How to Find a Job with a Fashion Design Degree

Did You Know.... The International Academy Of Design & Technology offers an online bachelors degree program in fashion merchandising as well as associates and bachelors degree programs in retail merchandise management. Learn more about IADT's online fashion programs.

So, what do you once you get your fashion design degree? The path is simple: market yourself, market yourself, market yourself. You know that you are talented, and armed with your fashion design degree, it is time to make sure everyone else knows this too. While you are in school, decide what aspect of fashion design you wish to focus on, and then do what it takes to get there. It is no secret that fashion design is a skills-based industry - creativity is crucial, but your applicable skills are just as important if you want to get your foot in the door. Potential employers want to see what you know, and what you can do. Show them!
The first way to properly marketing yourself involves building out a thorough, professional-looking portfolio. Do not fret if you are a recent graduate, employers understand this and are happy to consider your best student work as an example of your abilities. Spend time carefully tailoring your selections because the portfolio you present is your chance to make a memorable first impression.
It is also important to have versatile skills. It is likely that you won't start out as the head designer or the creative directory - no matter how wonderfully talented you are. You want to be seen as an asset no matter what position a potential employer has available. So, make sure that you have the creative skills, the ability to troubleshoot, devloped critical thinking skills. Impress your employers no matter what role you fill and you are well on your way to a successful career.
Okay, so the most important advice we offer budding fashion designers is to be prepared for and willing to do anything. Don't be afraid to take a job answering phones for Calvin Klein or manning the copy machine for Prada. Just view any opportunity as a way to get started. Keep your eye on your long-term goal but be willing to settle for less in the beginning.
Just for a little extra boost of encouragement, consider the first jobs of same of the most famous designers in the industry. Ralph Lauren was a door-to-door tie salesman. Coco Chanel worked as a retail saleswoman in a hosiery store. Salvatore Ferragamo worked in a boot manufacturing plant, and Marc Jacobs was a stock boy for a New York clothing store. Laura Ashley was a secretary and Manolo Blahnik was a jean buyer for a department store. Humble beginnings? Certainly. The talent of the household brand names mentioned here didn't just suddenly pop out of out nowhere. Instead, these designers believed in their talent and were willing to do what it took to break into the industry. Remember this.
Whatever you do, pursue your career in fashion with passion and intense dedication. Start each day with a healthy dose of optimism and know that if you work hard enough for long enough, your dream job can happen. See you on the runway!

Want To Be A Fashion Stylist

Did You Know.... The Art Institutes offer fashion design and fashion marketing programs in dozens of cities across the US. Learn more about the Art Institute campus near you.

What a hair stylist does for your 'do, a fashion stylist does for your wardrobe!
It is the job of a fashion stylist to help a client figure out what "look" he or she desires and then help him or her get it. If a rocker chick is looking to tone it down for an interview, if an aspiring executive hopes to look the part, if a politician needs a new image, or if a mom desires to reclaim a lost sense of style and sophistication, he or she might consult a fashion stylist.
Ultimately, a fashion stylist is an image consultant. Professionals in this line of work have a keen fashion sense that is paired with an equally strong ability to recognize the desires and individuality of their clients. It is no big secret: we come in all shapes and sizes, and we have various personalities and lifestyles. We all want to look good, but we all want to look...well, like ourselves. A fashion stylist knows how to help clients choose outfits and accessories to compliment body type and sense of individuality.
Becoming a fashion guru takes dedication, experience, and pizzazz. Most fashion stylists start out in the fashion industry - working in various positions, including retail sales, buying, advertising, and journalism. Our tip to stylist hopefuls: soak up all of the knowledge and experience of the fashion industry that you can. Whether you start out selling pantyhose at Macy's or picking up the fashion editor's morning latte, keep your ears and eyes open! Knowing and learning as much as you can about the fashion industry will only prepare you to launch your own dream career.
Another tip: get experience by offering your services to family and friends. Everyone has the cousin whose wardrobe is stuck in the 1980's. Help your cousin out and practice your consulting skills! Don't be afraid to believe in your talent, and be adamant about marketing your services - even from the beginning. If you work hard, continue to engage in fashion design training, and want it bad enough you will eventually get a chance to show what you can do. Seize and dress every opportunity in a pair of Jimmy Choo's!

The Mystery of Fashion Trends

Did You Know.... The Art Institutes offer fashion design and fashion marketing programs in dozens of cities across the US. Learn more about the Art Institute campus near you.

This summer it is "boho" chic. Last summer, it was preppy sailor simplicity. In the late 90's it was the grunge look. Yellow is the new black. Jeans are the new business casual. And on. And on. Yes, I am writing of fashion trends. The latest look, style, and color floods the covers of magazines, the shelves of retailers from Saks to H & M, the bodies of celebrities and television characters and, undoubtedly, is able to get enough of us to buy into it (literally and figuratively) to validate the whole cycle. So, while most of us are easily able to grasp this continuously perpetuating cycle of saturating the public with the latest, greatest duds, questions remain: how does a trend start? Who makes this decision? Why does it work?
Well, to be perfectly honest, there is no definitive answer to the myth that is a fashion trend. But, while the exact formula is beyond the consumer, we can be sure that it takes the work of several different interdependent fashion industry professions to convince us that espadrilles, suspenders, and terry-cloth suits are worthy of our dollars and donning.
Fashion designers gather their inspiration, whether it comes from popular culture, music, politics, a celebrity muse, or something else entirely. Then, they design - usually a spring and fall collection. With a slew of inspired, perfectly crafted designs ready to hit the runway, they show their collections.
It could possibly be said that the trend begins at the fashion show. Fashion writers, buyers, photographers and celebrities line the runways, waiting to take in, criticize and praise the designer's work.
Writers go back to their offices and verbally comment on the design they have seen. If a collection is deemed great, the editor may be persuaded to feature the clothing on the cover of the month's issue. This is also influenced by fashion publicists - professionals who are paid to get the designer's duds in front of larger audiences. Thus, we read about the latest fashion trend.
Photographers snap photos as the models parade down the runway and sell them to parties interested in the designer's work. The photos show up in newspapers, industry magazines, fashion magazines and various other media outlets. Thus, we see the latest fashion trend.
Buyers, if impressed, order pieces that their clientele will be willing to pay hundreds or thousands to own. Other designers, those focused on mass production of more affordable versions of the latest trend, gather their inspiration here too. Thus, we can purchase the latest fashion trend.
So, as you can see, it is impossible to pinpoint exactly how a fashion becomes a trend. What you can know, with certainty, is that it took many professionals in the fashion industry to get you to the cash register with your bohemian-inspired peasant blouse.

Lights, Action, Runway

Did You Know.... The Art Institutes offer fashion design and fashion marketing programs in dozens of cities across the US. Learn more about the Art Institute campus near you.

Producing a Fashion Show

Producing a fashion show is like directing a movie - coordinating all visual and technical aspects to create one final (but fabulous) production. Although fashion shows can be produced on any budget and for any type of audience, a game plan is necessary to execute perfection.
With over 20 fashion shows under my belt, I could probably write an entire book (and may still do). However, the following guidelines will certainly put you on the right track to illuminate your very own runway!
THEME of SHOW
Every fashion show must have an overall concept. Is it a Back to School Fashion Show for a mall, a showcase for a local designer, or a charity fundraiser? The client possibilities are endless. Creativity is the key to dress up the show any way you see fit. I have produced many themed events for holidays, stylist collaborations, color/shoes/jewelry/lingerie inspired concepts, and designer or retail-driven shows. Once you have a theme for your runway, the details are much easier to solidify.
MODELS
Agency models know how to strut the catwalk, but can be very expensive. If you don't have the budget to pay industry rates, base your model search on your client's needs. Are you promoting a children's line and need models under the age of 12? Is this a charity fundraiser with all ticket-holders over the age of 60? Hold a model call and place ads on free bulletins requesting potential models to show up in person to fill out fitting sheets and take Polaroids to remember their look. This is a great way to build your own model base for future shows.
FASHIONS for the RUNWAY
As the producer, you may or may not have to select the clothes for the runway. Based on your show concept, the stylists, designers, or stores might choose the merchandise. In any case, make sure you are familiar with all the garments in the show. Each garment should be returned in the same condition it originated. Take photos at the model fitting and have a list of all items on each model. When they return their outfit to you after the show, check for all pieces. This way you know who is accountable for what.
PRODUCTION
To get any show ready for the runway, you will need to solidify a venue to host the event, a runway or stage, lighting, music and of course, hair & makeup. Nightclubs, hotels, schools, and malls are popular fashion show venues. However creative spaces can be turned into runways. You may have a DJ to mix the music, a salon sponsoring the hair/makeup, and a multimedia screen on the runway with store logos. Whatever your technical details, make sure everything is tested and ready to go before the show.
SCRIPT
Write out the entire show in a script format. Whether you have an emcee speaking commentary on each outfit or music timed out for each individual scene, the model and fashion order is extremely important to have written down. This will make it much easier to call your show and follow along with the program.
VIP SPONSORS
On occasion, you may work with sponsors paying for the event who want additional publicity onsite. Hang their banners, giveaway promotional gift bags, and/or host a VIP reception for the sponsor's guests. If the sponsor is a restaurant or alcohol/beverage company, feature their product exclusively.
With thorough planning and creativity, a fashion show can be a huge success. And so much better than a boring movie!

To find a fashion design school location near you and learn more about the fashion programs available, click on any of the school links below:

Online

The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, Online Division

Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Retail Management, Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Management

International Academy of Design & Technology Online

Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Bachelor's Degree in Fashion Merchandising

Why Work When You Can Design?

Did You Know.... The International Academy Of Design & Technology offers an online bachelors degree program in fashion merchandising as well as associates and bachelors degree programs in retail merchandise management. Learn more about IADT's online fashion programs.

 

Are your school notebooks literally filled with creative illustrations of fashion design concepts that no-one has ever seen? If so, you may have already found that getting in the door of a reputable fashion design firm, is almost impossible without the right experience or credentials to make your resume stand out. Whether you're interested in a career working in fashion design, fashion editing, fashion merchandising; you can't get taken seriously if you can't get noticed.
We Can Help! All we do is help creative people like you get their questions answered.

• What's my earning potential as an assistant fashion editor?
• Is Fashion Merchandising more competitive then Fashion Designing?
• Is the demand for Fashion Marketing growing?
• Can I complete my degree in Fashion by taking all my classes online?

Why not finally get the credentials you need to be taken more seriously! Learn what it takes to make your professional aspirations a reality by requesting free information from any of the leading fashion design schools below.

• Engage in dynamic class discussions
• Gain innovative insights from leading professionals in the field
• Take classes at your own pace, even entirely Online
• Develop the skills to express your creative talents

Turn the tables and let the leading fashion design firms compete for you! Get the skills to communicate your creative potential through illustrations, clothing, animation and more. If you have an eye for trends and a passion for clothing why not finish it off with the proper training so someday you might see your work in a magazine or on television! The possibilities are endless!

LIGHTS, ACTION, RUNWAY

Did You Know.... The Art Institutes offer fashion design and fashion marketing programs in dozens of cities across the US. Learn more about the Art Institute campus near you.

 

MODEL EXPECTATIONS

I am often asked by so many aspiring models, how to break into the industry. As in any fashion trade, modeling is an extremely competitive and cutthroat business. You've seen "Americas Next Top Model" and "Janice Dickinson's Modeling Agency" which glamorize the world of fashion shoots, runway shows and designer clothing. However to get to that working model stature, it can be quite a challenge.

However, models are needed on any level, from local boutique fashion shows to regional advertising campaigns to national cover girls. The steps to get to the top can be extremely difficult but not impossible. It is important to expect to work hard, listen to industry experts and build your book.

FIND A REPUTABLE AGENT

Don't be scammed into paying thousands of dollars by an agency that promises to make you famous. If living in a small town or city, research the agencies that actually work with professional clients, such as advertising and film production companies, and show producers. Don't sign with a company that claims to bring in outside scouts from LA and NYC. A real agent will help build your book so that you are ready to actually work in those markets.

START EARLY

It's no secret that models keep getting younger and younger. Some of the freshest faces on magazine covers are as young as 13. Getting an early start is an advantage that is worthy to explore if possible. However, models of every age continue to work in the industry every day.

BUILD YOUR BOOK

When going to a "Go-See" for a potential job, the client will ask to see your book or portfolio of pictures. Make sure your book is current with all of your previous experience and has a range of different looks you can achieve. To build your book, many new models work with professional photographers on test-shoots and even offer to model for student photographers. These jobs may not pay but can give you some amazing pictures for free.

TAKE A CLASS

Ask your reputable agent where you can take a class to work on posing for the camera or walking the runway. Many agents offer classes onsite to help their clientele improve their modeling skills, while some professionals also teach classes at fashion schools or on a private level.

SALARY EXPECTATIONS

Remember an agency will take 15-20% of what you earn on a paying job. This is unavoidable if you want to book the good gigs. Based on your current market, models are often paid a flat fee for the job. For example, an advertising client may pay $250/model per day for a 2-day shoot. Your agent will take their commission before taxes and then you will receive your check.

BE A REALISTIC SUPERMODEL

Giselle and Heidi Klum didn't expect to become internationally sensations and neither should you. Clients can spot the divas a mile away and are really looking for the fresh face that will work best for them. Have a positive and confident attitude and think big and you just may be the girl on the next cover of VOGUE.

How To Figure Out If Fashion School Is Right For You

Did You Know.... The International Academy Of Design & Technology offers an online bachelors degree program in fashion merchandising as well as associates and bachelors degree programs in retail merchandise management. Learn more about IADT's online fashion programs.

It is true that not every famous designer has gone to a fashion design college, but enrolling in fashion school programs is a sure way to perfect your design skills. While it is entirely possible (with hard work and unwavering determination) to become a successful, world renown fashion designer without school- like Alexander Queen, or Coco Chanel- it is more likely that you will reach the same end by attending fashion design schools.
There are plenty of those that made it big with the help of a formal education: Christian Lacroix, Donna Karan, Marc Jacobs, and Michael Kors to name a few. They all attended school and earned a degree which gave them the needed boost to make their way in the industry. But, in case this is not enough to convince you that you should seek out the benefits of fashion design colleges, here is a list of reasons to go.

• Fashion school programs will prepare you to reach your big picture career goals; attending fashion design school will give you the building blocks for the steps to achieving your dreams. Natural talent is one thing, but when combined with formal training, it makes a winning package.
• Fashion school will help bolster your credentials and build your portfolio. The fashion industry is extremely competitive and you will have time to develop the necessary edge to succeed.
• Fashion school programs will allow you to explore a full range of possible careers. If you have an eye for business as well as design, perhaps a career in fashion merchandising would suit you; become a textile buyer, a product promoter, or a wholesale merchandiser, among other great options.
• Fashion design school is an excellent environment to network within the industry. You will be surrounded by aspiring artists as well as established designers who you can not only learn from, but also make connections with. Networking is a huge part of success in the fashion industry

After Fashion School: Top Qualities of a Fashion Designer

Did You Know.... The International Academy Of Design & Technology offers an online bachelors degree program in fashion merchandising as well as associates and bachelors degree programs in retail merchandise management. Learn more about IADT's online fashion programs.

When it comes to fashion it is all about the design. If you want to be the next Coco Chanel or Karl Lagerfeld then fashion school will equip you with the skills you need to be on the top of the fashion food chain. Learn what are some of the qualities that make great fashion designers.
Becoming a fashion designer in this competitive industry will require a lot of you. Many covet fashion designing jobs while only few attain the success they seek. If you are considering becoming a fashion designer, find out if you have what it takes to succeed in both the job world and in fashion school. Here are the top qualities of a successful fashion designer.

• Fashion knowledge - Even before you step foot into a fashion school, you should have a current knowledge of today’s hottest fashions. Whether you love them or hate them, it is important to know trends and top players in the industry to see where your point of view would fit in.
• Creativity - Fashion is an art like any other. It is great if you have a love of fashion, but without creativity, you will have little to offer the world of fashion. Creativity is not something you can learn in fashion school yet studying fashion inside and outside of school could inspire you and get those artistic juices flowing.
• Originality - Knowing everything about the hottest trends is important but what would you bring to the table? The world of fashion craves new and exciting designs. Some of the most successful fashion designers are those who dare to be different and were often the oddballs in fashion school.
• Technical skills - Fashion design jobs require great artistic vision but nothing will come to fruition without technical skills. You must not only know how to design clothing but also to construct it. While top fashion designers have manufacturers under their belts, new fashion designers who are just starting out will have to sew for themselves. These are skills you can learn in fashion school or with a fashion apprenticeship.