Pout Magazine | Page 28

How do I know what sizes to make my garments? Consistency in your sizing is extremely important. As a fashion designer, you must determine what your size scale and measurements are going to be. For example, if you are designing Misses skirts, you need to determine what your size 8 waist measurement is going to be. Will the waist measure 27, 28, 30 inches or more? One helpful tip is to measure the garments of your competitors in those sizes. Can I simply draw my designs and pay a factory to make the garments? To learn more, stay in contact with Pamela Renee through POUT MAGAZINE or contact her at [email protected]. PAMELARENEE’ FA S H I O N I N G YO U R D E S I G N S T H E R I G H T WAY Designer Pamela Renee’ Pamela Renee’ Lucas has worked in the fashion industry for 25 years. A native New Yorker and graduate of the prestigious Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City, Lucas has experienced the industry from concept to consumer. Some of the jobs she has held include: technical designer, pattern maker, pattern grader, draper, fashion designer, product merchandiser, fashion design instructor and consultant. Lucas talked with POUT about what it takes to be a designer. Take note, fashion enthusiasts, fashion designers, and tailors, to name a few. Develop your skills and increase your knowledge from someone who has formal education and business experience. As a fashion designer, do I need to know how to sew? Yes. You don’t have to be an expert seamstress, but you must know how a garment is sewn. Cost is the bottom line in any apparel development. As a designer, you made need to manage costs on your designs and garment construction is definitely a major consideration. PHENOMENAL OPTIMISTIC UNIQUE TALENTED HEAVEN HAS HEELS Yes, you can do that. You need to keep one point in mind. You want to make money in your business. So you must know about the process. Every step costs money; from your sketch, to the prototype pattern maker, cutter and sample maker, to the fit model. There is also another whole process concerning the fabrics and materials used. After all the prototype garments are made, next is getting everything production ready. If you decide to send your designs to a factory, make sure they are reputable and you are involved with every step.