3 answers
Christopher’s Answer
In short, the answer is both. The fashion industry will not take you seriously without some sort of education or, if you are lucky enough to get into the industry, a lot of experience working in the fashion industry.
Education aside, if you just begin to design and create fashion clothing and/or accessories, the fastest and best way to get discovered is via social media, websites, and internet marketing. If you network well enough, you can even have your products displayed on other fashion websites and even on other clothing retail sites. Either way, the internet is the way of the present and the foreseeable future.
Derrick Nguyen
Derrick’s Answer
What are your current projects at the moment? Are you taking any internships with small local designers? There's no exact science to becoming a well known and famous in the fashion world; however, those that have reached this status have devoted a huge part of their lives pursuing their passion. These individuals, eat, sleep, and dream their passions. They are constant students learning everything there is about the craft. Becoming famous is just something that happens as an added bonus. Would these individuals care if their passions didnt leave them to fame? You have to think about the end goal - is it to become famous or to hope that your passions will lead you to fame?
Yvonne’s Answer
1. **Academic Education:**
- **Structured Learning:** Fashion-focused schools and programs offer you structured learning, industry insights, and practical skills, tailored to your chosen fashion speciality.
- **Building Connections:** Universities serve as excellent platforms to forge relationships with lecturers, peers, and industry insiders who can support your career progression.
- **Resource Availability:** You'll have access to facilities like workshops, studios, and specialized tools that can nurture your creative and technical growth.
2. **The Digital World:**
- **Virtual Presence:** Establishing a robust virtual presence via social media, personal websites, or blogs can help you exhibit your work and style to a worldwide audience.
- **Digital Networking:** Social media channels like LinkedIn, Instagram, and Twitter offer avenues to engage with fashion trendsetters, designers, and professionals.
- **Showcasing Your Portfolio:** The internet allows you to effortlessly share your portfolio, fashion designs, or creations, enabling potential clients, employers, or partners to recognize your talent.
Ideally, merging both strategies can yield significant results:
- **Education + Digital World:** Earning a fashion-centric degree while actively cultivating an online presence can boost your credibility, keep you abreast of industry trends, and foster valuable connections. Your digital footprint can act as a showcase of your work and a networking platform.
- **Practical Experience:** Securing real-world experience through internships, part-time roles, or freelance gigs is vital. Hands-on experience can enhance your academic knowledge and digital presence.
- **Networking:** Participate in fashion events, conferences, and trade fairs, alongside engaging with professionals on social media. Personal connections can unlock opportunities in the fashion realm.
Remember, the fashion industry is fiercely competitive, so tenacity and a robust work ethic are key. Building a reputation requires time, irrespective of the route you take, so remain patient and steadfast in your pursuit of your goals.