Designer apparel originates from a drawing of an apparel designer. Of course nowadays we often talk about electronic drawings. A lot of the production of apparel is outsourced to countries with extremely low wages. Apparel design however is mainly done in the countries where most of the potential buyers live. In other words a lot of the apparel design is done right here. The whole process starts with inspiration. From there it goes to the graphic design studio. The apparel designer has this idea and he starts making it visual with overall 3D design. Conceptualization is usually done with the help of modern technology. Apparel designers develop and coordinate what was originally an idea and eventually prepare a presentation for their supervisor, customer, or sometimes a board of directors.
Designing apparel is not very simple and overall some schooling is required before someone can enter the business. Natural talent is important but it is not the only requirement for a successful career in apparel design. In school, students learn how to proceed from an idea to an actual apparel design and to a real prototype. Fashion and Apparel studies can teach you all you need to know to become a successful apparel designer. A bachelor’s degree is an absolute must if you want to become an apparel designer. You have to learn all there is to know about CAD applications. While you are in school you should consider applying for any job you qualify for in a designer company, even if it is not a job directly related to the designing part of apparel production. Apply for a job at a company like that of a receptionist or housekeeper who cleans the graphic design studio and find some contacts that in time can help you get in as an intern. Do not rush your endeavor. It is important to do this right rather than fast.
Job opportunities are everywhere. Some apparel designers start their own business and do the entire process, from the idea, to the design, to the production, and eventually the sale. For them it is a good idea to take some business classes. Other apparel designers advertise their skills and work as freelancers for companies who hire them for just one particular job. Sometimes they work for the same company again later on, but there is no guarantee. Over the years some work for many different companies and even individuals as apparel designers. Others apply with big companies and start at entry level positions that eventually give them a chance to become top apparel designers.
The fashion industry makes a lot of money. That does not mean that every apparel designer is rich. Paychecks are so variable in this sector that it is not really possible to put a certain amount on it. Some become rich and others just do not. Fancy apparel designer companies bring expensive apparel on the market and target a small group of the population that can afford that. Some companies specialize in cheap apparel, but even they hire apparel designers. Apparel designers are employed in textile mills, with apparel manufacturers, pattern companies, design studios, fashion forecasting firms, retail businesses and many more. There are more than 3 million Americans involved in the fashion industry. If you are looking for a creative business to get into you should consider apparel design.
