Content

• To step
• Tips
• Warnings
• Necessities

Whether you want to design your own clothes or start a fashion label, designing clothes takes creativity and dedication. Here's how to get started.

To step

1. Get inspired. Look for fabrics, objects or people that inspire you to create a new piece of clothing. Search online or in magazines for contemporary or retro trends that you would like to include in your designs. Try visiting craft stores or fabric stores to find samples or ideas that can form the basis of an entire garment.
2. Start drawing. You can draw on paper or with a computer program. Either way, start drawing a simple human body. It does not have to be anatomically correct, as long as it is a stable base for you to design clothes on. Sketch the basic shape of the garment you want to design, starting with big ideas and adding details as you refine the drawing.
3. Add color. Much of the success of your design can depend on the colors you use. Think about the intended purpose of the garment and how you might envision someone wearing it. Then you choose colors accordingly. Try to combine unexpected color combinations to add an element of surprise to your design.
4. Make use of accessories. Complete your design by adding accessories such as belts, scarves, jewelry, hats or shoes. Choose items that are compatible with the overall theme of the garment. You can also add a hairstyle or facial expression to the drawing.
5. Learn to sew. Learn basic sewing skills so you can bring your designs to life. Learn how to sew with patterns so that you can eventually design your own. As your talents improve, you may feel more inspired by different stitches and techniques.
6. Choose a fabric. Consider texture and fluidity of the fabric in relation to your pattern. Buy extra fabric, as you may need more during assembly, as well as embellishments such as buttons, lace, beads, or embroidery floss.
7. Assemble your design. Once you know how to sew and design a pattern, build your design. You may want to use a mannequin to create a basic shape.
8. Create a portfolio. Keep a collection of designs in a folder or book for future inspiration. Consider having a sketchbook with you at all times so you can jot down ideas as they come to mind.
9. Promote your designs. When you are confident that your designs are good and the garments wearable, consider displaying your work on sites that share fashion designs online. This can help you gain exposure and build your career.

Tips

• Make sure this is something you will keep doing. It would be a shame to buy stuff and not use it.
• Take art classes to help draw basic models.
• Take accurate measurements of the person who will be wearing your design.
• Don't invest in a big purchase like a sewing machine if you've never used one or are only making a single garment. Just borrow one from a friend or family member.
• Think about the texture and the fabric and whether it will be strong, durable, non-shrinking.
• Ask for help from someone more experienced.
• Find colors that go well together, such as zebras and brownish hues, or black or white with a bright rose or blue.
• Check out different designers on Google for inspiration and ideas.
• Make sure you have enough material for your clothes.

Warnings

• Be careful with sharp and hot tools, such as scissors, needles or an iron.

Necessities

• Paper
• Pencil and eraser
• Crayons
• Folder or book
• Dust
• Decorations
• Sewing supplies
• Sewing machine
• Colored pens