Apparel design

A career in the apparel industry is all about making good use of creative challenges as consumer tastes keep changingboth nationally and internationally. It is also interlinked to the emotional satisfaction of the consumer as the apparel touches the body and appeals to one’s senses. Therefore, apparel design and other careers in this field need to have students who are keen to explore consumer psychology, understand fashion trends, colours and can translate 2D images to 3D dresses that people wear.Fashion education was launched in India in 1986 and almost two-and-a-half decades later, there is increasing awareness among people. Several exhibitions and fashion shows have also contributed to their awareness and in the coming days this sector is set to grow, thus, creating new opportunities for students.

The apparel Industry has two major dimensions. The first concerns addressing the ‘Designed in India’ and ‘Manufactured in India’ apparel to the overseas markets especially the Western countries and the other to the domestic market.

In case of exports, India is facing stiff competition from China, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Cambodia but with India’s inherent strength of fibre to fashion chain, we have an advantage. The domestic market is rising rapidly. Today, nearly 600 million middle class and 500 million youth with aspirations and a good income have the purchasing power, and also because organised retail has come into play.

At the same time, there is an increasing concern about the health of our planet Earth, energy conservation, chemicals in dyes and sustainability factors. These are new trends affecting fashion and in the coming days we will see a keen interest in making organic cotton and eco-friendly garments.

Skill-sets required

Students should have an eye for aesthetics,  interest in predicting trends, observing people, studying history of fashion and clothing and most importantly have a grounding in sound technical skills like illustration, pattern-making, draping and even garment construction. These skills will come in handy as a person moves up the ladder of success.

Remuneration

Remuneration for freshers depends on the field within the apparel industry one wants to join. For example, a designer could start at Rs 15,000 plus whereas a designer merchandiser could start at Rs 20,000 and a person with manufacturing and merchandising knowledge could get anything between Rs 20,000 and 25,000 as it is also a question of demand and supply.

Word for aspirants

My advice to aspirants is to believe in one’s self and be natural in whatever they do. The understanding of design comes through careful observation of people, habitat and technology and the ability to connect dots from different sources including entertainment, music, sports and even politics and environment. Those who connect dots creatively with a business acumen become successful. Most importantly, it is necessary to learn how to communicate with consumers so that they buy your ‘story.’