Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Gmrsgyrl,

This is a very difficult question to answer because, like all creative fields, salaries vary greatly.

A designer's salary depends primarily on experience.There are numerous job titles in the fashion business but most designers adhere to the following career path. Typically graduates of top fashion schools start out as design room assistants. After they gain knowledge and experience they are promoted to assistant designers, then associate designers, and later to designers. Ultimately the best become senior designers who develope entire fashion lines.

Salaries for these five positions vary greatly, especially the higher up the career ladder you go. Entry level positions typically start at $350 - $500 per week while top senior designers can make $2,000 - $3,000 a week and more. There is a lot of money in the fashion business and designers certainly get their share.

While the career of a fashion designer can be a lucrative one, it is not always easy to get started. A good education will give you the knowledge and computer skills needed to start an exciting career. A good placement department will use its contacts to get you interviews with the top designers in the industry.

If you would like more information about specific job titles and potential salaries, contact FIDM and an advisor will be happy to discuss this with you.

Thanks for your letter,