Do you want to become a Fashion/Clothing Designer? Here is some information to help point you in the right direction:
Job Description - 
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Fashion/clothing designers design clothes and accessories - from one-off pieces costing thousands of pounds to High Street fashions worn by hundreds of people.
Designers usually work two seasons ahead, liaising with buyers and forecasters to predict the coming fashions. They draw rough ideas by hand or using computer packages. These initial ideas may be discussed with the design and marketing team before the best are selected and turned into sample garments. When the clothes go into production, the fashion designer has to be available to give advice and deal with any problems.
Newly-qualified designers earn from around £12,000 to £14,000 a year. Senior designers may earn up to £55,000 a year.
Designers normally work from 9am to 5pm, but hours may be much longer if there are deadlines to meet. They can work alone or as part of a small team. The work might be in a studio or a small workshop. Visiting fashion shows and exhibitions - sometimes overseas - is also part of the job. Designers who also make clothes, or are involved in making samples, will spend time at a cutting table using a sewing machine.
Fashion/clothing designers need to:
Designers work for fashion houses, as part of an in-house design team in a retail chain, for a manufacturer, or for themselves. Competition for places is fierce. Skills such as pattern cutting, textile technology, production management and studio management are sought after.
Most start their careers after taking a degree, a foundation degree or HND in fashion. Entry is usually based on a portfolio of work and an interview. Adult entry is possible.
Training is usually on the job, learning skills from more senior designers.
With experience, designers may be able to move into more senior design roles, work with more established fashion labels or set up their own businesses. They could also move into specialist areas such as colour predicting, style consultancy, fashion journalism or costume design.
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