The Successful Fashion Designer

Sourcing in your freelance fashion career is a lot like matchmaking!  You want to make good connections that align well with your client's brand. You can build a great career by thinking strategically and approaching sourcing with care.Once you identify that sourcing isn't just about finding products or services; it's about creating valuable connections and delivering exceptional results, you can strategically start setting your clients up for success. Get ready for insights and practical tips on navigating the sourcing process, set transparent expectations with clients, and conduct thorough due diligence to ensure the best possible outcomes.  You'll gain a deep understanding of the strategic and relational elements involved in successful sourcing, making this episode a must-listen for anyone in the fashion world.Resources:SFF156: Jay Arbetman How to Source Fabrics for Your Freelance Clients Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (eve

If you're new to the fashion industry or unsure of your skills but want to start as a freelancer, you may consider being a fashion virtual assistant (VA) and earning while you learn.  Find out how you can transform your soft skills into hard cash. You don't need to be a super tech genius to work as a virtual assistant in the fashion industry; basic tech skills and a willingness to learn as you go are enough to get started. Tons of business owners are bogged down with tasks they can do, but do not have the time for.  The VA industry isn't just about ticking off tasks. It *thrives* on soft skills like organization, a knack for creativity, and, oh yes, being a little tech-savvy! So if you have what it takes, you can thrive as a fashion virtual assistant and start earning while you develop your fashion design skills.About Aubree:Aubree Malick is a boy mom, former teacher, virtual assistant coach, and host of the Freelancer to CEO podcast. Through her podcast and programs, she helps overworked and underpaid moms a

Knowing how to add value to your clients without sacrificing your mental health is a lesson many freelance fashion designers learn on their freelancing journey.  It's all too easy to listen to self-doubt and let imposter syndrome creep in which ultimately will lead to resentment, burnout, or missing out on huge opportunities. So how can you land freelance gigs from big names while overcoming challenges such as low self-esteem and even geographical constraints?It's easier than you may think! Our guest, Harshini, is a fashion designer who landed a job with WGSN despite their minimal presence in India and lack of a head office in her home country. She has also faced familiar mindset issues that can hold us back, which led her to low-paying clients and work she grew to hate. In this podcast episode, you can listen to the strategies she implemented to change the trajectory of her career which enabled her to outsource work, increase her rates, and secure higher-paying projects. You will also learn about the challen

Let's talk about two easy but often overlooked strategies to avoid the freelancing roller coaster of making $3,000 1 month and a $100 the next, and you're left wondering where your next fashion design is project coming from.By implementing these practical strategies in this episode of Fashion Designers Get Paid, you'll position yourself as the kind of freelancer that brands want to hire again and again, ultimately leading to more referrals and ongoing projects.So, if you're ready to start earning consistent income as a freelance fashion designer, hit play and start putting these strategies into action today.Mentioned in this Episode:Podcast Episode with Hillary Glenn - How to Build Your Career as a Contract Fashion Designer (and work from home) 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 kickstart your freelance career while learning a new industry skill, like Clo3D?In this Fashion Designers Get Paid episode, we hear a clip from a strategy session with fashion designer Sharon Hay, who's breaking into fashion from the tech industry and learning Clo3D. So, how can you build your network and line up clients while still learning?It's not about waiting until you're an expert before putting yourself out there. Instead, it's about engaging and sharing what you're working on, starting authentic conversations, and connecting with brands who may need your services down the line.Tune in as we talk about specific strategies to pull this off (and it works for any fashion design niche).  By building a strong network, sharing your learning process, and engaging with others in your industry, you can confidently secure trial projects to refine your skills. So, go ahead and put yourself out there and make meaningful connections!Mentioned in this Episode:If you're going to do LinkedIn, I literally think

Ever feel like one of the biggest roadblocks in your fashion design career is procrastination?If you find yourself reaching for the newest or trendy technology hoping to finally find your holy grail for staying on task (spoiler alert: it wasn't it), then this episode has your name written all over it!  I talk with Grace Brodeur who specializes in helping entrepreneurs overcome procrastination so they can increase their time, financial, and mental freedom.  She shares her insights on setting goals, navigating emotional blocks, and giving procrastination the well-deserved boot.Mentioned in this Episode:EFT Tapping with Brad YatesAbout Grace Brodeur:While getting her Master of Science and working in consulting, Grace experienced ongoing procrastination, deadline crunches, fear, overwhelm, and overthinking that kept her stuck. She could not find comprehensive training that achieved permanent solutions, so she decided to create it herself. Grace is a trauma-informed performance coach who has built a community of o

What if you had to completely restart your fashion career?  And what if you were also faced with a lot of barriers?That's exactly what this fashion designer, mom of two, and my guest, Andressa Iop, faced when she moved from Brazil to the U.S.  Between learning a new language, juggling the hectic schedule of motherhood, and everything else, she found time in the cracks of her day to fit in time to rebuild her fashion career.Andressa shares more about her success and the amazing way she finds time for fashion design.  If you ever wished you could buy a new MAC or make $3k working part-time, then you'll love this episode of Fashion Designers Get Paid.  Hear how she did it and how you can too!About Andressa Iop:Andressa is an exceptional fashion and textile designer with over ten years of experience in the kidswear industry. She specializes in bringing seasonal collections to life, from the initial concept to the final product. Her passion for her work is evident in every detail of her designs, and she offers her

Is freelancing in fashion worth it?If you've ever wondered about being a freelance fashion designer (or PD, TD, patternmaker, etc!) then this episode will shine some light on the pros and cons of freelancing in fashion.  Let's get super clear on what true remote freelancing means so then we can pull back the curtain to reveal all the good and bad that comes with it.  Is freelancing really worth it?  Tune in to find out! 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.

Rejection doesn't have to be synonymous with failure.The truth is, there will always be rejection in your fashion design career and that can be scary (and totally normal!).  But whether you hear a yes or no shouldn't be what determines your success.  In this episode, I talk with Anne Benschop about the fear of rejection and the impact that can have as a freelance fashion designer.  We work on reframing her mindset to measure her success based on her actions, not others'.Don't let the fear of rejection hold you back.  Listen to this episode to learn how you can also reframe your mindset to let go of some of that fear and start making progress in your freelance business.About Anne:Anne is a womenswear designer who is focused on inclusive and sustainable fashion. She is experienced in the whole design process from brainstorming a new collection to product development.  She has worked part-time in customer service and previously experienced the challenges of the fashion industry job market, finding it to be toxic

Woah...did we just crack the code of sales conversations to land more freelance fashion design clients?!If you've ever felt sales conversations were scary or just need to elevate your sales game, then our guest, Nikki Rausch, is here to share her best tips and tricks to help you feel confident in your sales calls.  We talk about navigating the sales staircase framework, using the power of smart questions, and leading the conversation with finesse. Learn how to make your potential clients feel understood, tailor your offers to their needs, and even snag a free gift training on mastering the sales conversation. Get ready to level up your sales game and leave your clients saying "yes" in style! About Nikki Rausch:CEO of Sales Maven, Nikki Rausch has the unique ability to transform the misunderstood process of “selling”. With 25+ years of selling experience, entrepreneurs and small business owners now hire Nikki to show them how to sell successfully and authentically. Nikki has written 3 books, all available on A

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