Seattle Fashion Design: Careers Through Contests

Like other art and entertainment industries, networking can be key to your success in fashion design. But what if you don't know anyone? Everyone starts from somewhere, and fashion design contests can yield very sweet rewards to its winners.

Seattle Success Story

Last year, Emily Miller entered a fashion design contest put on by the Teen Fashion Innovators Search. She just happened to place first, winning a $3,000 scholarship to the Art Institute of Seattle. Sure, $3,000 won't pay all of her tuition--but it's a good start.
Perhaps more important than the scholarship to a fashion college is the reputation that Emily is building. At least a few fashion people in Seattle now know who she is, and publicity like that will only help her career.

Starting a Career in Fashion Design

Entering a contest in fashion not only means great things if you win, but also helps you develop a portfolio. A portfolio is a great resource if you're applying for a job or applying for admission to fashion college. Check your local magazines, art school websites, and community publications for fashion design contests.
While a contest could kick-start your fashion career, the best way to break into fashion design is still to earn your degree from a fashion college. Seattle residents are fortunate to live in a cultural and artistic hub, filled with fashion colleges and art and design schools.
Many Seattle fashion schools offer on-campus degree programs, but don't forget the option of earning your degree in fashion design or fashion marketing online. A good many fashion schools offer online degrees, offering you the flexibility of learning on your own schedule and progressing at your own pace.
Sources
"Budding Designer Wins Seattle Fashion Contest," the Art Institute of Seattle

Joe Cooper is a freelance education and technology writer and edits medical literature. He holds a bachelor's in American Literature from UCLA.