Do's and Don'ts of Starting Fashion School

Starting fashion design school is an exciting journey filled with creativity, learning, and self-discovery. To help make the most of your experience, here are some key do's and don'ts to keep in mind:

Do: Embrace Your Creativity

Fashion design school is the place to explore and push your creative boundaries. Don't be afraid to experiment with bold ideas, unconventional materials, and unique designs. This is your chance to develop your style and voice as a designer.

Don’t: Compare Yourself to Others

It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to your peers, especially in a highly creative environment. Everyone is on their own journey, and your growth will come at your own pace. Focus on your progress and celebrate your unique strengths.

Do: Develop Time Management Skills

Fashion design school can be demanding, with multiple projects, deadlines, and studio work. Throughout my time at college, I’ve tried to take most of my general education classes during my freshman year and over the summers so that when I became an upperclassman, I could focus on my fashion courses without feeling too overwhelmed. You can set up good time management habits early to stay organized and avoid last-minute stress. Planning ahead will help you stay on top of assignments while allowing room for creativity.

Don’t: Ignore the Basics

Learning fundamental skills like sewing, pattern-making, and sketching is crucial. While jumping straight into design is tempting, having a solid foundation will make your ideas come to life more effectively. Take the time to learn and refine these basics.

Do: Seek Inspiration Everywhere

Fashion inspiration isn’t limited to the runway. Look to art, architecture, history, and even everyday life for ideas. Broaden your creative horizon by observing the world around you, and let that influence your designs.

Don’t: Overlook Networking

Fashion design is as much about connections as it is about creativity. Take advantage of opportunities to network with your peers, instructors, and industry professionals. Building relationships early on can open doors to internships, collaborations, and future career opportunities.

Do: Take Criticism Constructively

Critiques are a big part of fashion design school. Rather than getting discouraged, view feedback as a tool for growth. Listen, learn, and apply constructive criticism to improve your designs and skills.

Don’t: Neglect Self-Care

Fashion school can be intense, but taking care of yourself is crucial. Don’t burn out by overworking. Maintain a healthy balance between work, rest, and socializing to stay energized and motivated throughout your studies.

Do: Stay Open to Learning

Fashion design is constantly evolving, so stay curious and open to learning. Whether it’s a new sewing technique, a different design approach, or insights from fashion history, keep expanding your knowledge to stay adaptable.

By following these do's and don’ts, I hope you set yourself up for success and enjoy a fulfilling journey through fashion design school!