Fashioning a Career in Fashion Design
by Diane Anselmo
With every new season, runways are filled with the latest in fashion. But you may be surprised at just how much work goes into making every outfit and design happen.
Waleed Khairzada, design studio director for Harve Benard, a company that designs outerwear, sportswear, suits, and dresses, shares with us the many phases of fashion.
"As the design studio director, I oversee the workflow of several designers," explains Khairzada. "I act as a go-between -- a liaison, mediator -- making sure that all departments are on the same page."
With such a large staff, the challenge is keeping an idea intact, even after it has been processed by a number of different people. "The president of the company has certain ideas," says Khairzada. "Then there are meetings with designers. We research fabrics, look at other designers and what they've done, and see if we can create a clear translation of the idea we have."
But, Khairzada's job doesn't end there. He also spends time with the director of sales and the director of production making sure that everything is in place for a successful season.
What You Need To Know
"Most people think they know what the fashion world is like, but it isn't always that way," says Khairzada. "The fashion industry is divided into many different segments."
For those who know that fashion's their passion, Khairzada suggests finding a school with just the right program for your fashion needs. "The more focus you have, the better off you are."
And, aside from a solid fashion foundation, says Khairzada, participating in an internship is extremely important. "Through internships, you learn the inner workings of the whole system," he says, "something that school alone cannot provide."
How Much You'll Make
While you may find yourself in a creatively satisfying position upon graduation, don't expect to make a financial fortune right away. Someone fresh out of college in a field related to Khairzada's can expect to earn somewhere between $28,000 and $30,000 a year. Once you have established yourself in the industry, however, the earning possibilities are endless.
What You'll Feel
There are many aspects of his job that Khairzada enjoys, but the best feeling is the satisfaction of seeing a project reach completion. "It's great to see a sample of something created that came from your mind. It's even better to go into a warehouse and see 4,000 of them!" However, Khairzada warns that your creativity may be challenged on the job. "Sometimes the corporate bureaucracy you have to deal with can be frustrating when you are a creative thinker," he explains.
A Final Thought
For those seeking to follow in Khairzada's footsteps, he has some words of encouragement: "It's worth it. Seeing the fruit of your efforts visible -- it's an incredibly overwhelming ride!"
Waleed Khairzada, design studio director for Harve Benard, a company that designs outerwear, sportswear, suits, and dresses, shares with us the many phases of fashion.
"As the design studio director, I oversee the workflow of several designers," explains Khairzada. "I act as a go-between -- a liaison, mediator -- making sure that all departments are on the same page."
With such a large staff, the challenge is keeping an idea intact, even after it has been processed by a number of different people. "The president of the company has certain ideas," says Khairzada. "Then there are meetings with designers. We research fabrics, look at other designers and what they've done, and see if we can create a clear translation of the idea we have."
But, Khairzada's job doesn't end there. He also spends time with the director of sales and the director of production making sure that everything is in place for a successful season.
What You Need To Know
"Most people think they know what the fashion world is like, but it isn't always that way," says Khairzada. "The fashion industry is divided into many different segments."
For those who know that fashion's their passion, Khairzada suggests finding a school with just the right program for your fashion needs. "The more focus you have, the better off you are."
And, aside from a solid fashion foundation, says Khairzada, participating in an internship is extremely important. "Through internships, you learn the inner workings of the whole system," he says, "something that school alone cannot provide."
How Much You'll Make
While you may find yourself in a creatively satisfying position upon graduation, don't expect to make a financial fortune right away. Someone fresh out of college in a field related to Khairzada's can expect to earn somewhere between $28,000 and $30,000 a year. Once you have established yourself in the industry, however, the earning possibilities are endless.
What You'll Feel
There are many aspects of his job that Khairzada enjoys, but the best feeling is the satisfaction of seeing a project reach completion. "It's great to see a sample of something created that came from your mind. It's even better to go into a warehouse and see 4,000 of them!" However, Khairzada warns that your creativity may be challenged on the job. "Sometimes the corporate bureaucracy you have to deal with can be frustrating when you are a creative thinker," he explains.
A Final Thought
For those seeking to follow in Khairzada's footsteps, he has some words of encouragement: "It's worth it. Seeing the fruit of your efforts visible -- it's an incredibly overwhelming ride!"
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