Job Description
Fashion designers design clothing and accessories, creating original clothes according to market demands. Most fashion designers, however, work for apparel manufacturers, creating designs of men’s, women’s, and children’s fashions for the mass market. People in the fashion industry work for magazines, television shows, public relations firms and salons. Because style and fashion trends change quickly, fashion designers must work hard to stay in tune and change with the market.

Median Annual Salary
$62,610

Educational Requirements
Education in the field often requires a two- or four-year degree, including some training in textiles, fabrics, and ornamentation, as well as fashion. Fashion Design students should expect to study creative design and drawing, pattern-making and sewing, management, and commercial realism, to name just a few.

Job Outlook
Employment of fashion designers is projected to grow 5 percent between 2006 and 2016, more slowly than the average for all occupations. Job growth will stem from a growing population demanding more clothing, footwear, and accessories. Demand is increasing for stylish clothing that is affordable, especially among middle income consumers. However, employment declines in cut and sew apparel manufacturing are projected to offset job increases among apparel wholesalers.