Designing = Inspiration + Lots of Hard Work
Designing is an interesting process that is one part inspiration and several parts knowledge and hard work.
All year long I am dreaming of new ideas, and making sketches in a big black journal. Six months before the products are stocked and ready to buy, I begin researching top fashion trends from the streets to the runway. I follow my own inspiration and aesthetic, but trend watching is an integral part of designing.
Once I get my juices flowing, I escape to a peaceful place, usually outdoors, and I start to think about themes and feelings. I tear out pages in magazines that inspire me. At this point I am thinking very abstractly, just about colors, shapes and textures.
After, I have developed the vision for the next line, I do another set of sketches of preliminary ideas.
After sketching, comes the technical part, pattern making. There are two types of ways to make a pattern: by draping the fabric on a dress form and by creating paper patterns. I do a combination of both. As I make my pattern, I make a sample garment in muslin (a 100% un-bleached cotton fabric). As I sew and drape the fabrics, my designs may change slightly. I am not committed to my design, but I am committed to creating flattering garments.
As I am working on my designs, I am also thinking about my fabrics: colors and patterns. After working with my suppliers in India, I place my fabric order, send my patterns and samples to India and I am done.
Just kidding, there is no done! Once production begins, I am in constant contact via Skype and email. I have to be available at odd hours (Indian time) to answer questions and make sure everything is going smoothly. It is a long process, but once the final products arrive, it is very rewarding!
Oh and don't forget to vote for us as RAW's Fashion Designer of the year! Click here to vote.
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