What should I major in if I want to be a fashion designer?

Hi Jaymes,

I think that it's great that you want to be a teacher. That is a great profession and we need more great and inspiring teachers in the world. It's also good to hear that you're keeping your options open and are curious about learning other possible vocations.

In general, fashion as a major is primarily offered at art schools and won't be as available at more traditional schools. But it might be a bit more difficult to pursue a teaching curriculum at art schools. What I would recommend would be to pursue an undergraduate degree towards teaching, but taking elective classes (or a double major or a minor) in art. Even if your university doesn't offer fashion specifically, an art degree will give you the tools and foundation necessary to pursue future schooling in fashion if you find that's where your passion is.

I actually did something similar. At UC Berkeley, I received my degree in integrative biology while taking a couple of art classes here and there. After graduating, I decided to look into pursuing art further and eventually completed my Master of Fine Arts degree and now work as a professional illustrator. And even though I ended up in art, I still find that I enjoyed my undergraduate experience and learned a great deal in that course of study.

I hope this helps. Good luck!

Hello Jaymes,

It's always good to figure out what college you would like to attend before thinking about courses because some colleges, like art schools such as MICA do not offer business classes. If you want to solely be a designer, consider going to an art school or a university with a great design program. It's always good to go to a school that specifically has a fashion design/illustration major. However, it is always good to expand outside of your major and take other courses. Maybe take a textile course, or a fabric manipulation course. If you want to major in business, consider taking creative courses in Graphic design. Branding and typography will help your business have a distinct flare to it.

Hi Jaymes,
You could also practice working on your own creations now. If you practice now when you start school you will have a few basic skills. I also sew and know the joy of completing various projects. Fashion Design is mainly offered within art schools, but the great thing about art is that you can do it whenever you choose. School just helps us fine tune and become better. If you choose to go to school for teaching do not think it is your final and only option. I also have a friend that sews in her spare time and does fashion shows at church or school and offers coupons to friends and family if they want to place orders. It is her passion even though she just got her masters in psychology.