It's A Juggling Act with Many Rewards part 1

Being a fashion designer may sound glamours but, there's a ton of work that goes on behind the scenes. I've picked up the following skills while working as an assistant and associate designer. The bosses that I worked for had to display these skills in order to run their division effectively. I currently have to use these skills in my business as an accessories designer. It's a juggling act with many challenges and rewards. Here is part 1 of "Important Skills" that a designer must have.

• Design - Knowledge of current trends in styles, colors, prints and other decorative trimming. Knowledge of design techniques that are cost efficient. Able to sketch collections fully and come up with new ideas constantly.

• Sell- Ability to “sell”/present seasonal collections to design directors department heads, and sales team for approval to start sample process. All parties have to be convinced that the collection will sell therefore, concept presentations are not for the shy. Designer has to have confidence in his ideas and be able to present them during concept presentations.

• Active Learning - Being aware of price points of fabrics and trims. Attending fabric and print trade shows for new concepts and materials to adopt. Reading fashion publications and keeping abreast of sourcing trends. For example if the price of metal has been on the rise then, a collection may not have much decorative metal trimmings. Knowledge of your competitors and their price points.



• Communication- Able to direct the design team that assists in building the collection. This includes interns, assistant and associate designers. Some companies have specific woven and knit designers. Head designer has to communicate with the entire team on the direction of the collection.

• Problem Solver- Able to settle any misunderstandings in regards to style development and can quickly come up with new ideas to solve a problem. If a sample does not come out looking the way design expected, designer has the skill to communicate adjustments to spec technician or must be able to decide to drop the style and replace with new idea immediately.

You can click here to download the ebook "6 Quick Steps to Get the Job, Move to NYC and Live Your Dreams, From a fashion designer's perspective" to get more insights.

Question: Are you a designer? Add to this list. What are some of the skills that you use?

Be sure to check back on Tuesday for part 2 of this article!