Do You Make Clothes?

Hey y’all and once again, welcome back to Na’KeilStyles. This post will be a little different form the previous posts I’ve made, so bear with me.

One question that I have always been asked since studying Fashion Merchandising is “Do you want to be a designer/make clothes?” One major misconception about fashion majors is that we all do not want to be designers lol. There are many more positions in the industry than just a fashion designer or a sales associate in a retail store. There are so many options for individuals who choose this career path, because there are several lanes to take in this industry. But for the sake of the post we’re gonna talk about designing today.

For a while, I thought that if I were to go into fashion as a career path that I would have to be a designer, which was something that I had wanted at the time. However, after careful consideration and deeper investigation into my career options, I have realized that I do not want to be a designer. Don’t get me wrong, I have made garments and enjoyed that satisfaction that I feel when I see the final product. But now that I have gotten that experience, I know it’s not something I could do for the rest of my life. If I make clothes, it’ll be for my own personal enjoyment, rather than a permanent form of income.

Even though designing is not for me, I commend the the people out there who use designing as their form if free expression and have made it their career of choice. I’ve had the opportunity to meet designers, befriend designers, and grow up with designers and each experience I’ve had I learned.

I had the opportunity to interview an up and coming designer who gave me some insight into her journey. Auzsa Rae Taylor, currently residing in Chicago, IL has been making strides to build her own brand through gaining her degree in fashion design, networking opportunities, collaborating with other creatives, and designing new garments when she’s not on the go. Her drive and determination is admirable to say the least and has truly helped me in my own journey of self exploration.

What made you want to be a designer? "I have no clue what made me want to be a designer. All I know is, when I was around ten, I asked my mom for a sewing machine for Christmas and the rest is history."

Do you have aspirations to have your own company someday or be a part of a larger corporation? "I would like to own my business. I'd rather create what is aesthetically pleasing to me. That way the success or failure is in my own hands."

What are the drawbacks if any, that you face in your career path? "One of the main drawbacks for wanting to start my own brand would be how expensive it is. Also, being open to others that want to help. Another drawback is just being able to juggle all the different caps you have to wear. I am a designer. I’m not an accountant, marketer, social media maven, etc. so it becomes a hectic lifestyle and a huge learning experience."

Does having a support system influence your determination for success? "Honestly, for myself, I don't feel that it influenced me to do what I wanted to do. In the beginning a lot people didn't want me to leave [Springfield] and felt that I wouldn't do the things I said I would. So, the moment I left was the moment I left needing others approval of my overall goal. I just had to put my words into action and now they're starting to catch on. You have to be your biggest support system in this industry. If not, it will eat you alive"

How important is it to make connections and network in the fashion industry? "It is very important to make connections in this industry. This is an industry that thrives off of personal opinions. Just because you are a great seamstress doesn't mean everyone will catch on to your design aesthetic. You meet so many dope people in this industry and some will genuinely push and support your moment."

Do you feel that your education in fashion design aided in perfecting your skills? "I feel technically, my schooling helped perfect my technological skills. I was exposed to programs used in the industry that industry professionals use. As far as my designs and concepts are concerned, I feel my creativity was brought to a stand still. Many of my teachers would try to change my designs to what they thought was aesthetically pleasing to them. Also, I wish my school was open to more couture designs, it was more RTW (ready to wear) base."

What advice would you give to aspiring designers? "Even though it may look impossible and out of reach, always strive for greatness. Never stop, because it's too expensive, no one is pushing you, or you're too busy. Your dreams and aspirations in life are worth more than all of those things put together if you believe in yourself. Life is about creating your own happiness. So always aspire to inspire. Be humble and stay kind."

While I may not have found my creative space to be designing, I do think that her advice and experiences are true examples of what trusting in yourself can do. I hope this chat we had helps you fellow creatives decide what path is right for you. Please do me a favor and follow Auzsa on instagram @cocky_art. We have to support each other if we all want to see success. Thanks for coming back everyone.