British Academy of Fashion Design | Blog (2024)

The creative industries survive on the ability to generate ideas that excel and innovate.Nowhere is this more true than in the world of fashion. In order to succeed as a designer, you need to have an in-depth knowledge of the market and be able to make informed predictions about future trends. Research is fundamental to this and is a key element of all stages of the design process.

Finding inspiration through research

Every season, designers stay up to date with trends and find their inspiration by undertaking primary and secondary research. This is one of the most exciting times in the design process because the designer is starting from the beginning and can be at their most creative. Some designers start with fabrics, spending hours looking through hangers, walking around fabric stores and discussing new fabrics with vendors. Others investigate themes – a childhood memory, ethnic and cultural clothes or a museum visit – and submerge themselves in areas they find interesting. Nature, vintage shops and archives are all locations that can be used to search for images, colours and details which can be sources of inspiration.

Combining primary and secondary research

Designers will then cross-reference their ideas with secondary sources, such as what other designers have created before them; trends and colour predictions for the previous and upcoming years; where sales are strongest; what their competitors are producing and what the latest fabric technology is.

Without combining primary and secondary research, ideas cannot be taken further than the initial generation stage. When ideas are combined with this research, designers start to explore the routes to transform these ideas into reality. This process can inspire a designer even further as they never know how far they will end up developing their ideas. This is the stage where great designers thrive – they are not afraid to experiment, innovate and bring ideas to life which no one has previously seen or imagined.

Research is a fundamental part of the design process

The design process helps the designer to generate an initial idea and take it all the wayto the final design.

· They start with a design brief and a customer profile, allowing them to assess what their objective is and who theircollection will be designed for

· The next step is to carry out research for the brief

· This research is then compiled and a comprehensive theme iscreated. This might require the designers to carry out further research once they have decided on their main theme. Throughout this time, designers will play with the ideas which their research has inspired – many take themselves away and create music or paint, others surround themselves with people to bounce their ideas off.

Enjoy the research you carry out in your assignments and use it as the chance to create and be inspired. Please let us know your favourite part of the research process.

British Academy of Fashion Design | Blog (2024)

FAQs

Is fashion design course hard? ›

Becoming a fashion designer is not easy as it takes many years to complete the course and then a few years in the industry to find your feet.

Is fashion design easy to get into? ›

Breaking into the industry will be hard but not extremely so. The key is to get your first fashion designer job and continue building experience. If you do that, your salary will rise and you'll almost certainly make way more than you spent on your fashion degree.

How many points do you need to study fashion design? ›

Minimum APS score of 28.

What are the odds of being a fashion designer? ›

The superstar rise is an unlikely event, but it happens. Based on the number of “international star designers” in the last 10 years and the number of people who have entered the profession, the estimated odds of becoming an internationally famous designer are roughly 160,000:1.

Do you need to be good at math to be a fashion designer? ›

Is Math Important for Careers in Fashion Designing? Yes, math is important to decide the right amount of fabric, hangers, thread, and other goods required in the fashion business. In addition, the designers also perform calculations to estimate the approximate production costs for the clothes.

Can I be a fashion designer if I can't draw? ›

Many aspiring fashion designers are confronted by fashion industry myths that one should not start a clothing line or can't start a clothing line if they can't draw or sew. This myth could not be further from the truth. It is absolutely possible to start up a clothing line or fashion brand without these skills.

What is the average age to become a fashion designer? ›

The majority (43.2%) average age of those in Fashion Designing and other types of design are in the 25-34 age group. The average age for someone working in this type of role is 35 years, which is below the average age of all occupations that sits at 40 years.

Is it stressful to be a fashion designer? ›

Fashion companies tend to make everything stressful and as if it were of vital importance. But those who work in fashion do not save lives and many tend to forget it.

How much math is in fashion design? ›

Ensuring that the clothing will fit the models requires exact and calculated measurements. Price of Items Designers and retailers use math to determine clothing prices by calculating the cost of fabric, hangers, thread, and other necessities. They also use math to determine when and how to offer discounts.

What math is required for fashion design? ›

General Curriculum Requirements:

Math Courses: Algebra, Calculus, Computer Science, Logic, Statistics. Natural Sciences Courses: Astronomy, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Physics.

Do fashion schools look at grades? ›

Candidates are evaluated based on class rank, grades in college, preparatory coursework, and a student essay. We generally consider applicants with a strong B average. Students applying to Art and Design programs must submit a portfolio for review. Letters of recommendation are not required.

What is the first thing to learn in fashion design? ›

Sewing, draping, pattern making and fashion drawing are the key technical skills you need to know to become a well-rounded, competent, hands-on fashion designer. Some designers prefer to express their initial ideas graphically, by sketching them onto a piece of paper or onto a computer screen.

What do fashion colleges look for? ›

Fashion colleges are looking for your philosophy, point of view and most importantly, what sets you apart from other designers. Know key designers, fashion terminology and historical movements. Well-versed college applicants stand out from the crowd – from Chanel to Dior, McQueen to Wang – we've got you covered.

Can you go to fashion school without knowing how do you sew? ›

Q: Do I need to know how to sew and draft patterns? A: Not necessarily, but you should familiarize yourself with garment construction. It's a common misconception that you must know how to sew to be a fashion designer. This is actually where a lot of my frustration with fashion schools is rooted.

What is the success rate of fashion designers? ›

So, while more than 85 percent of fashion design graduates ultimately find full-time employment, most of them will not work as designers.

What gender dominates the fashion industry? ›

While the vast majority of students who obtain a degree in fashion are women, men still dominate the industry.

Are fashion designers in high demand? ›

Job Outlook

Employment of fashion designers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2021 to 2031, slower than the average for all occupations. Despitelimitedemployment growth, about 2,300 openings for fashion designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Do you have to be good at drawing to study fashion? ›

The question is: Do I need to know how to draw to start a clothing brand? The short direct answer is No, you can start and run a successful brand without knowing how to draw, but for your sake and in the end, for the brand – yes it would help a lot if you could visualize your ideas.

Can everyone be a fashion designer? ›

It is possible to become a fashion designer without formal education in the field, but some experts suggest that, without attending a formal fashion design program affiliated with a well-known school, it is more challenging to break into the fashion industry.

Do all fashion designers know how do you sew? ›

Watching fashion reality TV, you might think that every designer knows how to sit behind a sewing machine and whip up an outfit they designed from start to finish. In reality, though, many designers don't or can't sew at all. Designers aren't required to know how to sew.

How do I become a fashion designer with no experience? ›

How to work in fashion with no experience
  1. Reach out to your network and ask for help. ...
  2. Strategize your internship. ...
  3. Be honest. ...
  4. Bring enthusiasm, willingness to learn. ...
  5. Analytical, data-driven and practical. ...
  6. Create your own opportunities.
Jan 1, 2023

Am I too old to be a fashion designer? ›

Their stories prove that it doesn't matter how late you start, you can still be great at what you love. There is no age limit on realizing your dreams.

What gender are most fashion designers? ›

Apparel Fashion Designer Statistics By Gender

80.8% of apparel fashion designers are women and 19.2% of apparel fashion designers are men.

How many years does it take to become a fashion designer in USA? ›

About four years. Most fashion designers hold a bachelor's degree. During a fashion design program, students study textiles, fashion history, and fashion merchandising.

Do fashion designers make a lot of money? ›

Some fashion designers earn reasonable salaries while others earn very little. Most fashion designers rank between these two extremes. The average salary for a fashion designer is $15.98 per hour . The mean salary for fashion designers was $74,410 per year, or $6,200 per month.

What personality should a fashion designer have? ›

good communication, presentation and negotiation skills. creative and artistic skills. flexibility to adapt designs to suit clients' needs. good organisation and planning skills.

What are pros and cons of being a fashion designer? ›

The pros of being a fashion designer include being able to be creative and the prestige and opportunity to travel, while the cons include stress, long hours, high costs, and intense competition. Being a fashion designer can be very rewarding, both financially and personally.

Can you make a living as a fashion designer? ›

Most fashion designers make a living by either working as employees for larger entities in the fashion industry or by starting their own fashion businesses. Here, we'll touch on both types of career paths—and the education, networking, and business smarts required to pursue them successfully.

What percentage of fashion designers are female? ›

There are over 3,854 fashion designers currently employed in the United States. 82.7% of all fashion designers are women, while 17.3% are men.

Do you need geometry for fashion design? ›

Geometry is not only used in designing clothes, but it is used in structuring clothes, as well. When constructing shirts and pants, the designer must ensure that the seams are parallel in order for the shirt to hang correctly on the body.

How much does fashion design cost per year? ›

Fashion Designing Course Fees is INR 9,000 - INR 3,00,000 on average. Fashion Designing Course Fees vary depending on the type of course, college, and duration of the course.

Why is the 3 to 5 ratio significant in fashion? ›

When it comes to getting dressed, many experts consult the Golden Ratio to help balance proportions between different garments. It may be tough to eyeball a 1:1.618 ratio in the mirror, but balancing upper and lower pieces according to a 2:3 or 3:5 ratio creates a naturally aesthetic outfit.

Do you need to be good at math to sew? ›

The prep work involves a lot of math, particularly fractions and geometry, calculating amounts of fabric, and adjusting measurements for different applications. Even when working with sewing patterns, everything needed isn't always spelled out step by step.

What GPA do you need for fashion school? ›

What GPA Do You Need To Get Into FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles? FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles's average GPA is 3.15. FIDM-Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising-Los Angeles does require GPA.

What is the acceptance rate for fashion school? ›

Fashion Institute of Technology is a medium-sized public institution located on an urban campus in New York, New York. It has a total undergraduate enrollment of 7,959, and admissions are selective, with an acceptance rate of 59%.

What GPA do you need to get into FIT fashion design? ›

The average GPA at Fashion Institute of Technology is 3.56. (Most schools use a weighted GPA out of 4.0, though some report an unweighted GPA. With a GPA of 3.56, Fashion Institute of Technology requires you to be around average in your high school class. You'll need a mix of A's and B's, and very few C's.

Can I be a self taught fashion designer? ›

If you have the talent and skills, you can earn a role as a fashion designer without having a college degree. To succeed as a fashion designer without earning a formal education, you need to independently acquire all of the skills you would typically learn in a classroom.

Is Fashion Designing hard to study? ›

Becoming a fashion designer is not easy as it takes many years to complete the course and then a few years in the industry to find your feet.

Is fashion design easy to study? ›

Education in fashion is demanding, and creative and physical labor is challenging. Alongside your hands-on creative skills, you will also need to develop communication, marketing, visual arts, graphic design, and general design skills.

Is it hard to get into a fashion school? ›

It is difficult to get into fashion school, as many programs have low acceptance rates. Each fashion school is different and has its own admission requirements. If you decide that fashion school is the right choice for you, you need to prepare for your application.

Do fashion schools require SAT? ›

SAT Requirements & Average SAT Score

SAT scores are not required for admission consideration at Fashion Careers College.

Which country is best for fashion jobs? ›

France is the leading country for the fashion industry in the world, according to the Brands Countries IPX by IFDAQ.

Is it worth it to go to fashion school? ›

Our analysis has shown that a fashion degree can lead to a lucrative career and can absolutely be worth the price, even when it's quite expensive. Even if you have to take out loans of $100,000 or more, it can still be worth it in the long run. The key is to make sure you choose the right fashion career.

Do most fashion designers first learn how do you sew? ›

Sewing in fact is a very huge part of fashion designing, because if the garment is not sewed together you don't have a finished product. In other words, it is not the question of sewing being necessary or not.

Is it hard to be a fashion student? ›

It is difficult to get into fashion school, as many programs have low acceptance rates. Each fashion school is different and has its own admission requirements. If you decide that fashion school is the right choice for you, you need to prepare for your application.

How do I know if fashion design is for me? ›

If you enjoy sketching garments and working with fabrics and trimmings, a fashion design career could be right for you. When considering a career in fashion, you should assess your ability to draw and cut patterns to prepare garments as this skill is essential for a career in fashion.

How long does it take to learn Fashion Designing? ›

About four years. Most fashion designers hold a bachelor's degree. During a fashion design program, students study textiles, fashion history, and fashion merchandising.

Does fashion school require math? ›

Fashion design focuses on designing and creating clothing and accessories. For this major you'll take lots of fashion design classes. But you'll also need to take classes in the arts, science, math, and social sciences to earn your bachelor's degree.

What is the average age of fashion designer? ›

The average age of an employed fashion designer is 36 years old.

Do fashion designers have a future? ›

Job Outlook

Employment of fashion designers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2021 to 2031, slower than the average for all occupations. Despitelimitedemployment...

Can fashion designers make a lot of money? ›

Some fashion designers earn reasonable salaries while others earn very little. Most fashion designers rank between these two extremes. The average salary for a fashion designer is $15.98 per hour . The mean salary for fashion designers was $74,410 per year, or $6,200 per month.

How do fashion designers start out? ›

Students interested in the field can earn an associate's or bachelor's degree in fashion design, where they take courses in computer-aided fashion design, the history of fashion, textiles, figure drawing, and pattern making.

Do fashion designers know how do you draw? ›

To do fashion illustrations and flats, not only does a designer need to know how to draw with pen and ink, but he or she should also be comfortable with tinted mediums like colored pencils, watercolors, and gouache.

Can I be a fashion designer without knowing how do you sketch? ›

Many aspiring fashion designers are confronted by fashion industry myths that one should not start a clothing line or can't start a clothing line if they can't draw or sew. This myth could not be further from the truth. It is absolutely possible to start up a clothing line or fashion brand without these skills.

At what age should I start Fashion Designing? ›

Individuals keen on pursuing a Master's degree in fashion technology need to have attained 23 years of age. Candidates should have completed a Bachelor's degree in Fashion Designing from a recognised University in India with a minimum of 50% marks in aggregate.

Can I teach myself fashion design? ›

Contrary to popular belief however, it is perfectly possible to begin building a successful fashion career at home. It's simply a case of using your own time to build the skills, knowledge and confidence to go pro.

How many days a week do fashion designers work? ›

Fashion designers typically work 40 hours a week, though self-employed fashion designers may work more hours than that to manage the various roles they have to perform as independent designers.

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