Fashion is a highly dynamic and competitive industry. It is also one of the most sought-after careers. To pursue a career in fashion design, one must acquire eclectic skill sets and put in a lot of hard work.
The fashion industry consists of four levels: the production of raw materials, principally fibres and textiles but also leather and fur; the production of fashion goods by designers, manufacturers, contractors, and others; retail sales; and various forms of advertising and promotion.
The clothing industry or garment industry summarizes the types of trade and industry along the production and value chain of clothing, starting with the business online (producers of cotton, wool, fur, and synthetic fibre), and embellishment using embroidery
- It’s not just for glamour. Fashion is never easy and, of course, not always glamorous as often believed
- Reinvent yourself
- Take inspiration from everything
- Be ready to explore options
- Be a good observer
- Create an identity
- Be research-oriented
1. It’s not just for glamour
Fashion is never easy and, of course, not always glamorous, as often believed. Behind the glamour lies a lot of hard work, stringent deadlines, last-minute changes, and sleepless nights.
Such an environment, therefore, requires true passion, a healthy dose of self-motivation, and determination to go that extra mile to achieve one’s creative goals.
2. Reinvent yourself
Constant innovation is the key. Stay innovative in your approach, develop critical thinking, explore alternatives, and know how to communicate and translate your ideas into reality.
Be aware of the dynamics of the global market and try to grab potential opportunities that it creates.
3. Taking inspiration from everything
Be original, be a storyteller, and inspire in mysterious ways—it can come from anywhere. It could be your pet, a room’s ceiling, music, an event, cinema, a poem, images, nature, or people, to name a few.
A clothing collection inspired by fond memories you have of your grandma. Why not? What matters is your creative vision and how you interpret it.
4. Be ready to explore options
The fashion world is more than just designers. The dynamic industry offers multiple job opportunities, ranging from a stylist and fashion brand to a publicist and marketing manager. Explore various options and analyze what interests you the most.
5. Be a reasonable observer
You must slow down at times and observe the world around you – people, artwork, places, colors, structures, nature, etc.
Good observation skills will make you more perceptive and open to various possibilities, which will, in turn, often translate into your work. So, be mindful of your surroundings and pay attention to every detail.
6. Create an identity
These are the first thoughts that come to mind when we think of them because they have successfully created a unique personal signature.
During your design programme, explore your forte and discover your signature style. That will help create a unique identity for you, which, in turn, will build your authentic brand, thus distinguishing you from the rest.
7. Be research-oriented
It is of utmost importance to approach inquiry with a curious mind and apply the findings effectively. Research does not mean limiting yourself to Google only.
Information can be found in various sources, including books, journals, visits, interactions with experts, and more. A creative professional with excellent research skills is often able to generate new and unique ideas and better ways of creating things.
