Fashion designers are the heart and soul of the creative end of the clothing and apparel business.  It is the designer’s responsibility to develop fashionable, trendy, and unique articles of clothing to distribute to the billions of consumers who support this industry each year.  A fashion designer is the "front-man" for specific clothing manufactures.  He or she is responsible for learning and understanding fashion trends.  He or she also sketches the original designs and selects colors and fabrics while overseeing the entire process.

Once a designer has an initial design in mind and the appropriate research is complete, he or she can designer begin the transformation from idea to reality.  A fashion designer is the manager of a large team of professionals who assist in every aspect of design.  While the fashion designer sketches the concept, textile manufacturers develop fabric and patterns based on the current needs and wants of the buying public.

The next step in establishing a piece in a collection is the development of a prototype.  A designer will normally construct a sample using cheaper materials and a fashion model to fine-tune the idea.  Once all the minor details are worked out, the actual designs with the designated fabrics and colors are created.  It is at this point that the designer will research retailers to market the design to.  Designers may take designs to fashion and trade shows in order to reach a broader market. 

Another technique that is gaining popularity while saving time and money for the designers is the concept of computer-aided design (CAD).  In an attempt to eliminate the use of a “live” fashion model, designers are able to transfer original sketches to computerized virtual models.  This enables the designer to make the appropriate adjustments in a more cost effective and efficient manner.

While many designers are responsible for the entire process (from sketch to production), some designers may be trained in specific areas.  This is primarily dependent upon the size of the design firm and the level of experience of the designer. 

There are a few different types of fashion designers and each one works in a specific area.  Some designers work in mass markets and produce clothing and apparel in large quantities in various sizes and colors.  These designers target chain retail stores that offer an array of options and sell to a variety of customers.    Some designers in the business may also own their own stores or boutiques.  These designers create original designs that target a more specific market.  There are also a few designers in the business that create high-end fashion that targets a small percentage of the buying world.  These designs are primarily custom made and sell for extremely high prices.

Individuals that wish to pursue a career as a fashion designer must have a love of design, concept, art, and style.  In addition to the love of the work, it is important to have a strong understanding of textiles, fabrics, ornamentation, and fashion trends.  In order to actively pursue a fashion design position, many companies require the applicant to present a series of original designs and sketch work.  Over the course of time, designers create a portfolio to house all of their best and most unique designs. 

In order to obtain a position as a fashion designer, a bachelor’s degree of fine art may be essential.  Some companies will hire applicants upon completion of a certification program that are offered at many colleges.  Fashion design majors that are interested in designing custom work to sell in their own retail stores may also take interest in courses that emphasize business and marketing as well. 

There are about 250 postsecondary institutions that offer programs in art and design.  These schools are accredited by The National Association of Schools of Art and Design.  They require students to have previously completed art and design courses.  These schools grant enrollment to students that have successful sketches and can demonstrate artistic ability.  While it is important to excel at the artistic side of this craft, sewing, pattern making, sales, and presentation skills are also encouraged to ensure the fashion designer is well versed in all aspects of the field.  This ensures the ability to give direction and to sell products. 

It is also possible for an aspiring fashion designer to obtain knowledge and experience as an intern, while working in retail stores, while employed as personal shoppers, or while working as stylists or as a tailor.  Establishing connections in these industries can ultimately improve the fashion designer’s chances of gaining further employment in larger firms or for more exclusive companies.  The first hand knowledge of the sales and marketing aspect of the business can also greatly improve a designer’s chance for advancement and successes down the road.  

Fashion design is an industry where making a name for oneself really counts.  A popular way to show off talent is to enter in amateur contests that are set up for beginners in the business.  This is an excellent way to gain recognition while establishing connections.  Milan and Paris are both cities that are dominated by fashion.  Many fashion designers are able to earn exquisite reputations by working in these cities.  Here in the States, New York and California are the leading powerhouses in the fashion industry.  It is important to be available to relocate, if the need were to arise.

The world of fashion design can be a pretty lucrative career.  The salary ranges vary depending on the specific manufacturing or design firm a designer is employed with.  Other factors that may determine a difference in salary can be location, education and the quality of textiles and fabrics used to make the apparel.  As discussed earlier, a few designers are self-employed and maintain a strong following of wealthy clients.  These designers work both the business end and the design end and custom make clothing to meet certain specifications.

Due to the growing populations, needs for clothing and apparel are on the rise.  Many designers will find themselves working in companies that mass produce clothing that is affordable and stylish.  These jobs can also produce many benefits.  Designers are allowed to showcase their talents while reaching a larger market.  These careers also provide more consistent work, considering that the demand for high-end styles found in boutiques and high-end design firms are declining.  Designers who choose a career in this field may also be able to work in areas that are not specific to such places as New York, California, and Paris.   

Fashion design salaries will also fluctuate depending on a person’s level of experience and education.  Designers who choose to branch out and establish a line to sell in their own boutique have the opportunity to make more.  As always, salaries will also depend on the city and States and the cost of living associated with each.  Here is a list of a few States and the median average salaries.  All statistics are provided by payscale.com.

New York $59,600 per year

California $59,450 per year

Oregon $46,010 per year

Illinois $31,580 per year

Florida $40,330 per year

The highest paid fashion designers seem to reside in New York and Atlanta.  Here is a list of certain cities and the average median salaries.

New York and Atlanta $50,000 per year

Los Angeles $47,399 per year

San Francisco $45,000 per year

Miami $30,000 per year

The average salary for a fashion designer who has earned a degree is $45,750 per year. 

The world of fashion design is exploding.  Many companies are scurrying to meet the demands of the increased populations and the ever-changing need of the buyer.  Fashion designers have the potential to make their mark on society.  By watching the changing trends and by being able to predict trends that have the potential to be “hot” in the future, designers hold a bit of power.  They pass the trends on to the consumer.