3 answers
Jess
Student
Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
1
Question
Updated
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What should I choose?
Hi, my name is Jess. I have a dilemma, I don't know whether to choose between #Fashion design or architecture. I love to #design but I am worried it does not pay a lot, on the other hand I don't really love #architecture as much as design but it pays more money. I want a career that I love but also pays. I am confused.
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3 answers
Laura Lucas
A University Architect
9
Answers
Indianapolis, Indiana
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Jess, I wish I knew how long til you have to decide because you need to learn more and talk to more people about both of these design professions. I say that because working as an architect is not that much different than the way Santiago describes fashion design. You also start as a support person and most architecture firms have a few designers at the top doing most of the design and making most of the money. But also you need to think about what is “good money” to you - as almost all design professions pay less than other business type jobs - mostly because us creative types work more for the love of design and being creative than only for the money. And lastly, in architecture you are working/creative for the approval of a specific client and a specific situation but fashion is design first without a specific client and then lots of people buy it... so maybe also think about who u want to design for.
Laura recommends the following next steps:
Santiago Delgado
Fashion Designer
2
Answers
Updated
Santiago’s Answer
As a fashion designer, I can completely understand your trouble and can tell you that you're absolutely right. Although I can't really speak about how easy or hard might be to get jobs as an architect, as a fashion designer you'll find it especially hard if you don't live in a metropolis.
Capital cities and major global cities usually host most of the biggest studios and brands, and also give away the biggest number of jobs in that area.
I'm obviously speaking in general terms, but getting a good position in which you can grow and get notice will, at some point, moving to a big city.
There's also the subject that, most people think studying design means you'll be a creative, which realistically just makes about 20% of all the jobs in the industry.
Of my class of graduates, only 5 people in a group of 40 ended up working in creative fashion directly, not including the ones that moved out of fashion entirely.
Until now the whole thing looks kinda grim, but all creative careers start like this.
Once you actually manage to create things, and you see them on the shelves of retailers, worn by people on the street or plaster in a billboard it an amazing feeling. Really rewarding, even if it takes you a few years of just doing technical sheets, production follow up or just measurement and tracking jobs.
I think is a career that magazines and movies glamorize a lot, excluding that in reality fashion is a lot of work and not that many spontaneous bursts of creativity in between cocktail parties and late brunches.
I love working in the industry, but job hunting for it is a nightmare if not in the right place.
You will find it though, so don't worry about thinking you won't be able to pay the rent. There are jobs but expect to start working on something that might not be creative at first.
Capital cities and major global cities usually host most of the biggest studios and brands, and also give away the biggest number of jobs in that area.
I'm obviously speaking in general terms, but getting a good position in which you can grow and get notice will, at some point, moving to a big city.
There's also the subject that, most people think studying design means you'll be a creative, which realistically just makes about 20% of all the jobs in the industry.
Of my class of graduates, only 5 people in a group of 40 ended up working in creative fashion directly, not including the ones that moved out of fashion entirely.
Until now the whole thing looks kinda grim, but all creative careers start like this.
Once you actually manage to create things, and you see them on the shelves of retailers, worn by people on the street or plaster in a billboard it an amazing feeling. Really rewarding, even if it takes you a few years of just doing technical sheets, production follow up or just measurement and tracking jobs.
I think is a career that magazines and movies glamorize a lot, excluding that in reality fashion is a lot of work and not that many spontaneous bursts of creativity in between cocktail parties and late brunches.
I love working in the industry, but job hunting for it is a nightmare if not in the right place.
You will find it though, so don't worry about thinking you won't be able to pay the rent. There are jobs but expect to start working on something that might not be creative at first.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6183
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Jess!
Considering Factors in Choosing Between Fashion Design and Architecture
Jess, you are facing a common dilemma that many people encounter when choosing a career path - balancing personal passion with financial stability. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each career option and consider the factors that are most important to you.
Fashion Design:
Passion: Fashion design is an industry that allows you to express your creativity and design skills. If you truly love fashion and have a passion for creating unique and stylish clothing, this career path could be incredibly fulfilling for you.
Financial Stability: While fashion design can be a lucrative career, it is important to note that it may not pay as well as architecture. However, there are opportunities for success in this field, such as starting your own fashion line or working for a reputable fashion brand.
Job Market: The fashion industry is constantly evolving, which means that there is always room for growth and innovation. As a fashion designer, you can work in various roles, such as designing clothing, creating textiles, or even teaching fashion design.
Architecture:
Financial Stability: Architecture is known for being a well-paying career, which could be a significant factor in your decision-making process. As an architect, you can earn a good income and have job security.
Passion: While you may not have the same level of passion for architecture as you do for fashion design, it is still a creative field that allows you to design and create structures that have a lasting impact on the world.
Job Market: The architecture industry is also constantly changing, with new technologies and sustainable practices being developed. As an architect, you can work on various projects, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, or even urban planning.
In conclusion, the most important factor in choosing between fashion design and architecture is determining which career aligns more closely with your passions and values. If financial stability is your top priority, architecture may be the better choice. However, if you are more passionate about fashion and design, it is worth considering the potential challenges and rewards that come with pursuing a career in this industry.
Authoritative Reference Titles:
Forbes - “The Best Jobs of 2021: Fashion Designer and Architect Ranked”
This source provides an overview of the job market and financial stability for both fashion design and architecture, helping you make an informed decision based on career prospects.
US News & World Report - “Best Design Jobs” and “Best STEM Jobs”
These sources offer a comprehensive ranking of various job industries, including fashion design and architecture, as well as insights into the job market and salary expectations.
Occupational Outlook Handbook - “Fashion Designers” and “Architects”
This authoritative resource from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed information on job duties, education requirements, and employment outlook for both fashion design and architecture careers.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
[BECAUSE HE CAN AND WILL]
James Constantine.
Considering Factors in Choosing Between Fashion Design and Architecture
Jess, you are facing a common dilemma that many people encounter when choosing a career path - balancing personal passion with financial stability. It is essential to weigh the pros and cons of each career option and consider the factors that are most important to you.
Fashion Design:
Passion: Fashion design is an industry that allows you to express your creativity and design skills. If you truly love fashion and have a passion for creating unique and stylish clothing, this career path could be incredibly fulfilling for you.
Financial Stability: While fashion design can be a lucrative career, it is important to note that it may not pay as well as architecture. However, there are opportunities for success in this field, such as starting your own fashion line or working for a reputable fashion brand.
Job Market: The fashion industry is constantly evolving, which means that there is always room for growth and innovation. As a fashion designer, you can work in various roles, such as designing clothing, creating textiles, or even teaching fashion design.
Architecture:
Financial Stability: Architecture is known for being a well-paying career, which could be a significant factor in your decision-making process. As an architect, you can earn a good income and have job security.
Passion: While you may not have the same level of passion for architecture as you do for fashion design, it is still a creative field that allows you to design and create structures that have a lasting impact on the world.
Job Market: The architecture industry is also constantly changing, with new technologies and sustainable practices being developed. As an architect, you can work on various projects, such as residential homes, commercial buildings, or even urban planning.
In conclusion, the most important factor in choosing between fashion design and architecture is determining which career aligns more closely with your passions and values. If financial stability is your top priority, architecture may be the better choice. However, if you are more passionate about fashion and design, it is worth considering the potential challenges and rewards that come with pursuing a career in this industry.
Authoritative Reference Titles:
Forbes - “The Best Jobs of 2021: Fashion Designer and Architect Ranked”
This source provides an overview of the job market and financial stability for both fashion design and architecture, helping you make an informed decision based on career prospects.
US News & World Report - “Best Design Jobs” and “Best STEM Jobs”
These sources offer a comprehensive ranking of various job industries, including fashion design and architecture, as well as insights into the job market and salary expectations.
Occupational Outlook Handbook - “Fashion Designers” and “Architects”
This authoritative resource from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics provides detailed information on job duties, education requirements, and employment outlook for both fashion design and architecture careers.
Don't forget to read my autobiography, paying attention to the foods that provide all the essential nutrients for effective studying. You might discover that you can accomplish twice as much academic work in half the time. Your performance in exams and assignments could also improve, especially if your diet has significantly improved. Replenishing missing nutrients can do wonders.
GOD BLESS YOU,
[BECAUSE HE CAN AND WILL]
James Constantine.