Define your target, set the rout, and make sure you are Differentiated from others... So you decided to be a fashion designer. You even took the time and money and finished several years of hard studying and hard work and you know now better than ever what you do best ... What you enjoy doing and makes you happy. Now it is time to transform it into your business... First step towards successes is Focus. Every business, yourself included, needs to define exactly what it is its going to do. When Alice (the one form wonderland) arrives at a crossroad and meets the rabbit, she asks him (Mr. Rabbit) if she should take the right or the left turn. She stands in the junction not knowing where she should go... "What is your destination?" Asks the rabbit, "Where would you like to be"? Alice says she does not really know, (nor care). "In that case" the rabbit says, "Take any turn you like. Because if you don't know where you're going or where you want to be it does not matter which turn you take..." Same goes for business and planning. Once you set the target and the destination of you and your venture you will know which turns to take and which decisions to make. Even more importantly, you will know what you should not do and where you should not go. Moreover, many times, that would save you. When you set your target and you know the destination that is when you start planning the rout. It is very important to stick to the rout and to the destination. Do not take turns that will eventually take you elsewhere or you may never get to where you wanted to be. If you are good with women cloth, focus on it. At least until you establish yourself as a known designer. Stay there. Don't do kids, accessories or men fashion even if you have a great idea for an item or a design. Do not think about that extra product or sale you can make. You may "earn a dollar and loose a million" stay focused on your primary target and stick to it with great determination. You also need to be at least a little...unique. As Fashion is all about creation and creativity, you must not be just another fish in the sea. You need to somehow stand out, be Differentiated, and recognizable even in the big ocean of competition. Fashion brands use many tactics to stand out. You can be identified with certain color palate, fabrics, unique items on the products such as special buttons or other visible items. You can use an icon or a special symbol that you can claim as your own. As long as you give your customers something very clear to relate to and identify with. Like the alligator of "Lacoste" and the crazy colors of "Desigual" so does, your work needs to be Identified with you. Be "the brand with flower" or the "one made of Indian red silk". Create a story that can stick and support your doings with every action you take. The possibilities are wide, just make sure you "Mark Yourself". Do not be just "another great designer" , do your best to stand out and not only because you design great fashion A product needs a spirit , and your job is to give it this special unique spirit only your line has so it becomes recognizable and prominent. If you are focused and you walk the path to your predetermined target while being noticeable and prominent, you have a great start to the pick of your journey as a talented rising and successful fashion designer. More to come...
Independent Fashion Designer Guidebook To success – Chapter 2
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