Fashion Designer Requirements
If you're hard-working, focused and creative, fashion design is a great career choice. In this open and artistic field, people rise to fashion stardom from the most basic beginnings. However, most successful designers share certain characteristics that helped along the way.
Education
A fashion designer doesn't need to have a Bachelor of Arts degree, though it helps. Since many learn the necessary skills of draping, pattern-making and tailoring in school, college work is a huge help.
Geography
Most fashion designers have good luck finding work near big cities, especially New York City and Los Angeles, where large-scale design and fashion happen. For smaller designers who wish to work for private clients, affluent or trendy areas usually work best.
Fashion Experience
A successful designer benefits from having some sort of clothing experience, whether it be in theatrical costuming, apparel retail or through an internship. Many started styling outfits for friends, or sewing at home.
Time Frame
There's not a set age or amount of time to become a designer. Many graduate from college and work doing corporate design for big companies like the Gap or Limited, later graduating to their own businesses. Others find that it takes several years to establish enough financing and experience to start a line. A potential designer has to be patient and hard-working.
Warning
Good designers are usually humble people who love to learn as much as possible about the crafts of textiles, design and style. This isn't the trade for those looking for parties and glamor; in fact, a fame-seeking attitude will probably be a turn-off to those that would help.
Tags: college work, Designer Requirements, Fashion Designer, Fashion Designer Requirements
