The Successful Fashion Designer

Being a freelance fashion designer means you can step outside of the norm and build a career your own way!Just like today's guest, Amanda Russo, who takes a little bit of a backward approach from what we may normally see.  She lives in Brazil and helps factories source new fashion brands and then manages the product development process.  We talk all about exactly how she got her clients, how she put together contracts and retainers to earn consistent income, and about her amazing experience inside Fast.  If that isn't enough, after just 3 short months of kickstarting her freelancing career, Amanda is already out-earning her previous full-time salary!About Amanda Russo:Amanda Russo, a graduate from an esteemed school, has dedicated the past decade to the field of international product development. With a unique perspective on the industry, Amanda has navigated the differences between American and international product development, often working with a larger focus on national product development. As a fashion

Should freelance fashion designers attend a sourcing trade show?Let's go straight to the source with the vice president of the largest sourcing trade show in North America to get the answer and insider tips to make the most of your trade show experience.  Andreu David is the vice president of Sourcing at Magic is here to help find the perfect vendors and suppliers for your freelance clients or your own fashion brand, And so much more.As the Vice President of SOURCING at MAGIC for Informa Markets Fashion, Andreu spearheads a team renowned for hosting the largest sourcing trade show in North America. In addition, with over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, Andreu is the CEO and Creative Director of his own brand, provides consultation services to fellow entrepreneurs with his company, Brand Design Architects, and teaches fashion design and business at Otis College of Art and Design in Los Angeles. After matriculating with a BS in Marketing from the University of Southern California and a BFA in Fa

Dreaming of more clients doesn't help grow your freelance fashion career...but these tips will!Hanan specializes in modest women's wear and aims to expand her client base but needs a little help navigating her niche. Heidi and Hanan delve into the importance of having a niche-specific profile on platforms like Upwork, as well as leveraging industry connections to attract new clients. They explore strategies for standing out in a competitive market and rekindling relationships within Hanan's extensive network. This episode will leave you inspired to refine your own niche and make meaningful connections in your professional network.Key takeaways from the episode:1. The Power of Niche: Hanan and Heidi discuss the importance of positioning your freelance profile to specifically highlight your niche. Learn how being specific in your niche, such as modest women's wear, can help you stand out in a competitive market.2. Utilizing Upwork: Hanan and Heidi dive into strategies for leveraging platforms like Upwork to fin

There's a mind-blowing amount of nuances that go into being a freelance fashion stylist and who better to share all the deets than someone who's styled for Emmy award-winning TV shows?We have the pleasure of being joined by the esteemed freelance stylist with over 25 years of experience, Darshan Gress. With a diverse background in styling for TV shows like Project Runway and Top Chef, Darshan has now transitioned into personal styling for high-level executives.  From the importance of networking and creating authentic relationships to the nuances of styling and the impact of social media, Darshan provides a wealth of knowledge for aspiring stylists. Join us as we explore the dynamic world of freelance styling and uncover the secrets to building a successful career in the fashion industry.Learn all about the challenges and rewards of freelance styling, the significance of networking, and the art of storytelling through clothing – all while getting a glimpse into the glamorous world of fashion.  Whether you're

Is your corporate fashion job leaving you feeling beat down?  What if you could quit and land your first freelance client within a month?That's exactly what today's guest did!  Jenny Pflanz the highs and lows of transitioning from corporate to freelance work, including the challenges of projecting confidence, adjusting to the lack of office socializing, and seeking sustainability in the fashion industry.  You'll discover the power of networking, the importance of specific details in sustainability efforts, and valuable advice on simplifying the approach to pitching potential clients.If you're curious about the world of freelancing, overcoming self-doubt, and the pursuit of sustainability in fashion, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and empowered to take on your own freelance journey.About JennyMeet Jenny Pflanz, a Textiles and Apparel Design expert with a bachelor's degree from the University of Nebraska - Lincoln. With over 8 years of experience as a Technical Designer/Product Developer for vario

Is your age holding you back in the fashion industry?Ageism is a legit problem in the fashion industry, with some claiming that you're considered "old" after 35.  That's why I'm sharing some of my best strategies to help you combat age discrimination when looking for fashion design jobs.  From updating your email address to removing graduation dates and outdated projects, I've got you covered.I'm also revealing a hidden gem for avoiding ageism altogether!   It can not only help you escape age discrimination but also provide you with more financial freedom and a better work-life balance.  So go ahead and click play and kick ageism to the curb.Fashion Resume ExamplesFashion Portfolio ExamplesUltimate Guide to Adobe IllustratorUltimate Guide to Tech PacksEp 179: Illegal Freelance Jobs Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

Are you at a crossroads in your career as a freelance fashion designer? Wondering if it's the right time to quit your full-time job and go all-in on your freelance gig?You're not alone and in today's episode, we join Rachel Kranick, a freelance fashion designer who shares her journey and the challenges she's facing. Despite her success in the industry and a year's worth of savings, Rachel is torn between her full-time job and the desire to dive headfirst into freelancing. Heidi provides valuable insights on when and how to transition to full-time freelancing, as well as practical strategies to build a sustainable client base. Join the conversation as we explore the personal and professional aspects of being a freelance fashion designer and discover the courage to embrace change and create the career of your dreams.About Rachel:Meet Rachael, a talented designer who specializes in outdoor apparel and outerwear. She absolutely loves designing jackets and technical pieces that are both functional and stylish. Wit

Here's your backstage pass to see the challenges and triumphs of building a global fashion brand with freelancers from around the world.Get ready to hear firsthand stories from Alexander Massey as he shares the ups and downs of working with freelancers and managing the logistics of manufacturing remotely. From surprise welcome hampers to finding the right balance between flexibility and boundaries, this episode is packed with insights and real-life experiences that every aspiring fashion entrepreneur can learn from.About Alexander: Alexander Massey is the founder of Charles William Alexander, a niche pajama and underwear brand that prioritizes sustainability and production in the USA. The brand, known for its premium and regal London-inspired style, has a global reach and a focus on creating purposeful, high-quality products. Massey's vision for the brand is deeply rooted in his connection to his favorite places in the world, including the UK, Australia, and the US. With a commitment to ethical and domestical

A military pilot turned fashion designer?! Yep! And this awe-inspiring journey shows the possibilities of redefining your career path.Trudy Gardner's journey is nothing short of inspiring and she shares her story in today's episode. Expect to hear her secrets to landing clients, finding mentors, and embracing the world of 3D design. Trudy's passion for intimate apparel shines as she discusses her collaborations, courses, and even her very own podcast. Get ready to be motivated and learn from the incredible journey of Trudy Gardner.About Trudy:Trudy is a freelance intimate apparel designer, creator of the Underdressed Podcast, founder of Wayfinder Lingerie Online Academy and a retired military pilot. When she first discovered Clo3D, a software specifically made for patternmaking and 3D design development, she was blown away! She was able to create professional patterns and test them as 3D prototypes based on custom avatar sizes. The amount of resources she could save including paper, fabric and time, was well

Feeling burned out in the fashion industry? Don't throw in the towel just yet! Burnout is real, my friends, and I've been there. In this episode, I'll be sharing my personal story of contemplating a career change, why starting a fashion brand wasn't the right path for me, and the alternative I found that worked wonders. But before you make that final decision to quit, I want you to consider a few things. Trust me, the next ten minutes could be just what you need to hear before saying goodbye to an industry you once loved. So grab your headphones and let's get started!Resources Mentioned in this Episode:SFF134 Alexandra Agreda How to Be a Remote Freelance Patternmaker SFF164: Breaking Back Into Fashion After BurnoutSFF133 Amy The Fashion Freelancer Who Never Wanted to Be a Freelancer179: Illegal "freelance" fashion design jobs... Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clickin

Break free from the endless tweaking of social media and portfolio and start landing paid projects.  Discover how to prioritize your efforts, create an impactful Instagram profile, and leverage in-person connections to gain clients. Get ready to step out of your comfort zone and make real progress in your fashion design business.In this episode, we approach the common problem of being stuck in the "productive comfort zone" that many freelance fashion designers face.  Just like today's guest, Zoh Hollinger, you'll learn the solution lies in creating a visually clear Instagram profile, focusing on pitching, and leveraging in-person connections and trade show listings to land clients. Get ready for actionable tips to propel your fashion design career forward and leave behind unproductive habits. Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here.

Want to know the ups and downs of building a fashion agency, navigating freelance work in fashion, and the incredible journey of transforming an inexperienced designer into a Clo 3D whiz?  Then this episode is just for you!In this episode, you'll hear how Kristen Anderson, a freelance fashion designer turned agency founder, took on a mammoth project that left her feeling overwhelmed and in need of a break. With pressure to go at lightning speed and a desire for control, Kristen shares her experience of building her team, switching up her pricing model, and even jetting off to Sri Lanka to bring her lingerie brand to life. And if that's not intriguing enough, she spills the details on a remarkable success story of a newbie designer who left and came back transformed. Plus, Kristen dishes out invaluable tips on optimizing LinkedIn, managing client expectations, and the power of putting yourself out there. Trust us, this episode is a fashion-forward journey you don't want to miss!Kristen Anderson has been design

Are you tired of the rat race and longing for more control over your schedule? In this inspiring episode, textile designer Masha Khoruzhik shares her journey as a freelancer and how it transformed her life for the better.Masha's freelance career has brought her more than just financial success - it has allowed her to prioritize her mental and physical health, earn more money working fewer hours, and collaborate with renowned brands like Anthropologie. From setting boundaries with her clients to realizing the power of raising her rates, Masha's story is a testament to the freedom and fulfillment that comes with freelancing. Join us as she dives into the challenges she's faced, the surprising transformations in her life, and how taking control of your schedule can lead to a happier, more fulfilling career. Get ready to be inspired and reconsider the endless possibilities of freelance work!About Masha:With a background in illustration and painting, Masha specializes in bespoke textile design and prints for the h

Dreaming of working in the fashion industry and making money? Well, hold on tight because in this episode, we're diving deep into whether starting your own clothing line or freelancing as a fashion designer is more profitable. With personal experiences and insights from industry experts, you'll discover the surprising truth about which path will fill your pockets faster. Get ready to unlock the secrets of the fashion world and find out if your dream lies in launching a clothing brand or taking charge as a freelance fashion designer.Resources Mentioned in this episode:Sofia's Story: https://successfulfashiondesigner.com/fashion-brand-vs-freelancing/

Ever wondered how freelance technical designers review garment samples remotely? Look no further! In this episode, we join Heidi and guest Sarah Wattley as they discuss the ins and outs of this fascinating process. From deciding who receives the sample first, to marking up tech packs and coordinating Zoom sessions, Heidi lays out multiple options to navigate the sample review process efficiently. Discover the benefits of having two samples sent to different parties, and explore the role of pattern makers in the grand scheme of things. Whether you're a freelancer or a fashion enthusiast, you won't want to miss this insightful conversation on making remote sample reviews a breeze!Sara is a single mom of two trying to find that flexible balance between work and home life. Throughout her career, she has explored many areas within the fashion industry of her country and often faces logistical challenges when it comes to reviewing samples.  Sarah's dedication to her work and passion for the industry shine through h

Get ready to unlock your potential as a fashion design freelancer with expert tips on getting clients on autopilot, offering valuable solutions, and becoming a trusted partner in your clients' journey toward success!Working remotely in the fashion industry can have its challenges.  Like confusing language barriers, knowledge gaps, and even plackets! You're not alone and our guest today, Ted Griffith, tells all about his journey as a self-proclaimed accidental fashion entrepreneur. From starting his own athletic wear brand, Sexy Ted, to navigating the intricacies of working with freelancers and factories, Ted shares valuable insights and practical tips that will leave you itching to hear more! Dive into the world of fashion design with us and discover how to turn your passion into profit, all while embracing the joys and pitfalls of remote collaboration. Connect with Ted:Ted is an entrepreneur who loves to play squash and other racquet sports. He decided to start a clothing line because he didn’t like the fit,

Imagine freelancing for one of the biggest names in the fashion industry while still in fashion school!If you're thinking that's impossible, then listen to today's episode to hear how our guest, Jade Wei, a freelance pattern cutter, did just that - landing a freelance gig with Alexander McQueen!From interning to launching her own brand, Jade opens up about the unique path she took in the fashion industry. Discover how she consistently attracts clients, raises her prices, and maintains her creative freedom. With an uplifting and inspiring perspective on life, Jade shares her insights into both the fashion world and the journey of finding your own passion. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply someone looking for a boost of motivation, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to embrace your own unique path and create a brand that makes a meaningful impact.About Our GuestJade is a freelance designer based in London, specializing in 3D pattern-making, garment, and product development for brands with

Before accepting your next fashion design "freelance" gig, make sure it's not illegal.  I'm exposing the exploitative nature of these so-called "freelance" jobs in the fashion industry so you know the exact red flags to look for. Step away from that temp job in disguise and start looking for real remote freelance fashion design opportunities (or technical design, patternmaking, etc!).When you think of freelance fashion design, you *hopefully* imagine the freedom to work on your terms, choosing the projects that excite you. However, the reality can be far from that. Brands often label temp jobs as freelancing, but they expect you to work as an employee without offering any of the benefits. This imbalance allows brands to save money while taking advantage of your talent and dedication. Shockingly, in some places, this working arrangement is actually illegal. These exploitative practices in the industry put true freelance fashion jobs in a bad light.But don't worry, it's not all doom and gloom! In this episode,

If you've ever found yourself stuck in your comfort zone and in need of a little push to take your fashion design career to the next level, you're not alone and that's the exact strategies we'll be talking about in today's episode.We'll explore common struggles with seeking permission and the fear of hitting send on important pitches through the lens of our guest, Jacqueline Schumann's, career. But fear not, because this strategy session will provide the guidance and mindset strategies Jacqueline (and you!) needs to break free from her traditional education and employee mindset. Get ready for an empowering and insightful conversation on how to give yourself permission for success. You got this!About Jacqueline:Jacqueline and a freelance denim designer who works with small to midsize-conscious brands. She studied at FIDM where she learned how the industry works traditionally but after taking a break to have a family, as well as working in various industries, she lost her passion for it. Thankfully, she found i

Uncover this fashion designer's secrets to attracting clients and growing a successful agency, while also shedding light on the challenges and frustrations she faces when working with freelancers (and what you should do instead.)In this episode, Rachel Batterbee spills the secrets to growing your freelance fashion career, ways to expand your network, and insights on what frustrations she commonly runs into when working with freelancers. We dive into her experience starting Guided Makers and how she landed her first clients. Rachel shares her valuable insights on using LinkedIn as a powerful tool for networking and getting noticed by potential clients. And hey, for all you freelancers out there, Rachel also provides some eye-opening tips on working effectively with freelancers and avoiding common struggles. So whether you're just starting out or looking to amp up your fashion freelancing game, this episode has got you covered with expert advice from the one and only Rachel Batterbee! Our Industry Expert in thi