Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing/fashion

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Question
hey ! I 16  years old and  I would like  to own my owm fashion bussiness  .  I am on a good drawer of clothes . what do  i need to do that way i can start my owm business for when i turn 18 years old ? can  you help me ?

Answer
Hello Katie!

Although my area of expertise is more with regards to modeling, I will try my best to answer you.

Most people who wish to work in fashion design attend school for this. There are many well known schools for fashion, such as FIDM, and there are many, many others. Many trade and technical schools also offer classes in fashion design, as do some community colleges.

While it is awesome that you are good at sketching clothing, there is so much more to the business of fashion design. I went to school in the 80's for fashion design with a similar dream, and I learned that drawing the clothing was just a very small part of what I needed to know. I also took classes about textiles (including one about their chemical makeup), fashion writing, history of fashion, business classes, and more.

There are other ways you can get into the industry, and one is as an intern. Many designers, magazines, stylists, etc. have interns or assistants that work for them. This is a great way to see the industry from the inside and network and make some contacts as well. Some students get interning positions through their high school or counselor. Others may get them by responding to an ad or contacting the companies themselves.

Fashion is an exciting industry. Good luck in pursuing your dreams!

All the Best,

Michelle

Careers: Acting, Performing, Directing

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Michelle Renee Krehl

Expertise

I can answer questions relating to most types of fashion and commercial modeling, such as requirements, how to find an agent, etc. as well as information about portfolio development, comp cards, etc.

Experience

I am a professional plus size model, currently based in Los Angeles. I have modeled as both a straight size model, (in my teens and 20's) and as a plus size model (currently). I am represented by a reputable agency and have worked for many clients, both plus and non-plus specific. I am experienced in print, runway, fit, TV, and film.

Publications
I am currently a writer for PLUS Model Magazine. You may read articles I have written in the archives. I generally do pieces relating to fashion events in the Los Angeles area.

Education/Credentials
My educational background is in Child Development. But I also hold a diploma in Fashion Merchandising as well. I have not attended modeling school. Modeling schools are completely unnecessary and a waste of time for potential models. They exist only to make money.

Past/Present Clients
Sears, The Style Network, Lifetime Network, Inchant, Kitsch*n Glam, Zaftique, Plus by Design, Big on Batik, The Greater L.A. Woman, Little In The Middle, Pro-Girl, Deborah Lindquist, Roger Perry, Shop Translated, Redrawn Arts, Big Gals Lingerie, Love Fifi, Here Come the Brides, Josephine's Bridals, California Bridal Shows, The Tyra Banks Show, Inside San Diego, Manhattan Beachwear, and many more.

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