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John
Student
Albany, New York
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How to become a fashion designer?
I want to know about it
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4 answers
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, John !
There are different ways to become a fashion designer so I will touch upon what is needed and you can explore further. Much information about this is on the internet and you can obtain information also by interacting with fashion schools.
To be a fashion designer, you will have to know how to draw and sketch, sew, make patterns, know sizing and fabrics, work with different fabrics, create unique styles, be a trend setter and have a good knowledge of marketing and strong presentation skills. You will also need a portfolio of your work. This can all be obtained by going to Fashion School. The work is very time consuming and it is a competitive, high energy field of work, so you must emphasize your ability to be innovative and resilient and work well with others.
My advice is that if you are still in high school, you can start out by working on school shows as a costumer. Get used to the costume changes and specific wardrobe of the performers. You can even volunteer to make some of the costumes. That would be a good first step. After high school, I would highly recommend going to fashion school in New York City which is a little over 150 miles for you.
There are 17 fashion schools in your state, most noted ones being in New York City. The tuition is on the lower side but still expensive and living in NYC is quite expensive, too. Marist College, which is 81 miles from you, has a Fashion Program, but read their website for tuition costs. It's a private college and probably expensive.
If you want to get a good experience but not spend a lot of money for tuition or living expenses, look into your local community colleges and explore how extensive their costume courses are. You can always take marketing classes as well.
So I would advise exploring colleges and fashion websites on line, watching fashion videos on You Tube and get first hand knowledge by being out there doing it. All of it will become real to you if that is where your passion is. If you are just curious, than reading and watching presentations on line will help you greatly answer your questions. You will need skill, talent, creativity, education, experience and a network of professional contacts for this career.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you well !
There are different ways to become a fashion designer so I will touch upon what is needed and you can explore further. Much information about this is on the internet and you can obtain information also by interacting with fashion schools.
To be a fashion designer, you will have to know how to draw and sketch, sew, make patterns, know sizing and fabrics, work with different fabrics, create unique styles, be a trend setter and have a good knowledge of marketing and strong presentation skills. You will also need a portfolio of your work. This can all be obtained by going to Fashion School. The work is very time consuming and it is a competitive, high energy field of work, so you must emphasize your ability to be innovative and resilient and work well with others.
My advice is that if you are still in high school, you can start out by working on school shows as a costumer. Get used to the costume changes and specific wardrobe of the performers. You can even volunteer to make some of the costumes. That would be a good first step. After high school, I would highly recommend going to fashion school in New York City which is a little over 150 miles for you.
There are 17 fashion schools in your state, most noted ones being in New York City. The tuition is on the lower side but still expensive and living in NYC is quite expensive, too. Marist College, which is 81 miles from you, has a Fashion Program, but read their website for tuition costs. It's a private college and probably expensive.
If you want to get a good experience but not spend a lot of money for tuition or living expenses, look into your local community colleges and explore how extensive their costume courses are. You can always take marketing classes as well.
So I would advise exploring colleges and fashion websites on line, watching fashion videos on You Tube and get first hand knowledge by being out there doing it. All of it will become real to you if that is where your passion is. If you are just curious, than reading and watching presentations on line will help you greatly answer your questions. You will need skill, talent, creativity, education, experience and a network of professional contacts for this career.
I hope this is helpful and I wish you well !
I appreciate this, thank you for the advice.
Bryanna
You are most welcome !
Michelle M.
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
Dear John,
Guide to Embarking on a Fashion Design Career
Embarking on a fashion design career is an exhilarating journey filled with creativity, requiring a blend of innate talent, education, experience, and tenacity. Here's a roadmap to help you navigate towards a successful career in fashion design:
1. Acquiring Education and Training:
Obtain a Degree: A significant number of fashion designers hold a bachelor's degree in fashion design or a related subject like fashion merchandising or fine arts. Formal education equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in this field.
Join a Fashion Design School: Think about joining a recognized fashion design school or program to understand design principles, textiles, pattern-making, sewing techniques, and the history of fashion.
Accumulate Experience: Internships or apprenticeships with seasoned designers or fashion houses offer invaluable practical experience and aid in building a professional network.
2. Cultivating Your Skills:
Creativity: Fashion design is a creative realm that demands a robust sense of style, uniqueness, and innovation. Nurture your creativity by exploring various styles, colors, and materials.
Technical Skills: Acquiring technical skills such as pattern-making, sewing, draping, and garment construction is crucial for a thriving career in fashion design.
Attention to Detail: Precision in your work and attention to detail can distinguish you as a proficient designer.
3. Assembling Your Portfolio:
Build a Robust Portfolio: Your portfolio is a showcase of your finest work, reflecting your design aesthetic and skills. Incorporate sketches, illustrations, photographs of garments you've designed, and any other pertinent projects.
Establish an Online Presence: In the digital era, an online portfolio or website can help you connect with a broader audience and draw potential clients or employers.
4. Keeping Up-to-date and Networking:
Stay Informed about Trends: Stay abreast of the latest fashion trends, technologies, and industry advancements to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving fashion world.
Networking: Participate in fashion events, shows, and industry meetups to connect with other professionals. Building relationships can pave the way for collaborations or job opportunities.
5. Kick-start Your Career:
Begin with Entry-Level Positions: Starting your career with entry-level roles such as assistant designer, design assistant, or pattern-maker can help you gain industry experience.
Freelancing: Freelancing or working independently can offer you the flexibility to work on diverse projects and establish your reputation.
Launch Your Brand: If you possess a unique vision and aspire to start your own fashion label, meticulously plan your brand identity, target audience, production process, and marketing strategy.
By adhering to these steps and persistently refining your skills and creativity, you can progress towards becoming a successful fashion designer in the vibrant world of fashion.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA): The CFDA is a premier organization in the American fashion industry, offering resources, support, and guidance for budding designers.
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT): FIT, located in New York City, is a distinguished college for design, fashion, art, communications, and business. It offers a variety of programs related to fashion design.
Vogue Business: Vogue Business is a trusted source for news and insights into the global fashion industry, featuring trends, analysis, interviews with industry professionals, and more.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Guide to Embarking on a Fashion Design Career
Embarking on a fashion design career is an exhilarating journey filled with creativity, requiring a blend of innate talent, education, experience, and tenacity. Here's a roadmap to help you navigate towards a successful career in fashion design:
1. Acquiring Education and Training:
Obtain a Degree: A significant number of fashion designers hold a bachelor's degree in fashion design or a related subject like fashion merchandising or fine arts. Formal education equips you with the essential skills and knowledge to thrive in this field.
Join a Fashion Design School: Think about joining a recognized fashion design school or program to understand design principles, textiles, pattern-making, sewing techniques, and the history of fashion.
Accumulate Experience: Internships or apprenticeships with seasoned designers or fashion houses offer invaluable practical experience and aid in building a professional network.
2. Cultivating Your Skills:
Creativity: Fashion design is a creative realm that demands a robust sense of style, uniqueness, and innovation. Nurture your creativity by exploring various styles, colors, and materials.
Technical Skills: Acquiring technical skills such as pattern-making, sewing, draping, and garment construction is crucial for a thriving career in fashion design.
Attention to Detail: Precision in your work and attention to detail can distinguish you as a proficient designer.
3. Assembling Your Portfolio:
Build a Robust Portfolio: Your portfolio is a showcase of your finest work, reflecting your design aesthetic and skills. Incorporate sketches, illustrations, photographs of garments you've designed, and any other pertinent projects.
Establish an Online Presence: In the digital era, an online portfolio or website can help you connect with a broader audience and draw potential clients or employers.
4. Keeping Up-to-date and Networking:
Stay Informed about Trends: Stay abreast of the latest fashion trends, technologies, and industry advancements to remain competitive in the rapidly evolving fashion world.
Networking: Participate in fashion events, shows, and industry meetups to connect with other professionals. Building relationships can pave the way for collaborations or job opportunities.
5. Kick-start Your Career:
Begin with Entry-Level Positions: Starting your career with entry-level roles such as assistant designer, design assistant, or pattern-maker can help you gain industry experience.
Freelancing: Freelancing or working independently can offer you the flexibility to work on diverse projects and establish your reputation.
Launch Your Brand: If you possess a unique vision and aspire to start your own fashion label, meticulously plan your brand identity, target audience, production process, and marketing strategy.
By adhering to these steps and persistently refining your skills and creativity, you can progress towards becoming a successful fashion designer in the vibrant world of fashion.
Top 3 Credible Sources Used:
Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA): The CFDA is a premier organization in the American fashion industry, offering resources, support, and guidance for budding designers.
Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT): FIT, located in New York City, is a distinguished college for design, fashion, art, communications, and business. It offers a variety of programs related to fashion design.
Vogue Business: Vogue Business is a trusted source for news and insights into the global fashion industry, featuring trends, analysis, interviews with industry professionals, and more.
Stay Blessed!
James Constantine.
Luza Rico
Fashion
2
Answers
Portland, Oregon
Updated
Luza’s Answer
Hello John! There are many paths to becoming a fashion designer! One path is what Michelle told you, graduating from high school and then going to Fashion school. Another option is studying something related to fashion, such as business, textiles, art, visual merchandising etc. I became a fashion designer after being in the medical field!
I also know famous fashion designers that started their careers learning from others, watching videos, making small courses and others never went to Fashion School per se.
It all depends on what your interests are! I really recommend you to read about Fashion History, maybe do some research on famous designers and their stories! On Netflix, you can find some shows related to Halston, Gucci, Project Runway, a documentary on the impact of the fashion industry on the planet and the implications of fast fashion.
There’s also innovative design, sustainability and other paths that might interest you, like the business of fashion, so continue to be curious, ask questions and reach out to the community!
I also know famous fashion designers that started their careers learning from others, watching videos, making small courses and others never went to Fashion School per se.
It all depends on what your interests are! I really recommend you to read about Fashion History, maybe do some research on famous designers and their stories! On Netflix, you can find some shows related to Halston, Gucci, Project Runway, a documentary on the impact of the fashion industry on the planet and the implications of fast fashion.
There’s also innovative design, sustainability and other paths that might interest you, like the business of fashion, so continue to be curious, ask questions and reach out to the community!
Irene Smolyanskaya
Designer Creative Draper Educator
23
Answers
Boulder, Colorado
Updated
Irene’s Answer
Hello,
To become a fashion designer, your first step would be to start sketching or making clothing. By sketching I don’t mean necessarily drawing with a pencil but perhaps using one or the other drawing apps, or editing photos of existing garments, or creating three-dimensional mock-ups of your vision.
It’s very useful to get some basic sewing skills, too. Then, you could shop at some second-hand clothing stores, and use the elements of existing garments to express your own designs. For example, stitch together the parts and elements of different garments to create something new and unique.
Training yourself to express your creative ideas is crucially important.
When you get a number of such ideas clearly expressed (one way or another) you could start compiling them to create a portfolio of your work. It could be a collection of sketches or a collage of photographs, or a combination of both. Having a portfolio, no matter how small or even messy, would make your college application that much more substantial.
I hope this helps. Good luck with your studies!
To become a fashion designer, your first step would be to start sketching or making clothing. By sketching I don’t mean necessarily drawing with a pencil but perhaps using one or the other drawing apps, or editing photos of existing garments, or creating three-dimensional mock-ups of your vision.
It’s very useful to get some basic sewing skills, too. Then, you could shop at some second-hand clothing stores, and use the elements of existing garments to express your own designs. For example, stitch together the parts and elements of different garments to create something new and unique.
Training yourself to express your creative ideas is crucially important.
When you get a number of such ideas clearly expressed (one way or another) you could start compiling them to create a portfolio of your work. It could be a collection of sketches or a collage of photographs, or a combination of both. Having a portfolio, no matter how small or even messy, would make your college application that much more substantial.
I hope this helps. Good luck with your studies!