Plum Sykes, the lifestyle blogger and former assistant to Anna Wintour, has sparked a renewed debate on unpaid internships in the creative industries. Despite her renowned status and a burgeoning Substack platform boasting over 20,000 followers, Sykes has come under fire for relying on student interns who receive no compensation for their contributions. This controversy highlights ongoing concerns about fair pay and the accessibility of opportunities in the fashion sector.
An Unpaid Reality
Sykes, who has earned her place in the fashion world and is often said to have inspired a character in *The Devil Wears Prada*, is using her platform to engage with a growing audience. Her Substack, which includes personal anecdotes and insights into her life, is supported by a team of interns who work without pay. Among her posts, Sykes has even shared stories about lavish gifts received from these interns, including Hermès gloves worth up to £1,000.
Critics are questioning the ethics of her practices, particularly as she operates in an industry that has long been scrutinised for its treatment of interns. The fashion world has a history of exploiting young talent, and Sykes’ tactics have only reignited the conversation about the necessity of fair compensation for work.
Interns in a Legal Grey Area
Sykes maintains that her interns are engaged in voluntary work, asserting that they gain valuable experience and course credits for their efforts. However, employment law stipulates that unpaid internships are only lawful under specific conditions, such as when they are part of a student’s course requirements or involve solely shadowing professionals. The distinction between legitimate internships and exploitative unpaid positions remains a contentious issue, particularly as many interns reportedly undertake significant tasks that would typically warrant compensation.
In the past, Sykes’ employer, Condé Nast, faced a substantial settlement for underpaying interns, highlighting the industry’s problematic reliance on unpaid labour. Sykes has expressed frustration over the lack of formal internship opportunities at Condé Nast, lamenting that bureaucracy has eliminated such positions altogether.
Voices of Dissent
The conversation surrounding unpaid internships has gained traction, with industry experts and advocates voicing their concerns. Sophie Sajnani, who advises young people on career paths, emphasised the importance of fair compensation, noting that unpaid roles can perpetuate discrimination and limit opportunities for those from less privileged backgrounds. Similarly, Carl Cullinane from the Sutton Trust pointed out that unpaid internships increasingly serve as a barrier to entry in competitive fields.
Union representatives have echoed these sentiments, with Paul Nowak of the TUC calling for legislative measures to prohibit unpaid work in all forms. He highlighted that it is often young people from working-class backgrounds who bear the brunt of these exploitative practices, further entrenching economic disparities.
Sykes’ Defence
In her defence, Sykes described her interns as students gaining crucial experience rather than formal employees, emphasising the casual nature of their work. She reflected on the challenging job market for media roles, explaining that many applicants were eager for any opportunity, even if it meant working for free. Sykes has expressed hope that she could eventually compensate her interns, though she has yet to commit to a timeline for such changes.
As the debate over unpaid internships continues, Sykes finds herself at the centre of a complex issue that resonates deeply with many in the creative industries. Her situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggles faced by young professionals navigating the often murky waters of entry-level positions.
Why it Matters
The discourse surrounding unpaid internships is not merely about Plum Sykes; it speaks volumes about the broader landscape of creative industries and the barriers that persist for aspiring professionals. With an increasing focus on equitable practices, the treatment of interns has far-reaching implications for diversity, inclusion, and the future of the workforce. As discussions gain momentum, it is crucial that industry leaders, like Sykes, take proactive steps to ensure fair compensation, fostering an environment where talent is nurtured and valued, regardless of background.
