Hey there. I'm an eighteen year old aspiring designer from Louisville, KY. I'm just now starting on my first Collection and it's pretty hectic considering I've never been to fashion design classes, a fashion design school, or much of anything regarding fashion. All I know is I have a passion for it. My head is full of great ideas, my sketchbook is loaded with designs that have never been seen before, but I'm not sure how to get my foot in the door. Thought this would be a good place to join--hoping to speak with a few fashion moguls and brainstorm or just hear what those who have real experience in the fashion industry have to say. If you are one of these people who know a lot about the fashion industry--don't hesitate to send me an e-mail or reply to this. My e-mail is kristinkouturefashion@gmail.com.
you have a book filled with original design.
do you utlize photoshop and illustrator?
do you know what material and colours you will be using?
do you also sew?
do you wish to go to school? or do you want to launch a collection?
will you be selling your clothing on a website or will you be selling to the buyers of stores or boutiques?
you have to be your best editor and look at your drawings with a very critical eye.
ask and answer these questions:
what will sell? ( what design from your line is the standout piece?)
to whom will you be selling these clothes?
do you have backers for your clothing line? ( in other words, who will be funding your design launch?)
what will your price points be?
you do realize that it is currently a very very tough market, because of the recession.
yes, you can be successful, but you have to step cautiously and know what you are doing.
best wishes to you.
thanks for the great advice. to answer the questions: yes, i have a book filled with original design. i do not know illustrator but i do know photoshop. i do know what colors and materials i will use. i know how to sew and am working on getting better at it. i don't plan to go to school but do plan to launch by collection and am working on my first one right now. it's pretty unique i must say. i am looking into patternmakers at the moment. do you think thats a good way to go? i do not have any funding for my line, how exactly do i go about getting that? and i plan on selling my clothes to department stores but first, online to see how that goes. again, thanks for all your help!
Thanks for the advice, but like I said, I have no background in fashion and do not want to go to fashion school. I want to try to do it all on my own! Working on my first collection now and my website. :) Super excited to start this. Hope to be successful
You state, "I have no background in fashion and do not want to go to fashion school. I want to try to do it all on my own!". Personally, I think that sounds a bit dangerous. Anyway, if you work hard, you can be successful.
By the way, it is never too late to take a few courses... Also, working for others so that you can learn the ropes, is some times a good idea...
I agree that some sort of background is a must. Especially if you are just now learning to sew. Understanding of garment construction is crucial...even if you plan on having someone do your patterns (and possibly sewing?). You need to know if your designs are even feasible and cost effective. You will discover you will become a better problem solver if you come across design/cost issues.
I hope that doesn't sound too harsh. Taking just one or two classes at a community college would help immensly. I do admire your courage and motivation. Wish you the best of luck!!!
i am Arun , have 7 yrs experience in the fashion industry. we are Government approved unit, we are looking for buyer to expand our unit, we are ready to develop sample also.