Fashion

Fashion Design Degrees

Fashion designers study the latest fashion trends, sketch original designs, select the fabric and materials, and oversee the production of their designs. There are several different types of fashion designers:

• Clothing designers create garments specifically for men, women, or children, and the types of clothing include suits, casual wear, sportswear, swimwear, intimate apparel, maternity, or outerwear
• Accessory designers create and design items like belts, scarves, handbags, hats, and hosiery
• Footwear designers design and create boots, shoes, sneakers, and sandals

Fashion Design degrees prepare you to learn the proper skills and knowledge needed in order to succeed in this industry, and are available an associate, bachelor, and master levels. Coursework will cover fabric, textiles, colors, design, sewing and tailoring, sketching, pattern making, and ornamentation, and computer-aided design (CAD), which has simplified some of the initial sketch and design processes.

Fashion designers should develop a portfolio to showcase their sketches and design ideas. You should also participate in internship programs to gain real-world experience, to complement your Fashion Design degree.

Job Opportunities for Fashion Designers

Employment for fashion designers is expected to grow 1 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The highly competitive industry, as well as the decline in cut and sew manufacturing is the main reason for the lack of growth. Consumers at middle-income levels continue to demand affordable and stylish clothing, so some fashion designers may find employment in that area.

Most fashion designers usually work for clothing lines, large designer firms, or start their own businesses and stores. Those who live in the United Sates reside and work in California or New York.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition