Information About the Fashion Design Industry: Career Outlook

Read about what to expect in a fashion design career.

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Industry Information on Fashion Design Careers

When most people think of the fashion design industry in the U.S., they think of New York City or Los Angeles. These are the undisputed fashion capitals. So it's not surprising that the largest concentrations of fashion designers work in either California or New York. While it is not a requirement for fashion designers to live and work in these areas, those who are committed to succeeding in the business should consider that there are a higher number of jobs in the nation's fashion centers.

New fashion designers will find a wide variety of employment opportunities to consider. The most current information about fashion design from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals that about 22,700 people worked in fashion design careers in 2008.

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Fashion Design Career Choices: Is Self-Employment for You?

When deciding whether to join the ranks of self-employed fashion designers or take a company job, consider the challenges and benefits of each.

If you do contract or freelance work, you will choose which jobs you take; however, you'll be responsible for finding your own business. You will also need to set up your own work space and maintain your own equipment. If you work for a company, they will provide these things.

Being your own boss may mean keeping irregular hours. However, you may feel that having a more flexible schedule is a benefit. Fashion designers who work for companies generally work fairly regular hours, so if you prefer to have a more predictable schedule, this may work better for you. Keep in mind that periodically, any fashion design career may require long hours to meet deadlines—regardless of where you work.

Job Competition in Fashion Design Careers

Fashion design is a growing field; however, the competition for jobs remains fierce. The number of fashion design careers with wholesalers and corporate offices is growing, yet many manufacturing jobs are now overseas.

Designers who are just starting out in a fashion design career should expect to hold the least glamorous positions. Even job candidates with two or four years of college education should expect to start at entry level. As you gain experience in the field, you will be able to compete for better positions.