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Fashion Production: The Nuts and Bolts of Your Clothes |  |
March 13, 2007
by Kate Robb
Design Programs Columnist
In any creative field there is a big difference between generating ideas and selling them to other people. But fashion design is different, because it brings creativity into the business world. And that's where classes in fashion production can help.
Mapping a Long Road
Got a gorgeous sketch in your head, just waiting for a runway? According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, "The design process, from initial design inception to final production, takes between 18 and 24 months." What happens during all that time?
- Research about trends and seasonal projections
- Visits to manufacturers and trade shows
- Decisions about fabric and design
- The creation of prototypes and samples
- Presentation at fashion and trade shows
Production Classes Unify the Fields
In the long run, the business and marketing processes for a $200 handbag might be very different from a pair of $50 jeans, but in terms of production, the processes are very similar. Fashion production essentially covers the process of turning your private idea into a marketable, sellable product. Most fashion production classes cover topics like sketching, patterns, fabric, and software. They will also introduce you to working with manufacturers and distributors.
As with any business career, there are also more intangible things you need like networking and people skills, an organized, strong work ethic, and a passion for your field. Classes in fashion production will give you the inside edge to get your ideas off the page and onto the racks.
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About the Author
Kate Robb is a poet, cultural critic, and university professor.
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