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| Nature of the Work |
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Designers are people with a desire to create. They combine practical knowledge with artistic ability to turn abstract ideas into formal designs for the merchandise we buy, the clothes we wear, the publications we read, and the living and office space we inhabit. Designers usually specialize in a particular area of design, such as automobiles, industrial or medical equipment, or home appliances; clothing and textiles; floral arrangements; publications, logos, signage, or movie or TV credits; interiors of homes or office buildings; merchandise displays; or movie, television, and theater sets.
The first step in developing a new design or altering an existing one is to determine the needs of the client, the ultimate function for which the design is intended, and its appeal to customers. When creating a design, designers often begin by researching the desired design characteristics, such as size, shape, weight, color, materials used, cost, ease of use, fit, and safety.
Fashion designers design clothing and accessories. Some high-fashion designers are self-employed and design for individual clients. Other high-fashion designers cater to specialty stores or high-fashion department stores. These designers create original garments, as well as those that follow established fashion trends. Most fashion designers, however, work for apparel manufacturers, creating designs of men's, women's, and children's fashions for the mass market.
Working Conditions
Working conditions and places of employment vary. Designers employed by manufacturing establishments, large corporations, or design firms generally work regular hours in well-lighted and comfortable settings. Self-employed designers tend to work longer hours.
Designers who work on a contract, or job, basis frequently adjust their workday to suit their clients' schedules, meeting with them during evening or weekend hours when necessary. Designers may transact business in their own offices or studios or in clients' homes or offices, or they may travel to other locations, such as showrooms, design centers, clients' exhibit sites, and manufacturing facilities. Designers who are paid by the assignment are under pressure to please clients and to find new ones to maintain a constant income. All designers face frustration at times when their designs are rejected or when they cannot be as creative as they wish. With the increased use of computers in the workplace and the advent of Internet websites, more designers conduct business, research design alternatives, and purchase supplies electronically than ever before.
Occasionally, industrial designers may work additional hours to meet
deadlines. Similarly, graphic designers usually work regular hours, but may work
evenings or weekends to meet production schedules. In contrast, set and exhibit
designers work long and irregular hours; often, they are under pressure to make
rapid changes. Merchandise displayers and window trimmers who spend most of
their time designing space typically work in office-type settings; however,
those who also construct and install displays spend much of their time doing
physical labor, such as those tasks performed by a carpenter or someone
constructing and moving stage scenery. Fashion designers may work long
hours to meet production deadlines or prepare for fashion shows. In addition,
fashion designers may be required to travel to production sites across the
United States and overseas. Interior designers generally work under deadlines
and may work extra hours to finish a job. Also, they regularly carry heavy,
bulky sample books to meetings with clients. Floral designers usually work
regular hours in a pleasant work environment, but holiday, wedding, and funeral
orders often require overtime.
Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement
Creativity is crucial in all design occupations. People in this field must have a strong sense of the esthetic—an eye for color and detail, a sense of balance and proportion, and an appreciation for beauty. Despite the advancement of computer-aided design, sketching ability remains an important advantage in most types of design, especially fashion design. A good portfolio—a collection of examples of a person's best work—often is the deciding factor in getting a job.
A bachelor's degree is required for most entry-level design positions, except for floral design and visual merchandising. Esthetic ability is important for floral design and visual merchandising, but formal preparation typically is not necessary. Many candidates in industrial design pursue a master's degree to better compete for open positions.
Interior design is the only design field subject to government regulation. According to the American Society for Interior Designers, 19 States and the District of Columbia require interior designers to be licensed or registered. Passing the National Council for Interior Design qualification examination is required for licensure. To take the exam, one must complete at least 2 years of postsecondary education in design, at least 2 years of practical work experience in the field, plus additional related education or experience to total at least 6 years of combined education and experience in design. Because licensing is not mandatory in all States, membership in a professional association is an indication of an interior designer's qualifications and professional standing—and can aid in obtaining clients.
In fashion design, employers seek individuals with a 2- or 4-year degree who are knowledgeable in the areas of textiles, fabrics, and ornamentation, as well as trends in the fashion world. Set and exhibit designers typically have college degrees in design. A Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree from an accredited university program further establishes one's design credentials. Membership in the United Scenic Artists, Local 829, is a nationally recognized standard of achievement for scenic designers.
Individuals in the design field must be creative, imaginative, persistent, and able to communicate their ideas in writing, visually, and verbally. Because tastes in style and fashion can change quickly, designers need to be well-read, open to new ideas and influences, and quick to react to changing trends. Problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and under pressure are important traits. People in this field need self-discipline to start projects on their own, to budget their time, and to meet deadlines and production schedules. Good business sense and sales ability also are important, especially for those who freelance or run their own business.
Beginning designers usually receive on-the-job training, and normally need 1
to 3 years of training before they can advance to higher-level positions.
Experienced designers in large firms may advance to chief designer, design
department head, or other supervisory positions. Some designers become teachers
in design schools and colleges and universities. Many faculty members continue
to consult privately or operate small design studios to complement their
classroom activities. Some experienced designers open their own firms.
Earnings
Median annual earnings for fashion designers were $48,530 in 2000. The middle 50 percent earned between $34,800 and $73,780. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $24,710, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $103,970. Median annual earnings were $52,860 in apparel, piece goods, and notions--the industry employing the largest numbers of fashion designers.
source: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos090.htm
Phillip Prince designed for top entertainment personalities like Miles Davis, Madonna, Tony Braxton, Cher, Prince, Jimi Hendrix, Patrice Rushen, and more.
For your costume and custom design needs, professional consultation can be arranged by calling (702)434-8881 Las Vegas, Nevada or email phillip@beverlyhillsscreeningclub.com.
Phillip Prince's current projects can be viewed at:
www.beverlyhillsscreeningclub.com
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