Designing and selling your own clothes is a dream that many people entertain. Apparel colleges and couture courses are packed brimful of aspiring artists, however the reality is simply that only a few workable fashion jobs exist.
In order to succeed in the clothing industry, it is necessary that you develop both a thick skin and an enthusiastic, energetic attitude. Prospective designers need to be able to take criticism, and to bounce back quickly having adapted their style to accommodate comments and advice.
If you are keen to start work in the fashion industry, you will need to put together a good portfolio of designs before you do anything else. This will involve plenty of hard work and a lot of sketching and creative brainstorming, and so it's a good idea to start work on it while you are still at college.
Next you will need to source a variety of names and company addresses, and to send out a variety of CVs to those at which you would most like to spend time. Remember that – at least to begin with – you will more than likely be hired in the position of an intern which means that your pay (if it exists at all) will be minimal.
Finding a point of entry into the fashion world is difficult. The industry is competitive and filled with hopeful, talented people. Be tenacious and brave in your attempts, and remember to continuously invest in the business of networking and making connections.
