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.

601 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.

594 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.

591 Votes

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.

589 Votes

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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...

588 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!

582 Votes

what made you successful in your career and what did not?

Asked by pinkbling over 13 years ago

Listening to your customers, reflecting on mistakes, and being able to be flexible and willing to deviate from a set strategy have helped me a lot in this business. I try to avoid being overly confident - that attitude's gotten me nowhere in the past. It's getting harder to predict what the market wants.

582 Votes