Fashion design is notoriously competitive – here are four ways to increase your chances of finding success in the industry.
Immerse yourself in the industry
No matter how you do it, make sure you become an active part of the industry. Whether you secure work experience, attend lots of events or start your own blog, it’s important that you try your hardest to be proactive. The fashion industry is rife with fierce competition, so any contribution you make – no matter how insignificant you may think it is – proves that you’re serious about finding success.
In fashion, it’s vital to stay one step ahead of the rest at all times. By spending your time doing something meaningful to your future career and keeping yourself motivated, you will automatically be arming yourself with the appropriate mind-set making it big as a fashion designer.
Build upon your knowledge and skillset
Whatever relevant knowledge and skills you possess, always try to improve. You should be aiming to become an expert in whichever area you’re most interested in, in order to help you stand out. Whichever skills you already have, work on them – there is always room for improvement.
If you’re only just starting to develop an interest in fashion design, take the time to research the knowledge and skills you’ll need. Practise your sketching by using existing images as references and once you’re confident doing this, try visualising your own designs and putting them on paper; translating ideas into a form for others to see is one of the most important skills a fashion designer can have.
Study a related programme
The best way to go about acquiring and improving knowledge and skills is by enrolling onto a course, whether that be short and practical, or something more in depth like an HND in fashion and textiles or degree in fashion design. Getting a related qualification under your belt has a great number of advantages.
Firstly, you will learn from people who have lots of industry experience; they will pass their knowledge and insight onto you and prepare you for your future career. As fashion design is very hands-on, you will be equipped with everything you need to make a head start with skills development. There may also be opportunities to network and attend industry visits, which can only enhance your knowledge and chance of success.
Don’t be afraid to speak up
In fashion, you can’t be scared of being a little pushy in order to get what you want. You have to be confident, or at least be able to pretend that you are. If you see an opportunity you’re interested in, chase it – even if you feel it’s a little above your station, the worst you can get is a knockback, so it’s always worth a try.
Your contact list will likely play an important role in your securing a job, so networking is really important. Whenever you get the chance to get someone’s contact details, don’t be afraid to ask for them. All it takes is the one bit of courage, and you never know what it might lead to.