Ask a Fashion Designer anything

115 Questions

Last Answer on February 19, 2013

What lines of yours succeeded and why you think they did?

Asked by blahze over 14 years ago

At the last Market Week, I showed infinity scarves that featured bright, almost saccharine-neon, colorways. Some of my color choices were risky, but I made sure to merchandise those with more commercial, "safer" colorways. I think buyers appreciate that kind of restraint and commercial sensibility. Anthropologie just picked up the line for the fall.

611 Votes

Why don't runway models smile?

Asked by el789 over 13 years ago

Fashion models display a neutral "face" so buyers focus on what they're wearing not how they look.

605 Votes

what made you want to become a fashion designer?

Asked by pinkbling over 13 years ago

A need to create and a love of beautiful things...

603 Votes

Do you have to be able to sew to be a good fashion designer?

Asked by sooooophia over 13 years ago

I don't think it's a requirement. But you should know a good seamstress to execute your designs/samples for sure! As long as you know how to give clear instructions, and can communicate exactly what you want, you should be outsourcing that function and spending your newfound time getting to know your customers/market and coming up with better designs.

601 Votes

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when did you want to become a fashion designer?

Asked by pinkbling over 13 years ago

4 years ago, spurred by a crap job and a need to have a more flexible work schedule. Looking back, my decision was more of a lifestyle play vs the culmination of a lifelong goal.

601 Votes

Do you think the reputation of "fashion people" as being bitchy, rude, diva, devil-wears-prada types is accurate? If so, why do you think the industry attracts these types?

Asked by Margot over 13 years ago

I personally think not. I think that unfortunate stereotype is largely shaped by the media looking for an interesting subject -- unfortunately, dueling designers, outrageous designs, and out-sized personalities in our industry make more interesting subjects!

594 Votes

what do companies look for in designers?

Asked by pinkbling over 13 years ago

For a junior designer / design assistant, they look for the right work attitude - wilingness to work hard and do grunt work (fashion is hardly glamorous!), detail orientedness and overall dependability. For more senior designers, brands generally look for a commercial sensibility and merchandising skills.

591 Votes