Fashion Design School: Mastering the Basics

As with any skill, it's essential that you master the history, theory, and methodology. You must first learn the rules before you can break them. Lighting, texture, stitching, 2-D art, 3-D art, and composition are all areas you'll need to have under your belt before you attempt to strike out on your own. But the lessons don't stop there. Product development, merchandising, marketing, and distribution are all essential business skills that every fashion designer must master. Fashion can be cruel and unforgiving, and the best way to protect yourself from failure is to learn the industry in and out.

Fashion Design School: CAD

Computer-aided design software (CAD) got its start in architecture and engineering, but it has found a welcome place in fashion as well. Designers can try out new ideas quickly and efficiently without wasting time and resources. Mastering CAD software will prove essential once you enter the world of rigid deadlines and fast-paced action.

Fashion Design School: Networks, Contacts, and Associates

Fashion is an industry that straddles both the business world and the entertainment industry. Not surprisingly, knowing people who know people is extremely advantageous. Fashion design school will put you in touch with industry moguls, alumni, potential business associates, models, major distributors, advertising agencies, and a whole network of contacts that can help ensure that your hot new ideas get off the ground and take flight. Do yourself a favor and secure a solid foundation in fashion design before trying to make it on your own.

Sources:
US Department of Labor