The Successful Fashion Designer

Discover how Gabriella Bilotta transformed a heartfelt LinkedIn message into a six-figure client! In this episode, Gabriella shares her journey of building genuine connections, landing high-paying clients, and transitioning to full-time freelancing. She dives into her background in lingerie and sustainability, the value of mentorship with her coach Alison, and the role personal branding played in her success.Gabriella also unpacks her strategies for pricing, networking, and fostering meaningful client relationships. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your freelancing game, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a thriving career.If you’re ready to learn how authentic connections and smart strategies can transform your freelancing journey, click play now and start building your dream career today!About Gabriella:Gabriella Bilotta is a freelance women’s tailoring and contour technical designer based in Toronto, Canada. Passionate about sustainable sourcing, she exce

Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your favorite podcast? In today's episode, I’m sharing some exciting updates for the Successful Fashion Designer Podcast in 2025 and reflecting on the challenges I faced in 2024. From business hurdles to personal struggles, I’ll dive into what I learned and how those lessons can help you navigate your own journey as we head into the new year.Join me as I share the highs, lows, and everything in between, and let’s get ready for an amazing 2025! 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.

Walking into a tradeshow with no idea where to start can be intimidating!As a freelancer, having a plan of action for the next fashion trade show you attend can make all the difference. In this episode, I talk live with Andreu David, the Vice President of Sourcing at MAGIC, to get insights from an industry expert on how to make the most of a trade show. Andreu covers everything from understanding market levels and price points to the importance of factory operations and the benefits of attending trade shows. Discover how AI and 3D technology are shaping the future of fashion, and learn about the critical emphasis on sustainability and ethical production practices. Andreu also offers invaluable advice for freelancers and entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for transparency, trust, and strategic networking in building successful industry relationships. If you're in the fashion game, you can't afford to miss his insider tips on working with suppliers, the perks of attending trade shows, and the crucial role of

Freelancing in fashion might seem risky, but what if it didn’t have to be? You could replace or even exceed your corporate salary in just one month. In this episode, we will share how Aiden got noticed on Upwork, even without ratings. You’ll learn the negotiation tips that helped her turn a $2,000 offer into a $5,000 win. Aiden will also explain how she set up her profile so brands find and contact her, which means she doesn’t have to pitch herself anymore.If you’re tired of the stressful corporate world or feel overlooked by junior designers in interviews, you will enjoy this episode.Resources:Check out Aidenn's Upwork profile here to learn more about their work and services!About Aidenn:Aidenn is an accomplished Fashion Designer with expertise in design, sourcing, and product development. She has led successful product launches, built strategic vendor partnerships, and excels in cost reduction, quality control, and team collaboration. By leveraging user experience insights and new technologies, Aidenn consi

How do you compete with low prices on Upwork? Is a bargain the only thing clients will look for?I did an experiment and hired 5 freelancers at 5 different price points to see what you get for a tech pack at each level. The results are shocking and entertaining. Stick with me as I walk through the results, explaining why these low-priced options can lead to big problems for clients and why you shouldn't undervalue your own work. By the end, you'll see why quality tech packs are worth the investment and why it's okay to charge what you're worth. Resources:Watch the full video on YouTube: I Paid 5 Strangers on Upwork To Design a SweaterDownload my Tech Pack TemplateGrab my Guide to Pricing your Freelance Services ✍️ Fill out the Survey: http://sewheidi.com/survey

Starting with set package rates might feel tempting, but it’s like trying to sew a wedding dress on your first try—it’s better to start small and build up your skills.In today's episode, I'll share a better strategy for finding your pricing sweet spot and how to handle those tricky conversations when clients think your rates are too high.  We'll uncover the nuances of custom versus package pricing, how to gauge client reactions, and strategies to ensure your services demonstrate clear value and more. Boost your confidence and revenue as a freelance fashion designer by hitting play to learn these strategies for pricing and communicating your value. Resources:How to Raise Your Freelance Rates in Fashion

Ever had a client respond with, "Wow, that's a bit steep"? If you’re charging you're worth, you’ve probably seen that reaction before. But there are some easy ways to help clients get on board with your deserved rates. Take Alison Pickthorn, for instance. She’s a student in my hands-on coaching program, Fast Track Turbo, and she just landed a $15,000 client. She chats about maintaining fair pricing, understanding your value, and how crafting a compelling, client-specific proposal can make all the difference.  This episode is all about finding fulfillment, mastering the freelancer hustle, and staying true to your worth! Listen now to get inspired by Alison's proactive hustle, the incredible support from a coaching program, and the rewarding freedom of freelance life that reignited her passion for design. Resources:235: What If A Brand Says You’re Too Expensive? Here’s How You Still Get the ClientAbout Allison:Allison is an apparel designer with over 20 years of experience designing kids, baby, and licensed app

This is Part 2 of my interview with Jonathan Stark.If you're pricing hourly, you're potentially leaving a lot of money on the table in your freelance fashion design biz.In this episode, business coach Jonathan Stark talks about value-based pricing. He shares his journey from charging by the hour to adopting a pricing strategy focusing on what clients truly value. From aligning services with client revenue goals, to three-tier value pricing strategies, to becoming meaningfully different, get ready to uncover some key insights that could totally change the way you think about pricing and your relationships with clients.If you're ready to shift your perspective on pricing and client engagement from transactional to transformational, get inspired by real-life examples, practical tips, and the psychological underpinnings that make value-based pricing a winning strategy, click play now and significantly increase your profits.Resources:Value Pricing Bootcamp, a free six-day email course to teach you how to make more

If you're pricing hourly, you're potentially leaving a lot of money on the table in your freelance fashion design biz.In this episode, business coach Jonathan Stark talks about value-based pricing. He shares his journey from charging by the hour to adopting a pricing strategy focusing on what clients truly value. From aligning services with client revenue goals, to three-tier value pricing strategies, to becoming meaningfully different, get ready to uncover some key insights that could totally change the way you think about pricing and your relationships with clients.If you're ready to shift your perspective on pricing and client engagement from transactional to transformational, get inspired by real-life examples, practical tips, and the psychological underpinnings that make value-based pricing a winning strategy, click play now and significantly increase your profits.Resources:Value Pricing Bootcamp, a free six-day email course to teach you how to make more money without working more hours.Book: Value Based

Can a LinkedIn post really transform your freelance fashion design career?In today's episode, I talk with fashion designer Fernanda Martinelli about how one Linkedin post took off and helped land her a client!  We discuss the strategies for leveraging a popular post and how to turn new leads into dream clients.  Find out how she builds meaningful client relationships, leveraging tools like AI-generated images and detailed proposals.Whether you're new to freelancing or have been around for a while, these social media strategies can make a huge difference in your client-finding strategies!  Resources:Read Fernanda’s LinkedIn post that led to three discovery calls with brands and an amazing client. Check out NewArc.ai. Please note that this is an affiliate link.About Fernanda:Fernanda, originally from Argentina, graduated with a Bachelor’s in Fashion and Textile Design from the University of Buenos Aires. Now based in Canada, she has worked as a Fashion Designer and Product Developer since 2019, specializing in

Are you scared of getting scammed from factories?  Here are the red flags you should look out for.Natalie is a corporate fashion designer turned freelance after some major burnout and the pandemic.  In this episode, she talks about things like how she got her clients, some sourcing red flags to look out for, how she sets her prices, and so much more. Natalie's story shows how she bounced back and came up with fresh ideas, how she's making customized mini portfolios, and how she landed gigs through smart outreach.This episode is packed full of inspiration for your freelance journey in fashion!  Listen now to discover strategies for finding legitimate factories, avoiding scams, and pricing your freelance work confidently.Resources:Explore different examples of Natalie's mini portfolios Download Natalie's project pricing calculator About Natalie:Since graduating from fashion school, Natalie always aspired to be a freelance designer. After spending over a decade climbing the corporate ladder in NYC and burning ou

What do you do when the brand says you're too expensive but you know you're the right person for the gig?That's exactly what one of my FAST Track Turbo students, Allison Pickthorn experienced!  We worked out her pricing strategy and with some savvy negotiation, she landed a $15,000 project!  We break down all the strategies and mindset shifts that eventually got her the project, her experience with client negotiations, and the surprising twist involving an Indian manufacturer and a retailer right in her own backyard.Allison also shares her thoughts on why it's crucial to stand firm on your worth and how to put together portfolio teasers that can tip the scales in your favor. Whether you're curious about freelance pricing, dealing with international clients, or just love a good success story, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the small yet significant steps that make a big difference in landing high-ticket projects.About Allison:Allison is an apparel designer with over 20 years of experience desi

How do you go from fashion freelancer to owning a design agency?We're breaking it down in today's episode with guest Lindsay Kondel who did exactly that!  In our chat, she shares her journey, from starting out as a head designer at an activewear label to leveraging Instagram and networking to build her agency.  Also find out why collaboration trumps competition, especially in the dynamic world of fashion design. Whether you're a freelancer or an agency owner, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world experiences to help you elevate your fashion business. Resources:117: How to Quit Your Full Time Fashion Job and Start FreelancingCheck out the Instagram of Streetwear of Roses!About Lindsay:Lindsay Kondel is the cofounder of Stacked, a full-service fashion design agency. Stacked helps create killer fashion brands, working with both emerging and established labels. The agency bridges the gap between creative vision and commercial outcome through "stackable" services, allowing clients to cherry-

What if you could break the feast or famine freelance cycle with one simple mindset shift?I talked with Kyle Kushner, a coach for freelance and entrepreneurial creatives, and we had some very interesting discussions around this topic and much more.Kyle opens up about overcoming self-doubt and embracing an entrepreneurial mindset. He talks about how to promote ourselves, boost confidence, and form genuine, non-transactional connections on LinkedIn. And you gotta hear Kyle's awesome journey from feeling nervous and undercharging to doubling his rates and locking in an eight-year business partnership. The episode also dives into killer strategies for proactive networking and the game-changing power of shifting your mindset.Ready to transform your professional presence and skyrocket your freelance career? Listen now to start optimizing your client-finding strategies. Resources:Listen to Podcast Episode 166 with Aashika: This Fashion Freelancer Changed ONE Thing On LinkedIn and Got More ClientsCheck out Justin Wel

Curious about turning freelancing into a stable career? It's possible with the help of these secrets on pricing, Upwork strategies, and LinkedIn hacks with today's guest, Rachel Kranick. She shares real talk on ghosted clients, work-life balance, and leveraging her previous experience. Plus, get tips on staying financially savvy and embracing the freedom of freelancing. Don’t miss this inspiring career pivot story!Whether you're wondering if making the leap into freelancing is possible, or a seasoned freelancer, this episode is filled with gold nuggets of strategies that can have a big impact on your career.  You'll definitely want to listen to this one!Resources:Read the LinkedIn post about Rachael's Hawaii trips and freelance journey.Listen to the strategy session I had with Rachael in 2023.About Rachael:Rachael is a senior activewear designer with over 12 years of experience, working with brands like Nike, Travis Mathew, and MonoB.An outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys camping, hiking, paddleboarding, and drago

What if getting new projects was as easy as sending a quick catch-up message?You've got a hidden goldmine in your network, and today we talk about how to tap into those connections without feeling awkward or annoying. This clip is from a strategy session with one of my FAST students, Daniella Kahle, where we talk about the simple strategies you can use to reconnect with old industry connections.We give some real-life examples of how reconnecting pays off, sometimes in unexpected ways. From dusting off old LinkedIn connections to sending casual text messages, it's all about human-to-human rapport. Imagine getting project referrals just from catching up! Plus, find out why big brands and niche markets both offer potential freelance gigs. Whether you're just starting out or looking to level up, you won't want to miss these insider tips. 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 cl

Today we're flipping the script and interviewing the host, Heidi - part 2!One of our FAST students approached with the idea of interviewing Heidi and they talk about naysayers, email etiquette, and the hurdles of scaling a business. We tackled the reality of failures and why resilience is key. We also shared candid stories about hiring struggles and overcoming confidence issues, especially when it comes to pricing. Remember, the right support system can push you beyond your limits.Resources:Part 1:  229: Special Episode: Heidi Gets Interviewed (part 1)SFD100 To Reach Your Goals in Fashion (and Life), Just Do ANYTHING

Today we're flipping the script and interviewing the host, Heidi!One of our FAST students approached with the idea of interviewing Heidi.  We talk about the highs and lows of running an online business, from epic launch events to the emotional rollercoasters that come with it. You'll hear about my transition from freelancing to a successful online business, the impact of therapy, and the crucial support systems that made it all possible. Plus, there's a juicy insider tip on the art of interviewing—think curiosity over scripted questions. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or just love a good success story, this episode is packed with insights that will leave you inspired and ready to tackle your own dreams.

If you want to scale your freelance fashion design business, there are three strategies you need to know.Everyone's path can look different but Connie Bourgeois turned her side-gig freelance biz into a million-dollar agency in four short years.  With the right strategies and hard work, you can grow your fashion design business, too.  And if it all seems too good to be true, don't worry, because we are also diving into some of the cold hard truths that are the realities of growing a business.Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, this episode is packed with client-finding strategies you can put to use today!  Hit play and kick-start your freelance growth.Resources:SFF147: "I turned my side hustle into my full-time hustle."About Connie: Connie Bourgeois founded Conjetta Designs to support designers and entrepreneurs by making their apparel dreams a reality! By sharing her extensive knowledge of design, development, sourcing, logistics, merchandising, and brand building, with both her team and her

Building relationships even when you don't need that connection immediately is super important for your freelance career.  There are easy strategies to start building relationships with factories or suppliers before you need to work with them.  Not only will this help you be prepared, but that factory could also send clients to you.  We have several students in FAST who get clients from factories.  In this episode, you'll get to hear a clip from a strategy session I had with Marco who recently went to a trade show and made some connections with factories.We go over some solid strategies for building relationships without directly asking for work.  Following strategically, mastering the back door brag, and customizing your communication are essential tactics to create lasting impressions and open doors to new opportunities.Resources:Freelancing Strategies for Fashion Designers with Marissa BorelliAbout Marco:Marco's passion for sneakers and fashion grew from his involvement in club soccer and athletics. He obt