Fashion Designer

Examine sample garments on and off models, modifying designs to achieve desired effects.

Confer with sales and management executives or with clients to discuss design ideas.

Adapt other designers' ideas for the mass market.

Visit textile showrooms to keep up-to-date on the latest fabrics.

Identify target markets for designs, looking at factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status.

Select materials and production techniques to be used for products.

Collaborate with other designers to coordinate special products and designs.

Purchase new or used clothing and accessory items as needed to complete designs.

Direct and coordinate workers involved in drawing and cutting patterns and constructing samples or finished garments.

Develop a group of products or accessories, and market them through venues such as boutiques or mail-order catalogs.

Sketch rough and detailed drawings of apparel or accessories, and write specifications such as color schemes, construction, material types, and accessory requirements.

Design custom clothing and accessories for individuals, retailers, or theatrical, television, or film productions.

Provide sample garments to agents and sales representatives, and arrange for showings of sample garments at sales meetings or fashion shows.

Research the styles and periods of clothing needed for film or theatrical productions.

Attend fashion shows and review garment magazines and manuals to gather information about fashion trends and consumer preferences.

Sew together sections of material to form mockups or samples of garments or articles, using sewing equipment.

Read scripts and consult directors and other production staff to develop design concepts and plan productions.

Draw patterns for articles designed, cut patterns, and cut material according to patterns, using measuring instruments and scissors.