Fashion Design Schools in North Carolina

Whether you want to design the outerwear that gets people through the cold season, formalwear that makes a statement at major events, or kids' clothes that get passed down through the years, a degree in fashion design may be where your new career starts! There are many degree programs that focus on fashion design in North Carolina, so you can begin with the training and experience you need.

State License Requirements

Education Details

Depending on your current level of education and relevant experience, you may earn an Associate's degree, Bachelor's degree, or Master's degree. No matter which type of degree you decide to earn, you'll likely study the same subjects. Areas covered in fashion design include pattern drafting, draping, clothing sewing, fitting, and fashion illustration. It's clear that you need to take a healthy variety of classes to meet these learning goals.

Some of the courses you may take include

• Fashion Illustration
• Pattern Making
• History of Fashion
• Computed-Aided Fashion Design
• Tailoring
• Textiles

These courses may develop your knowledge as well as your practical skills. The time spent in school may be split between the classroom and the design studio. Once of the most important parts of your fashion design degree is your design portfolio. Your portfolio is created over the course of your degree. It is meant to showcase the breadth of your skills and display your very best works. Your portfolio may be used to help you find an internship or even a job!

License Renewal

North Carolina Fashion Design Careers

If you're willing to travel around North Carolina to find a fashion design job, you may be able to take advantage of a great job outlook. North Carolina's largest cities have a prominent fashion design community. With the variety of employers in North Carolina, you may be able to find rewarding fashion work. The salary you earn as a fashion designer depends on your experience, specialty, and level of education. O*Net reports that the average salary for a North Carolina fashion designer is $54,040 per year. (O*Net, 2016) There are fashion associations throughout the state that may help you network with other design professionals. The Raleigh Fashion Association supports economic development of the fashion industry throughout North Carolina. You may be able to learn about new job opportunities and events as a member.

Fashion designers and their skills are used in many different industries and work settings in North Carolina. Many designers dream of working for high-end clothing companies and designers. However, there are many larger employers in North Carolina. These employers include wholesaling companies, retail chain stores, and costuming companies. If you're business-minded, you may choose to become a self-employed or freelance fashion designer. Go Upstate reports on Project Handmade 2014, an annual juried fashion show that takes place in North Carolina. Independent fashion designers from throughout the state came together to make clothing from various textiles, repurposed materials, and local goods. Participating in events like this can help you make a name for yourself and become a well-known part of the fashion community. Particularly in the early days of your fashion design career, you may call work your second home. Designers tend to work long, erratic hours that include night and weekend shifts. However, being flexible and willing to adjust to your employer's needs can make you a valuable part of the team! Showing up whenever you're needed can show your dedication to the field. Putting in the work and hours can help you become a prominent designer in your area.

Contact the North Carolina State Board of Fashion Design