Fashion design requires both design and sewing skills.
As anyone who has seen "The Devil Wears Prada" knows, the fashion industry is extremely competitive. Designers need to have style, creativity and talent. Going to school to learn design and sew is one of the most reliable ways to prepare for a career in fashion. Choosing and getting into the right fashion design school can give aspiring designers a competitive edge in this difficult industry and prove they have the skills to match their passion.
Instructions
1. Take an art class and compile drawing samples in a variety of mediums. Concentrate on different types of drawing, not just fashion illustration. Rhode Island School of Design and the Fashion Institute of Technology both suggest submitting observational drawings rather than only submitting fashion illustrations.
2. Collect all attractive drawing samples in a portfolio so that you will have a selection to choose from when applying to design schools. Include any piece that looks acceptable, since different schools will require different types of drawings.
3. Research three or more fashion design schools and read their application requirements. Submit photos of your best drawing samples and any other required application elements to the school. Schools are more interested in seeing overall design skills rather than fashion design skills, so send your best work from any medium allowed by the school's admission guidelines.
4. Create basic sewing projects while waiting for application results. Sewing basic objects like pillows, curtains and gathered skirts establishes basic sewing and tailoring skills that will make elementary sewing classes simpler.
5. When acceptance letters come back, choose a school that has a variety of technical and theoretical classes. Select a school with strong hands-on training and internship opportunities. Learning on the job is important for artisan trades like fashion design. Good internships are essential for making connections that will eventually lead to jobs.
Tags: drawing samples, that will, basic sewing, design schools, design skills, different types, fashion design