The Fashion Designer Survival Guide

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The national retail apparel industry has reached $172 billion annually, with designer employment expected to grow significantly through 2008. This guide is essential for aspiring designers eager to launch their independent fashion lines. Mary Gehlhar, an industry expert and consultant to many designers, offers invaluable behind-the-scenes advice and crucial business insights for building a successful career as an independent designer. The guide covers vital topics such as start-up costs, financing, legal considerations, business plans, public relations, sales, marketing, manufacturing, and distribution strategies, including trade, trunk, and runway shows. It features case studies from independent designers at various career stages, sharing both challenges and triumphs. Young designers contribute insights on key issues they faced when starting out, while established designers provide personal perspectives on a single question, offering a glimpse into their experiences and diverse viewpoints. While designers are often brimming with creativity, they may struggle with the business side of independence. This guide equips them with the essential knowledge and practices that design school may not cover, ensuring they are better prepared for the realities of the fashion industry.