Becoming a successful fashion designer requires a mix of creativity, technical skills, and industry knowledge. While some designers are self-taught, many pursue formal education to refine their craft and gain valuable connections. In this article, we’ll explore the best kinds of fashion designer education—both formal and informal—along with top internships and competitions that can give aspiring designers a competitive edge.
Formal Fashion Design Education
Formal education provides structured training in design principles, textiles, pattern-making, and industry software. Here are some of the most respected pathways to gain entry to the fashion field:
1. Degree Programs
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Fashion Design – Offered by top schools like:
- Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), New York
- Parsons School of Design, New York
- Central Saint Martins (UAL), London
- Istituto Marangoni, Milan
- Associate Degrees & Diplomas – Shorter programs (2 years) that cover fundamentals.
2. Master’s Degrees (MFA or MA in Fashion Design)
For someone looking to specialize or enter high-fashion roles, advanced degrees from top schools are advantageous. Get a top-tier fashion designer education from:
- Royal College of Art (RCA), London
- Antwerp Royal Academy of Fine Arts, Belgium
- Polimoda, Italy
3. Online & Certificate Programs
For more flexible educational opportunities, consider:
- Coursera (Fashion Design courses from Parsons)
- Udemy (Technical skills like Adobe Illustrator for fashion)
- MasterClass (Insights from designers like Marc Jacobs & Diane von Furstenberg)
Informal Learning for Aspiring Designers
Not everyone follows a traditional path—many successful designers are self-taught. From Coco Chanel to Virgil Abloh, some of the biggest names in the industry who didn’t go to fashion school. This may not be the route to success for everyone, but for those with the drive, here’s how to learn fashion design outside of school.
1. Learn from Industry Professionals
- Follow designers on YouTube (e.g., Zoe Hong, The Closet Historian)
- Study fashion history through books (The Fashion System by Roland Barthes, Vogue archives)
2. Develop Technical Skills
- Pattern-making & Draping – Books like Patternmaking for Fashion Design by Helen Joseph-Armstrong
- Sewing – Take local workshops or practice with online tutorials
- Digital Design – Learn Adobe Illustrator, CLO3D, and Photoshop
3. Build a Portfolio
- Create original designs, even if self-taught
- Document your process (sketches, fabric swatches, final garments)
Top Fashion Internships to Boost Your Career
Internships provide hands-on experience and networking opportunities, although they are highly sought after and may require a superior level of skill required to be chosen. (Or, if it’s not what you know, sometimes a “who” helps too.) Some of the most prestigious internships include:
- Chanel Métiers d’Art (Paris) – Focus on craftsmanship
- Dior Internship Program (Global locations)
- Marc Jacobs Internships (New York)
- Prada Group Internships (Milan)
- Alexander McQueen Internship (London)
How to Land an Internship:
✔ Build a strong portfolio
✔ Network at fashion events
✔ Apply early (many deadlines are 6+ months in advance)
Must-Enter Fashion Design Competitions
Winning or even participating in top competitions can launch careers. Some of the most prestigious:
- LVMH Prize – For emerging designers (winners get mentorship & funding)
- CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund (U.S.-based, huge industry recognition)
- International Woolmark Prize – Focus on sustainable & innovative wool designs
- H&M Design Award – For recent graduates
- Redress Design Award – Sustainable fashion competition
These competitions often provide valuable networking opportunities, mentorship, and the chance to see their designs showcased on a larger scale.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose a formal degree or self-directed learning, success in fashion design depends on passion, persistence, and real-world experience. Seek out internships, enter competitions, and continuously refine your skills to stand out in this competitive industry.
Are you pursuing fashion design? Share your journey in the comments!