Do you need to have formal education to be a lingerie designer ?
While studying lingerie design at a university can certainly provide you with valuable knowledge and skills, it is not necessarily a requirement to become a lingerie designer. Many successful designers in the fashion industry have pursued different paths to develop their expertise.
So how do you know if it right for you?
From past experience and dealing with clients I think you need to know what type of design you want to do? Do you want to go work for a company or do you want to launch your own lingerie brand?
Here are a few considerations to help you decide:
Formal Education: Studying lingerie design at a university or a fashion school can offer structured learning, exposure to industry professionals, and access to resources like specialised equipment and design software. You can learn about fabric selection, pattern-making, garment construction, and gain insights into the lingerie industry. It can give you contacts, and from experience often companies won’t look at you unless you have a degree in lingerie design, that’s not to say you won’t get a look in but I think it’s a lot harder as the market is saturated.
Alternative Education: If formal education is not feasible for you, there are alternative avenues to gain knowledge and skills. You can consider online courses, workshops, internships, apprenticeships, or self-study. These options allow you to learn at your own pace and tailor your education to your specific interests. If you are wanting to launch your own brand then I think this option is totally viable. Remember formal education will cost you approx £9000 each year so by learning what you just need to know you will save that way, I do suggest however you have a plan on what you need to know or follow a mentor who will guide you through the quickest path and offer great advice. I have had mentors in the past who have been invaluable. How to pick a mentor? Check what they have done in the past, do they know the answers you need? And the most important I think is do you resonate with them, are they ‘your type of person’ ?
Practical Experience: Hands-on experience is crucial in the fashion industry. Regardless of your educational background, gaining practical experience through internships, part-time jobs, or personal projects is highly beneficial. Working with established designers, manufacturers, or retailers can provide invaluable insights into the design process, production, and business aspects of the lingerie industry. I learn so much in my first job which was a lingerie UK manufacturer, and often would wander into the factory to try and learn how the process worked,.I would speak to the line manager to talk about which stitch was quicker to get through the manufacturing although my job didn’t entail this I would try and learn as much as possible. If time or location doesn’t allow for hands on experience I would seek out courses you can attend in person to learn more and gain as much as you can from the tutor teaching you.
Personal Skills and Creativity: Lingerie design requires creativity, a keen eye for detail, an understanding of fabrics, and the ability to translate ideas into wearable garments. Developing these skills can be achieved through various means, including personal experimentation, practice, and continuous learning. As with all jobs there are going to be some natural designers but remember there can be many different designers within the industry, for example I love mixing colours in my lingerie design and using certain fabrics, however this isn’t to everyones design for their brand ,so some jobs I will excel than others.
Personally I value creativity, innovation, and a strong portfolio more than formal qualifications alone. While a university education can provide a solid foundation, practical experience, networking, and showcasing your design skills are equally important for establishing yourself as a lingerie designer.
If you need any technical help, then please do look at the website to see what you can learn and as always happy to help with any advice you need.
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