashion report. Include a link to your website or blog, where the editors will be able to read additional samples if they so choose. Submit the pitch according to the writers' guidelines; do not mail if they requested e-mail, and vice versa.
- 6). Follow up with the editors in one to two weeks after submitting your pitch. Try both e-mailing and calling, since editors can be tough to reach. Be professional, and leave several days to one week in between attempts to contact the editor.
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