Design is an art and only a few are blessed with it. If you are one of those artistic people, then there are several career options for you including fashion designer, jewellery designer, industrial designer, painter, illustrator, graphic designer, etc. If you have a sense of fashion and understand patterns, colours as well as trends of the fashion industry, then you should pick fashion designing as your potential career. But wondering how to become a fashion designer? This post is for you!
Fashion designers study fashion trends and anticipate designs that will appeal to customers. Fashion designers use computer applications to create designs. A fashion designer is expected to have in-depth knowledge about various ethnicities to be inspired to create new collections. They also must have a good knowledge of fabrics and colours. Fashion designers work as fashion consultants and fashion stylists as well. They also take up projects to design costumes for movies and theatre. They may specialise in men’s wear, women’s wear, ethnic styling, knitwear, lingerie, kid’s wear, etc.
Exploring these facets can help you determine if a career in this industry aligns with your aspirations. Curious to know how to become one or how to start your career as a fashion designer? Come along…
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Eligibility Criteria: How to Become a Fashion Designer?
Becoming a successful designer is a unique journey, lacking a set path. Merely observing renowned fashion houses and attending shows doesn’t guarantee success. A fashion degree alone won’t secure a spot in Vogue; resilience and creativity are paramount.
A background in high fashion, familiarity with brands like Tom Ford and Calvin Klein, and financial acumen enhance your prospects. Blend art with business; start small by design in your bedroom, mastering computer-aided design and patternmaking. Here are the eligibility criteria for pursuing a fashion designing course after the 12th :
- You must have completed class 12th in any stream with a minimum aggregate score of 50% from a recognized board.
- You will be required to crack certain design-centric entrance examinations like
These exams evaluate candidates’ aptitude and creativity in the field, ensuring only the most promising talents are admitted. A combination of educational qualifications, entrance exam performance, and language proficiency is essential for aspiring fashion designers to make their mark in this competitive industry.
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How to Become a Fashion Designer? Steps Required
Becoming a fashion designer involves a blend of creativity, education, and hands-on experience. The journey from an aspiring designer to a professional requires dedication, learning, and strategic networking. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the path to becoming a successful fashion designer.
Complete Your Bachelor’s Degree
Start by obtaining a bachelor’s degree in fashion design, fashion merchandising, or visual arts. In India, prestigious colleges like the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Army Institute of Fashion and Design, Symbiosis Institute of Design, and Pearl Academy offer excellent programs. Preparing for entrance exams is crucial to gain admission to these top institutions.
Suggestion: Fashion Design Colleges in India
Pursue a Master’s Degree (Not Mandatory)
After your bachelor’s, consider pursuing a master’s degree. You can opt for courses like Master of Design (MDes), Master of Fashion Technology (MFTech), or Master of Fashion Management (MFM). Gaining some work experience before enrolling in a postgraduate program can also be beneficial.
Create a Portfolio of Your Designs
Start building a digital portfolio of your designs early on. Include sketches, collections, and prototypes developed during your coursework. A well-crafted portfolio showcases your skills, style, and potential to employers.
Develop a Strong Fashion Designer Resume
A compelling resume is essential to stand out in the competitive fashion industry. Include your educational background, professional experience, and skills. Make sure to provide links to your portfolio. Highlight internships, projects, and any accolades to bolster your resume.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Hands-on experience is invaluable. Seek internships with established fashion houses or assist renowned designers like Rohit Bal, Manish Malhotra, or Sabyasachi Mukherjee. Internships help you acquire practical skills, and industry insights, and build professional networks.
Build a Professional Network
Networking is crucial in the fashion industry. Attend fashion shows, join professional groups, and participate in contests. Foster positive relationships with colleagues and mentors. Networking can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
Stay Abreast of Fashion Trends
Fashion trends are ever-changing. Stay updated by attending fashion shows, reading journals, and following magazines. Keeping an eye on emerging trends helps you adapt and innovate in your designs.
Becoming a fashion designer is a journey of continuous learning and creativity. By following these steps, aspiring designers can build a strong foundation, gain valuable experience, and establish themselves in the vibrant world of fashion. Stay dedicated, keep networking, and always stay inspired by the latest trends.
If you need any help in identifying your traits, personality, and skills, please reach out to our expert Career Counselors in Chennai!
Career Path: How to Become a Fashion Designer in India
Here are four distinct career paths that aspiring designers can pursue to shape their creative endeavors in the world of fashion.
How to Become a Fashion Designer: Career Path 1: UG after class 12th
Class 10 all subjects as per scheme of studies – Class 11-12 with any subject as per scheme of studies – UG in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects
After your secondary level of schooling, you can study any subject as per the scheme of studies in your higher secondary school than study for a Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design/ Accessory Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects.
Career Path 2: PG or PG Diploma after UG
Class 10 all subjects as per scheme of studies – Class 11-12 with any subject as per scheme of studies – UG in any discipline – PG or Post Diploma in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects
After your secondary level of schooling, you can study any subject as per the scheme of studies in your higher secondary school followed by a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline. Then you can go for a PG or PG Diploma in Fashion Design/ Accessory Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects. If you have completed 3 3-year diploma (not a degree) in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects from NIFT then also you can apply for PG courses at NIFT.
How to become a fashion designer in India: Career Path 3: PG followed by UG in Fashion Designing
Class 10 all subjects as per scheme of studies – Class 11-12 with any subject as per scheme of studies – UG in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects – PG in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects
After your secondary level of schooling, you can study any subject as per the scheme of studies in your higher secondary school. And then study Bachelor’s Degree in Fashion Design/ Accessory Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects from any arts or vocational college/university. After that, you can go for further study by doing a master’s in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects.
Career Path 4: PhD after PG in Fashion Designing
Class 10 all subjects as per scheme of studies – Class 11-12 with any subject as per scheme of studies – UG in any discipline – PG or Post Diploma in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects – Ph.D. in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ similar subjects
After your secondary level of schooling, you can study any subject as per the scheme of studies in your higher secondary school than study for a Bachelor’s Degree in any discipline. Then you can go for a PG in Fashion Design/ Accessory Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects. After completing your PG, now you can apply for a Ph.D. in Fashion Design/ Leather Design/ Accessory/ Design/ Textile Design/ Knitwear Design/ Fashion Communication/ Fashion Management/ similar subjects.
These diverse career paths cater to varied preferences and timelines, making the pursuit of a career accessible to a broader spectrum of individuals in India.
Final Thoughts!
Now that you know how to become a fashion designer! It’s time to become one! Aspiring fashion designers can embark on a fulfilling journey by following these key steps to carve a successful path in the dynamic world of fashion. By honing their creativity, acquiring relevant skills through education and hands-on experience, building a strong portfolio, and networking within the industry, individuals can position themselves for success. Staying updated on emerging trends and leveraging digital platforms for self-promotion are essential in today’s competitive landscape.
We hope you have all the information needed to make the right career decision! However, choosing the right career could be a daunting task for anyone! And that’s why we are here to help you. Understand what it takes and whether you have it in you. You can avail of iDreamCareer’s special services for that.
We are here to assist you in making an informed decision about your future in this thriving field. Take advantage of iDreamCareer’s College & Course Selection Program today and embark on the path toward a successful future!
Also, read:
- Career as an Art Curator
- Best Fashion Designing Colleges in the World
- Career as Visual Communication Designer
- Career in Product Design
- Career in Art and Design
FAQs
Yes, after completing 12th grade in any stream (Science, Commerce, or Arts), you can pursue a career in fashion design. You have the option to enroll in undergraduate courses like a B.Sc, B.Des., or a Diploma program for a more direct path.
To become a fashion designer without a degree, focus on self-education through online courses, books, and tutorials. Build a strong portfolio showcasing your designs. Gain experience through internships or apprenticeships. Network within the industry and stay updated on fashion trends. Practice consistently to refine your skills.
To become a fashion designer after the 10th grade, enroll in a one-year Diploma in Fashion Designing course, which covers the latest fashion trends and design techniques. Some colleges offer a two-year program. This course prepares you for various careers in the fashion industry.
Yes, pursuing this course in India is worth it for those passionate about design and clothing. India offers reputable institutions, diverse cultural influences, and a thriving fashion industry, providing aspiring designers with opportunities to showcase creativity, gain practical experience, and build a fulfilling career in this dynamic field.
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Anushree Rastogi is a Senior Content Writer at iDreamCareer, bringing over 5 years of expertise to the field of career counseling. She has done a PGDM in Marketing and Finance and possesses a unique blend of skills that allows her to craft engaging and informative content. She is passionate about helping individuals navigate their career paths and has dedicated her career to providing valuable insights through her content. Her commitment to excellence and keen understanding of the career landscape make her a trusted guide for those seeking professional direction. With a flair for clear and engaging writing, Anushree is on a mission to empower others to make informed and fulfilling career choices.
