Pursuing a Career in Fashion Design
Have you always dreamed of becoming a fashion designer? Although it can be a difficult industry to break into, those that have the desire and the perseverance can work their way into the field. Fashion design is a highly competitive and ever changing industry, and to succeed you will need drive and passion. Don't think you can't get into fashion design just because you aren't in New York or didn't graduate from an exclusive fashion design school.
When you think of a fashion designer, you may have a mental image of someone who works exclusively with expensive lines of clothing that are sold in only the most discerning stores. Although there are plenty of designers that do this kind of work, you have to keep in mind that any kind of clothing must be designed. The clothes that you wear every day were created by a fashion designer. Just because something doesn't cost more than your rent doesn't mean it didn't go through an extensive design process.
If you don't have a fashion design degree, do not be disconcerted. A fashion degree may help, but it is by no means a requirement. Plenty of designers break into the fashion world without any kind of formal degree or training under their belt. In fact, a fashion degree may help you get a job, but it will definitely not get the job for you. Experience and a good eye for fashion are the keys in this industry, and no degree is going to hold you back or catapult you forward.
Should you live far away from New York or Los Angeles, do not be discouraged. These cities are home to some of the most exclusive fashion design firms, but fashion design can be done in any city. With the internet you can market your new line of fashions anywhere in the world. Living outside of NY or LA may actually help you, as local boutiques may be willing to carry your line whereas the major cities are a more entrenched environment.
Although you may not live at the center of the fashion universe, it's still very important to remain of what's going on in that world. Subscribe to fashion magazines and keep up with the latest happenings in the industry. Not only can you stay current with the latest and greatest trends this way, but you can also feed off of the new trends, drawing ideas for your own designs. Consider making a trip to New York or Los Angeles just to see what the hot new trends are at a wide range of the retailers.
More than anything, however, stay positive and keep working at improving your skills and getting your line out there. Any entrepreneurial activity requires patience, energy, and perseverance to stay in the game. The worst thing you can do is give up early on your efforts. Fashion design can be hard to break into, but it's not impossible. With the right attitude and plenty of hard work, you can find your niche and make it work. Several huge lines have been launched from home and since become national and even international lines because their founders had the vision to work hard and stay motivated.
Keep your horizons wide open when you consider what to design. In addition to the "haute coutoure" market of upscale clothing, there plenty of other avenues to explore. Accessories such as jewelry are a great way to break into the fashion industry, as these items can be easier to produce and can be sold with a decent markup. There are also t-shirts, jackets, swimsuits, hats, bandanas, scarves, and beach wear just to name a few of the items that you can look into designing at home. The possibilities are just about endless.
Whatever you're looking into designing, the market is big enough that you can make it as an independent designer. Create a line of creative and interesting items, establish an online storefront, and you can be in business. If you believe in your designs and have the patience and energy to stay in the business, then you can definitely make it as a fashion designer.
