How To Become A Fashion Designer

If you have an eye for the latest fashion trends, love making your own clothes, or are even just obsessed with Project Runway, you’ve probably thought about becoming a fashion designer.

People need clothes, and fashion designers are always in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics says that jobs in the industry are expected to grow at 3% until 2032 (about as fast as average). It’s an exciting job that allows you to work in a range of environments. However, it’s not always as glamorous as people may think, and it’s incredibly competitive.

So, if you’re dreaming of a career in fashion, how do you do it? Let’s get into my tips for how to become a fashion designer.

How To Get Into Fashion Design (5 Tips)

1.Getting a degree

You don’t necessarily need a fashion design degree to get a job in the fashion industry. If you’re a creative person and have the willpower, you can learn a lot of these skills without getting a four year degree. This is especially true if you want to run your own fashion business.

However, the industry is competitive. Many others applying for the same jobs as you will have a degree, or at least some technical training. Further education can help you hone your fashion designer skills and teach you about:

• the fundamentals of fashion design

• sketching techniques

• different fabrics and what to use them for

• expert sewing techniques

• computer-aided design (CAD)

Many successful fashion designers started out at a reputable fashion design school.

2.Build a strong portfolio

Your portfolio is your visual resume. You need it to showcase your skills and design aesthetic to potential employers. It should include a range of your best work and demonstrate your ability to:

• follow fashion trends

• create original, unique pieces

• execute your ideas from concept to finished product

To set yourself apart, you need a good eye for detail and strong presentation skills.

3.Gain experience

The fashion design industry is very hands-on. You may need to work your way up to becoming a full-on fashion designer. Internships and entry-level positions at fashion brands will teach you so much about how the industry works and pave the way for your career.

4.Attend fashion shows and network

Networking is so important in the fashion world. You can attend fashion shows, exhibitions, and conferences to meet other professionals. Even social media is a great way to connect with designers, stylists, and brands.

Building a professional network can lead to new collaborations, mentorships, and even job opportunities.

5.Keep up-to-date with trends

Being a fashion designer is all about learning and adapting to the latest trends. Even if you have a more classic, timeless aesthetic or one that goes against trends, you need to know what’s going on.

Keeping on top of trends helps to inform your design process and lets you know what resonates with consumers. Read fashion magazines, follow fashion blogs, and use social media to stay tuned into the latest in the industry.