Fashion design is a world of creative possibilities. Fashion designers should have a keen eye for color, shape and trends. Students pursuing a degree in fashion design should be prepared to work hard and learn many skills including draping, sewing and pattern making. Although there are many benefits to a career in fashion design, no career is glamorous at all times.
Long Hours
A budding fashion designer must be prepared to work long hours. Fashion houses may be working under deadlines or working with clients to meet their specific needs. During times like this, which could be ongoing, fashion designers could work 12-hour days. Because the industry is competitive, an individual must be willing to work these hours or be easily replaced by someone else.
Daily Chores
Many people may picture an average day in the life of a fashion designer as sketching ideas and working with luxurious fabrics all day. However, this is not reality. Fashion designers have various chores on a daily basis. Completing paperwork, such as specification sheets, may be a daily function. Specification sheets include measurements, color sample specifications and a description of the product.
Competitive and Locations
The fashion industry attracts many people. According to the website Fashion Designer Salary Data, in addition to the competitive nature of the industry, many positions are concentrated in Los Angeles or New York. Fashion designers do not have the luxury of being able to get a job in any city.
Low Starting Salaries
A starting salary for a fashion designer may not be as glamorous as its job description. Low salaries are often the norm for an entry-level design position, notes Fashion Designer Salary Data. A beginning salary for a fashion designer might start about $25,000 as of April 2011. However, if fashion designers are willing to work hard and persevere, they could earn anywhere from $60,000 to $100,000 and upwards per year. The time it takes for a designer's salary increase varies depending on the company.
