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Fashion design can be a lucrative career if you’re passionate and skilled at your job. After interviewing several noted designers in the area, we composed a short guide for all of you thinking of taking the plunge!
Develop Your Skills
Designing and creating apparel requires many skills, of the most obvious, the necessity to be able to sew or at least be able to work a sewing machine. I actually purchased a machine and some fabric online, then watched online tutorials during a random DIY phase.
You’ll also need to understand fabrics and how they move when worn.
Research existing designers and learn from them. How did they make it in the industry? You should also be good at researching current trends and creating storyboards/moodboards. This will take hours of practice but it’ll be worth it!
Learn as Much as Possible
First and foremost you need to learn the ins and outs of the fashion industry. Getting a diploma in fashion design is one way to do this. If you don’t want to go to school, you could always apply for an internship. However, you will need a great portfolio.
Which Clothing Niche Would You Like to Work In?
There are many different niches you can select, so it is a good idea to have an idea of what direction you’d like to take your career in. You could design lady’s evening wear, menswear, children’s clothing, or sports gear – you have a lot of options!
Don’t Neglect the Business Side of Things
The business side of things is very important. You need to be familiar with marketing techniques and how to get word of your brand out there. You can do this with both offline and online marketing techniques. You will also need to know your audience, and never lose sight of who they are. How much do they want to spend? What do they like? What don’t they like? Always keep them in mind.
Create a Portfolio
You will need an impressive portfolio in order to get anywhere in this industry. Put it together like it’s your pride and joy!
Good luck in your fashion design career – I hope you end up where you want to be!
Are any of you on the cusp of beginning a career in fashion?
XOXO