4 answers
Zaire
Student
Toledo, Ohio
1
Question
Asked
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What do I need to be successful in the fashion industry?
I'm 13 in the 8th grade and trying to start my own clothing brand.
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4 answers
Steve Benton
Senior Multimedia Tech | Game Artist
2
Answers
Henderson, Nevada
Updated
Steve’s Answer
Hi Zaire.
I'm not into fashion but I used to create my own airbrushed t-shirt designs when I was about your age and I sold them to friends.
Please take everything I say with a grain of salt as I wasn't ever successful in the fashion industry. However, my approach may help you achieve success in anything you do.
1. Be innovative! (Why would anyone want your designs over what they can already purchase at another store? Are your items cheaper? Are they higher quality, or better looking? Make people care about wearing your stuff. Are the designs interesting or currently topical?)
2. OK. You've designed an eye-catching logo. Now what? - Plaster that sucker everywhere and anywhere...but especially on your clothing. Build your brand. People need to know about it before they buy it.
3. Promote, promote, promote your brand (see #2). I've spoken with marketing people at Cirque d' Soleil and they've told me that 50% of their project budget goes into advertising and promotion to sell tickets to their shows. Back in the late 1980s, the Simpsons TV show was promoted so strongly that people were tired of seeing Bart on everything, in every store, they went to. But what TV show is still around today? The Simpsons.
4. Find someone who already has an audience and possibly give them free samples of your work. Under Armour got where they are because the creator worked tirelessly selling his innovative (for the time) shirts out of his car at stadiums. But he really hit paydirt when his professional athlete friend started wearing the shirt and sharing what made it so great. He told other professional athletes and when Georgia Tech bought 10 shirts. That's where things started to pick up. Under Armour was valued at 2.98 Billion dollars when this was written. Go to the Under Armour Wikipedia page for the whole story.
TL;DR:
1. Make a great product, either on the cheap or with higher quality materials and innovative designs.
2. Promote your work until everyone YOU know is sick of it, but everyone you don't; buys it!
3. Wear your clothing EVERY DAY, EVERYWHERE! If people start asking you where you got it, that's when you know it's a sick design.
4. Look for partnerships with companies or people to get more people to see your designs.
Good luck. Now go get your brand launched. You can do this!
I'm not into fashion but I used to create my own airbrushed t-shirt designs when I was about your age and I sold them to friends.
Please take everything I say with a grain of salt as I wasn't ever successful in the fashion industry. However, my approach may help you achieve success in anything you do.
1. Be innovative! (Why would anyone want your designs over what they can already purchase at another store? Are your items cheaper? Are they higher quality, or better looking? Make people care about wearing your stuff. Are the designs interesting or currently topical?)
2. OK. You've designed an eye-catching logo. Now what? - Plaster that sucker everywhere and anywhere...but especially on your clothing. Build your brand. People need to know about it before they buy it.
3. Promote, promote, promote your brand (see #2). I've spoken with marketing people at Cirque d' Soleil and they've told me that 50% of their project budget goes into advertising and promotion to sell tickets to their shows. Back in the late 1980s, the Simpsons TV show was promoted so strongly that people were tired of seeing Bart on everything, in every store, they went to. But what TV show is still around today? The Simpsons.
4. Find someone who already has an audience and possibly give them free samples of your work. Under Armour got where they are because the creator worked tirelessly selling his innovative (for the time) shirts out of his car at stadiums. But he really hit paydirt when his professional athlete friend started wearing the shirt and sharing what made it so great. He told other professional athletes and when Georgia Tech bought 10 shirts. That's where things started to pick up. Under Armour was valued at 2.98 Billion dollars when this was written. Go to the Under Armour Wikipedia page for the whole story.
TL;DR:
1. Make a great product, either on the cheap or with higher quality materials and innovative designs.
2. Promote your work until everyone YOU know is sick of it, but everyone you don't; buys it!
3. Wear your clothing EVERY DAY, EVERYWHERE! If people start asking you where you got it, that's when you know it's a sick design.
4. Look for partnerships with companies or people to get more people to see your designs.
Good luck. Now go get your brand launched. You can do this!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6342
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Dear Zaire,
To be successful in the fashion industry, there are several key elements you should focus on as a young entrepreneur starting your own clothing brand:
Passion and Creativity: Fashion is an art form, and your passion and creativity will be the driving force behind your brand. Developing a unique style and staying up-to-date with current trends can help set your brand apart from competitors.
Business Knowledge: Understanding the business side of fashion is crucial for success. This includes marketing, sales, finance, and operations. Researching industry trends, target markets, and competition can help you make informed decisions about your brand’s direction.
Networking: Building relationships with industry professionals, suppliers, manufacturers, and other fashion designers can open doors to opportunities and collaborations that can help grow your brand. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with others in the fashion community.
Quality Production: Ensuring high-quality production is essential for customer satisfaction and repeat business. Researching manufacturing processes, materials, and labor costs can help you make informed decisions about where to produce your clothing line while maintaining quality standards.
Marketing and Branding: Effective marketing and branding strategies are crucial for attracting customers to your clothing line. Utilizing social media platforms, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertising campaigns can help build awareness for your brand and generate sales.
Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service is essential for retaining customers and building a loyal following. Responding promptly to inquiries, addressing any issues or concerns efficiently, and providing a seamless shopping experience can help ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Adaptability: The fashion industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay adaptable to changing trends and consumer preferences. Being open to feedback from customers and industry experts can help you pivot when necessary to keep your brand relevant and competitive in the marketplace.
Education: Continuously learning about the fashion industry through formal education or self-study can help you develop the skills necessary to succeed as a fashion entrepreneur. Consider taking courses in fashion design, merchandising, marketing, or business management to gain a solid foundation in the field.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
To be successful in the fashion industry, there are several key elements you should focus on as a young entrepreneur starting your own clothing brand:
Passion and Creativity: Fashion is an art form, and your passion and creativity will be the driving force behind your brand. Developing a unique style and staying up-to-date with current trends can help set your brand apart from competitors.
Business Knowledge: Understanding the business side of fashion is crucial for success. This includes marketing, sales, finance, and operations. Researching industry trends, target markets, and competition can help you make informed decisions about your brand’s direction.
Networking: Building relationships with industry professionals, suppliers, manufacturers, and other fashion designers can open doors to opportunities and collaborations that can help grow your brand. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and engage with others in the fashion community.
Quality Production: Ensuring high-quality production is essential for customer satisfaction and repeat business. Researching manufacturing processes, materials, and labor costs can help you make informed decisions about where to produce your clothing line while maintaining quality standards.
Marketing and Branding: Effective marketing and branding strategies are crucial for attracting customers to your clothing line. Utilizing social media platforms, influencer partnerships, and targeted advertising campaigns can help build awareness for your brand and generate sales.
Customer Service: Providing excellent customer service is essential for retaining customers and building a loyal following. Responding promptly to inquiries, addressing any issues or concerns efficiently, and providing a seamless shopping experience can help ensure customer satisfaction and repeat business.
Adaptability: The fashion industry is constantly evolving, so it’s important to stay adaptable to changing trends and consumer preferences. Being open to feedback from customers and industry experts can help you pivot when necessary to keep your brand relevant and competitive in the marketplace.
Education: Continuously learning about the fashion industry through formal education or self-study can help you develop the skills necessary to succeed as a fashion entrepreneur. Consider taking courses in fashion design, merchandising, marketing, or business management to gain a solid foundation in the field.
GOD BLESS YOU!
JC.
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1920
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Zaire !
Although I am happy to give you some advice, I cannot give you an answer about your own personal success. That would come in time and everyone takes a different path towards realizing their dream.
Part of your question is what would you need and you also want to create your own clothing line. It's best to start now because while you are the age you are, it will give you a strong foundation as time moves on. While in school, take anything that has to do with sewing and an art class that requires sketching and drawing. What you'll need now is access to a sewing machine, sketch books, a fashion design software, materials such as fabrics, buttons, zippers, thread, etc. Start creating. Also think of a name for your brand and make or have made some labels to sew in your garments. Also make tags that would be attached to the garment. Through high school, continue to take classes that require you to sew. Seriously consider going to a fashion school once you graduate high school. School will provide you with a lot of information and contacts and you will be required to work on projects which will provide you with feedback and accountability. Fashion school will give you the "know-how" that doing it on your own may not provide.
Everything and anything you make should be documented as photos, the actual item, or in a video and begin a portfolio of your work. Have some friends model your styles and photograph them. Ask around at different venues about doing fashion shows as you can gain strong experience to show on a resume. If you have any free time, offer to do alterations for people for a very small fee. This will be a great way to earn some money and additionally, for the resume, you can state that you do freelance alterations.
In the fashion world, like so many other careers, networking, contacts and consistent drive can make a world of difference. Don't get discouraged. It's an opinion business and some people will love your work and some won't, but that's okay because you'll always have those who are interested in your creativity and new ideas.
I hope that this has helped and I wish you all the best !
Although I am happy to give you some advice, I cannot give you an answer about your own personal success. That would come in time and everyone takes a different path towards realizing their dream.
Part of your question is what would you need and you also want to create your own clothing line. It's best to start now because while you are the age you are, it will give you a strong foundation as time moves on. While in school, take anything that has to do with sewing and an art class that requires sketching and drawing. What you'll need now is access to a sewing machine, sketch books, a fashion design software, materials such as fabrics, buttons, zippers, thread, etc. Start creating. Also think of a name for your brand and make or have made some labels to sew in your garments. Also make tags that would be attached to the garment. Through high school, continue to take classes that require you to sew. Seriously consider going to a fashion school once you graduate high school. School will provide you with a lot of information and contacts and you will be required to work on projects which will provide you with feedback and accountability. Fashion school will give you the "know-how" that doing it on your own may not provide.
Everything and anything you make should be documented as photos, the actual item, or in a video and begin a portfolio of your work. Have some friends model your styles and photograph them. Ask around at different venues about doing fashion shows as you can gain strong experience to show on a resume. If you have any free time, offer to do alterations for people for a very small fee. This will be a great way to earn some money and additionally, for the resume, you can state that you do freelance alterations.
In the fashion world, like so many other careers, networking, contacts and consistent drive can make a world of difference. Don't get discouraged. It's an opinion business and some people will love your work and some won't, but that's okay because you'll always have those who are interested in your creativity and new ideas.
I hope that this has helped and I wish you all the best !
Jennifer Jackson
Film Director
79
Answers
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jennifer’s Answer
Hi Zaire,
It's great to see your passion for fashion at such a young age. Here are some additional ideas and tips to help you get started in the fashion industry:
1. Develop your skills: If you have a talent for drawing or sewing, continue to hone these skills. Practice designing clothes and creating pieces for your friends and family. This will not only help you improve your craft but also build a portfolio of your work.
2. Attend workshops: Look for fashion workshops or classes in your hometown. These can provide valuable insights and guidance on different aspects of the fashion industry, from design to production.
3. Organize a fashion show: Consider putting together a mini fashion show with your friends and family. This can be a fun way to showcase your designs and get feedback from others. You could even turn it into a charity event and donate the proceeds to a cause you care about.
4. Research: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the fashion industry. Follow fashion blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to get inspiration and ideas for your designs.
5. Explore fashion schools: As you progress in your education, consider looking into fashion schools or programs that can help you further develop your skills and knowledge in the field.
6. Utilize YouTube: YouTube can be a valuable resource for learning about fashion design, styling, and industry trends. There are many tutorials and videos available that can provide helpful tips and advice for aspiring fashion designers.
Remember, starting a clothing line requires hard work, dedication, and creativity. Keep exploring your passion for fashion and don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Good luck on your fashion journey!
Best regards,
Jennifer
It's great to see your passion for fashion at such a young age. Here are some additional ideas and tips to help you get started in the fashion industry:
1. Develop your skills: If you have a talent for drawing or sewing, continue to hone these skills. Practice designing clothes and creating pieces for your friends and family. This will not only help you improve your craft but also build a portfolio of your work.
2. Attend workshops: Look for fashion workshops or classes in your hometown. These can provide valuable insights and guidance on different aspects of the fashion industry, from design to production.
3. Organize a fashion show: Consider putting together a mini fashion show with your friends and family. This can be a fun way to showcase your designs and get feedback from others. You could even turn it into a charity event and donate the proceeds to a cause you care about.
4. Research: Stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the fashion industry. Follow fashion blogs, magazines, and social media accounts to get inspiration and ideas for your designs.
5. Explore fashion schools: As you progress in your education, consider looking into fashion schools or programs that can help you further develop your skills and knowledge in the field.
6. Utilize YouTube: YouTube can be a valuable resource for learning about fashion design, styling, and industry trends. There are many tutorials and videos available that can provide helpful tips and advice for aspiring fashion designers.
Remember, starting a clothing line requires hard work, dedication, and creativity. Keep exploring your passion for fashion and don't be afraid to take risks and try new things. Good luck on your fashion journey!
Best regards,
Jennifer