What does a Fashion Designer Do?
- Fashion Design by Design Student Gabriela Hernandez
- Fashion Design by Design Student Gabriela Hernandez
Fashion designers are responsible for the design and creation of clothing and apparel. This includes creating the concept of the clothing on paper, creating a pattern, cutting patterns, constructing clothing, and adjusting designs. They select the colors, fabrics, and textures that would be ideal for the construction of their clothing. Fashion designers identify their target markets, conduct market research, and create clothing for their market’s lifestyle and preference.
Preparation: Fashion Designer
Fashion programs will teach classes on color, drawing, form, pattern making, draping, and cutting techniques. Since fashion designers first capture their concepts on paper, it is important to be able to sketch their ideas. While a formal education isn’t always necessary for becoming a fashion designer, having the credibility of a renown fashion design school on your resume can go a long way. To become an independent fashion designer, business savvy is required.
Personality Profile: Fashion Designer
Since clothing is the outward expression of one’s personality, possessing creativity, vision, and individuality is invaluable. Fashion designers need creativity as well as an understanding of drawing, sewing, and production.
By the Numbers: Fashion Designer
- Fashion designers held about 23,000 jobs in 2008.
- There are 7,200 projected job openings for fashion designers over the next decade.
Fashion Designer Perks
In order to stay up to date on the latest trends, fashion designers have the perk of attending fashion shows. Many fashion designers are self-employed, giving them independence and flexibility in their career and personal life.
Show Me the Money: Fashion Designer Salary
In 2009, fashion designers made approximately $30.90/hour and $64,260 annually.
To find the ideal fashion design program for you to launch a successful design career, visit My Colleges and Careers!
(Fashion design sketch by design student Gabriela Hernandez)