4 answers
Finley
Student
Elk River, Minnesota
3
Questions
Asked
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What are some good tips for people who are beginners wanting to go into fashion design?
So, I want to possibly go into fashion design, and I just don't know the overview or where to basically start. Is there anything I really need to know before I get super into this career? Is there any tips that anyone can give me?
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4 answers
Savita Acharya (US)
IT Analyst
16
Answers
Cleveland, Ohio
Updated
Savita’s Answer
Hi Finley,
Embarking on a journey into the realm of fashion design is thrilling yet intimidating. To kickstart a successful career in this field, you need a mix of creativity, technical know-how, and business savvy. With constant learning, networking, and dedication, you can pave your way to success in the fashion world. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you make a splash in the fashion industry:
1. Self-Education
Formal Education: Think about joining a fashion design course or program at a well-known institution to build your foundational knowledge and skills.
Online Learning: Plenty of online courses and tutorials can teach you fashion design basics, sewing, and pattern making.
Reading: Stay updated on trends and techniques by reading fashion design books and magazines.
2. Skill Enhancement
Artistry: Improve your drawing and sketching skills by practicing fashion designs. Consider taking classes to further hone your abilities.
Sewing: Master sewing and using a sewing machine. Start with easy projects and slowly take up more challenging ones.
Pattern Creation: Learn to create and adjust patterns, a key skill for bringing your designs to life.
3. Industry Insight
Fashion History: Delve into fashion history to comprehend how trends change and the impact of past designers on the industry.
Current Trends: Stay in touch with current fashion trends by following fashion shows, blogs, and social media influencers.
4. Portfolio Creation
Showcase Your Work: Develop a professional portfolio displaying your best designs, including sketches, photos of finished garments, and mood boards.
Digital Presence: Think about creating an online portfolio or website to reach a wider audience.
5. Networking
Industry Events: Participate in fashion shows, trade fairs, and similar events to connect with professionals and gain insights.
Social Media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest to network with other designers, brands, and potential clients.
Internships: Apply for internships or apprenticeships with renowned designers or fashion houses for practical experience.
6. Brand Development
Unique Style: Cultivate a unique style or niche that distinguishes you from other designers.
Brand Identity: Design a logo, business cards, and other branding materials that echo your brand’s identity.
7. Business Basics
Marketing: Grasp the basics of marketing and brand promotion.
Sales and Distribution: Understand different sales channels, including retail, online stores, and wholesale.
Finance: Acquire a basic understanding of budgeting, pricing, and financial management.
8. Persistence
Resilience: Be ready for setbacks in the competitive and challenging fashion industry and remain persistent.
Continuous Improvement: Always strive to enhance your skills and designs. Welcome feedback and constructive criticism.
9. Innovation and Experimentation
Creativity: Dare to experiment with new materials, techniques, and styles.
Sustainability: Think about integrating sustainable practices and materials into your designs, given the increasing demand for eco-friendly fashion.
10. Mentorship
Guidance: Seek a mentor for advice, support, and industry insights.
Apprenticeship: Work with an experienced designer to gain practical experience and learn the nuances of the trade.
11. Technology Utilization
Design Software: Familiarize yourself with fashion design software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CAD programs.
3D Printing: Discover the potential of 3D printing in fashion design for innovative creations.
12. Inspiration
Travel: If feasible, travel to different locations to draw inspiration from various cultures and fashion scenes.
Art and Culture: Visit museums, galleries, and cultural events for inspiration beyond the conventional fashion world.
Embarking on a journey into the realm of fashion design is thrilling yet intimidating. To kickstart a successful career in this field, you need a mix of creativity, technical know-how, and business savvy. With constant learning, networking, and dedication, you can pave your way to success in the fashion world. Here are some beginner-friendly tips to help you make a splash in the fashion industry:
1. Self-Education
Formal Education: Think about joining a fashion design course or program at a well-known institution to build your foundational knowledge and skills.
Online Learning: Plenty of online courses and tutorials can teach you fashion design basics, sewing, and pattern making.
Reading: Stay updated on trends and techniques by reading fashion design books and magazines.
2. Skill Enhancement
Artistry: Improve your drawing and sketching skills by practicing fashion designs. Consider taking classes to further hone your abilities.
Sewing: Master sewing and using a sewing machine. Start with easy projects and slowly take up more challenging ones.
Pattern Creation: Learn to create and adjust patterns, a key skill for bringing your designs to life.
3. Industry Insight
Fashion History: Delve into fashion history to comprehend how trends change and the impact of past designers on the industry.
Current Trends: Stay in touch with current fashion trends by following fashion shows, blogs, and social media influencers.
4. Portfolio Creation
Showcase Your Work: Develop a professional portfolio displaying your best designs, including sketches, photos of finished garments, and mood boards.
Digital Presence: Think about creating an online portfolio or website to reach a wider audience.
5. Networking
Industry Events: Participate in fashion shows, trade fairs, and similar events to connect with professionals and gain insights.
Social Media: Utilize platforms like Instagram, LinkedIn, and Pinterest to network with other designers, brands, and potential clients.
Internships: Apply for internships or apprenticeships with renowned designers or fashion houses for practical experience.
6. Brand Development
Unique Style: Cultivate a unique style or niche that distinguishes you from other designers.
Brand Identity: Design a logo, business cards, and other branding materials that echo your brand’s identity.
7. Business Basics
Marketing: Grasp the basics of marketing and brand promotion.
Sales and Distribution: Understand different sales channels, including retail, online stores, and wholesale.
Finance: Acquire a basic understanding of budgeting, pricing, and financial management.
8. Persistence
Resilience: Be ready for setbacks in the competitive and challenging fashion industry and remain persistent.
Continuous Improvement: Always strive to enhance your skills and designs. Welcome feedback and constructive criticism.
9. Innovation and Experimentation
Creativity: Dare to experiment with new materials, techniques, and styles.
Sustainability: Think about integrating sustainable practices and materials into your designs, given the increasing demand for eco-friendly fashion.
10. Mentorship
Guidance: Seek a mentor for advice, support, and industry insights.
Apprenticeship: Work with an experienced designer to gain practical experience and learn the nuances of the trade.
11. Technology Utilization
Design Software: Familiarize yourself with fashion design software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and CAD programs.
3D Printing: Discover the potential of 3D printing in fashion design for innovative creations.
12. Inspiration
Travel: If feasible, travel to different locations to draw inspiration from various cultures and fashion scenes.
Art and Culture: Visit museums, galleries, and cultural events for inspiration beyond the conventional fashion world.
Thanks, Savita! That is really helpful!
Finley
Monica Chibuogwu
Educational Consulting/Counseling
69
Answers
Lagos, Nigeria
Updated
Monica’s Answer
Hi Finley, future fashion designer☺️🧶🧵
I'm beyond thrilled to hear you're interested in fashion design! My daughter is also passionate about design, and it would be amazing to see your creativity shine✨✨✨
Welcome to the incredible world of fashion! As a beginner, you're taking the first step toward an exciting journey. Here are some valuable tips to get you started and make you unique:
☑️Understand the basics: Familiarize yourself with design principles, color theory, textiles, and pattern-making.
☑️Explore different areas: Consider specializations like haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, or sustainable fashion.
☑️Learn industry-standard software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Sketchbook.
☑️Develop your skills: Practice drawing, sketching, and creating prototypes.
☑️Stay updated: Follow fashion trends, designers, and industry events.
☑️Build a strong portfolio: Showcase your designs, sketches, and inspirations.
☑️Network and collaborate: Attend fashion events, join design communities, and partner with peers.
☑️Intern or volunteer: Gain hands-on experience with designers, brands, or fashion houses.
☑️Stay curious and patient: Fashion design requires dedication, persistence, and continuous learning.
☑️Consider formal education: Look into fashion design programs, certificates, or online courses.
Additionally, you will need the following skills
✅Creativity and imagination
✅Attention to detail
✅Communication and teamwork
✅Problem-solving and adaptability
✅Time management and organization
Before You Dive into the world of fashion designing fully, I advice that you:
✨Understand the industry's competitive nature.
✨Be prepared for constructive criticism.
✨Develop a thick skin and resilience.
✨Consider the environmental and social impact
of fashion.
✨Stay true to your unique style and vision.
Below are some inspirational resources that may help you👇
1. Fashion designers: Research icons like Coco Chanel, Alexander McQueen, or Vivienne Westwood.
2. Fashion blogs and podcasts: The Fashion Spot, Fashionista, or The Fashion Podcast.
3. Online courses: Skillshare, Coursera, or Fashion Design Courses on Udemy.
4. Design communities: Behance, Dribbble, or Fashion Design Forum.
5. Social media: Follow designers, brands, and fashion influencers.
Always remember🥳 fashion design is a journey, and it's okay to take your time exploring and learning.
Keep shining✨✨✨, and I wish you all the best in your fashion design adventures☺️
I'm beyond thrilled to hear you're interested in fashion design! My daughter is also passionate about design, and it would be amazing to see your creativity shine✨✨✨
Welcome to the incredible world of fashion! As a beginner, you're taking the first step toward an exciting journey. Here are some valuable tips to get you started and make you unique:
☑️Understand the basics: Familiarize yourself with design principles, color theory, textiles, and pattern-making.
☑️Explore different areas: Consider specializations like haute couture, ready-to-wear, accessories, or sustainable fashion.
☑️Learn industry-standard software: Adobe Creative Suite (Illustrator, Photoshop), Sketchbook.
☑️Develop your skills: Practice drawing, sketching, and creating prototypes.
☑️Stay updated: Follow fashion trends, designers, and industry events.
☑️Build a strong portfolio: Showcase your designs, sketches, and inspirations.
☑️Network and collaborate: Attend fashion events, join design communities, and partner with peers.
☑️Intern or volunteer: Gain hands-on experience with designers, brands, or fashion houses.
☑️Stay curious and patient: Fashion design requires dedication, persistence, and continuous learning.
☑️Consider formal education: Look into fashion design programs, certificates, or online courses.
Additionally, you will need the following skills
✅Creativity and imagination
✅Attention to detail
✅Communication and teamwork
✅Problem-solving and adaptability
✅Time management and organization
Before You Dive into the world of fashion designing fully, I advice that you:
✨Understand the industry's competitive nature.
✨Be prepared for constructive criticism.
✨Develop a thick skin and resilience.
✨Consider the environmental and social impact
of fashion.
✨Stay true to your unique style and vision.
Below are some inspirational resources that may help you👇
1. Fashion designers: Research icons like Coco Chanel, Alexander McQueen, or Vivienne Westwood.
2. Fashion blogs and podcasts: The Fashion Spot, Fashionista, or The Fashion Podcast.
3. Online courses: Skillshare, Coursera, or Fashion Design Courses on Udemy.
4. Design communities: Behance, Dribbble, or Fashion Design Forum.
5. Social media: Follow designers, brands, and fashion influencers.
Always remember🥳 fashion design is a journey, and it's okay to take your time exploring and learning.
Keep shining✨✨✨, and I wish you all the best in your fashion design adventures☺️
Hi Monica, thank you so much for taking time to offer some advice and giving me some inspirational resources, it really helps a lot! Thank you again!
Finley
You're most welcome! I'm happy I could help🤗
Monica Chibuogwu
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1879
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Finley !
This is a marvelous question ! It's great that you are exploring the steps to take for a future career as a fashion designer.
So, you are in Elk River, Minnesota and I am very happy to let you know that Elk River Senior High School carries courses in fashion. You can call them and ask details, but it just may be the school you are attending now. Make an inquiry at the school office for more information. They offer classes in fashion merchandising, design, and textiles, but do contact them for the most current information. I would advise taking all of the fashion classes at your high school. If there are no fashion courses at the high school you attend, inquire about a class or more than one class in Family and Consumer Science (formerly known as Home Economics), a class that focuses on sewing. You can begin right at your high school.
Fashion design is a beautiful blend of drawing, styling and sewing. To begin with, focus on these three elements of the career. Buy a sketch book and try to obtain a sewing machine or find access to one that you can use. And don't forget hand sewing, too ! There are some things you can do by hand as well. You would want to sew everyday and draw everyday, too. Register at a website called Trend Me and style some outfits. You can easily print out pages of your stylings to include in a portfolio. An exciting beginning always includes making the most of the resources that you already have at hand.
The education part is also very important. That's where you will learn about things that you hadn't even thought of up to that point. So I would advise going to Fashion School or to a college that offers Fashion. In your state of Minnesota, there are five places that offer Fashion. These schools are St. Catherine University, Concordia College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, The Art Institutes International Minnesota, and University of Minnesota’s College of Design. I would suggest going to the website of each of these colleges to read about the school and the Fashion program that they offer. Also, if you can visit any one of them sign up for an orientation and tour of the schools which will give you hands on impressions and make it easier for you to decide which college to choose. I would advise obtaining a Bachelors Degree in your field as it is a very popular career with many people possibly applying for the same jobs you would be applying for. The Bachelors Degree would give you an edge but also give you a wealth of knowledge and experience through projects.
I know you feel that you don't know where to start, but you have to begin some time, so now is as good as any. Start styling people - friends, family and make sure to take before and after photos. Sew garments and learn pattern making (resources are online through a search), and focus on designing both clothes and accessories. Now for a lively, exciting experience that you can try - do fashion shows in your town !
How you would do this is first, get one of your like-minded friends who wants to also be a fashion designer or a fashion model and meet to discuss doing the fashion shows. You will need a space to do the shows, so the first step is to arrange it with your school. Next you can contact both social, community services as well as faith based services to see if they would let you do a fashion show at their location. As well, some cafes and restaurants feature fashion shows sometimes, too. You begin your experience by beginning. Be there and do it all at your own pace. Although Elk River's fashion community is not extensive, it is known to be supportive of local artisans. So, go for it ! Innovate and build trends in your community at this time.
I will venture to say that sewing instruction of every kind is available through websites and You Tube videos, so you can spend some time looking for the best online instruction that you like. It's more fun doing than just thinking about it and I hope that this can serve as inspiration for you to begin your journey. Best wishes in all you do and enjoy it every minute of the way !
This is a marvelous question ! It's great that you are exploring the steps to take for a future career as a fashion designer.
So, you are in Elk River, Minnesota and I am very happy to let you know that Elk River Senior High School carries courses in fashion. You can call them and ask details, but it just may be the school you are attending now. Make an inquiry at the school office for more information. They offer classes in fashion merchandising, design, and textiles, but do contact them for the most current information. I would advise taking all of the fashion classes at your high school. If there are no fashion courses at the high school you attend, inquire about a class or more than one class in Family and Consumer Science (formerly known as Home Economics), a class that focuses on sewing. You can begin right at your high school.
Fashion design is a beautiful blend of drawing, styling and sewing. To begin with, focus on these three elements of the career. Buy a sketch book and try to obtain a sewing machine or find access to one that you can use. And don't forget hand sewing, too ! There are some things you can do by hand as well. You would want to sew everyday and draw everyday, too. Register at a website called Trend Me and style some outfits. You can easily print out pages of your stylings to include in a portfolio. An exciting beginning always includes making the most of the resources that you already have at hand.
The education part is also very important. That's where you will learn about things that you hadn't even thought of up to that point. So I would advise going to Fashion School or to a college that offers Fashion. In your state of Minnesota, there are five places that offer Fashion. These schools are St. Catherine University, Concordia College, Minneapolis Community and Technical College, The Art Institutes International Minnesota, and University of Minnesota’s College of Design. I would suggest going to the website of each of these colleges to read about the school and the Fashion program that they offer. Also, if you can visit any one of them sign up for an orientation and tour of the schools which will give you hands on impressions and make it easier for you to decide which college to choose. I would advise obtaining a Bachelors Degree in your field as it is a very popular career with many people possibly applying for the same jobs you would be applying for. The Bachelors Degree would give you an edge but also give you a wealth of knowledge and experience through projects.
I know you feel that you don't know where to start, but you have to begin some time, so now is as good as any. Start styling people - friends, family and make sure to take before and after photos. Sew garments and learn pattern making (resources are online through a search), and focus on designing both clothes and accessories. Now for a lively, exciting experience that you can try - do fashion shows in your town !
How you would do this is first, get one of your like-minded friends who wants to also be a fashion designer or a fashion model and meet to discuss doing the fashion shows. You will need a space to do the shows, so the first step is to arrange it with your school. Next you can contact both social, community services as well as faith based services to see if they would let you do a fashion show at their location. As well, some cafes and restaurants feature fashion shows sometimes, too. You begin your experience by beginning. Be there and do it all at your own pace. Although Elk River's fashion community is not extensive, it is known to be supportive of local artisans. So, go for it ! Innovate and build trends in your community at this time.
I will venture to say that sewing instruction of every kind is available through websites and You Tube videos, so you can spend some time looking for the best online instruction that you like. It's more fun doing than just thinking about it and I hope that this can serve as inspiration for you to begin your journey. Best wishes in all you do and enjoy it every minute of the way !
I'm so very grateful that you took the time to research my area and some classes that I could take. Sadly, I don't go to Elk River high school, so I can't take those classes that you mentioned. But researching and giving me advice about fashion design in Elk River is so very nice of you! Thanks again! : )
Finley
You're welcome, Finley !
Michelle M.
Florian Rettmann
Accoun Executive
2
Answers
Dublin, County Dublin
Updated
Florian’s Answer
I would try an internship if that is available, basically the best idea in these cases is to get exposure to such roles so you can not only get experiences but also learn if that is interesting to you or not
I'm planning on doing so, thanks! I really appreciate the advise!
Finley