What is the hardest part about being a fashion designer?
In my experience, the hardest part of being a designer is having faith that your efforts will come to fruition. Many of us go through various moments where we are uncertain regarding some designs or ideas (designer block), therefore we allow mental breakdowns to creep in and prevent achieving our goals. Sometimes this could be because of the people around you or the type of environment that you are in. However, whatever the situation is, trusting yourself and putting yourself out there for the world to see your creativity is the best part of improving your confidence. Numerous mundane aspects of life can be utilised to attract positive energy with the most basic being a walk in the park. You go for walks, take fresh air, or even a mug of coffee with Korean dramas could be the best remedy for this. I also believe that the hardest part of being a fashion designer is being able to come up with an idea or concept that could be changed into designs (this is one of the biggest difficulties I face when I am going through designer block). Trends are moving so fast in this generation, with new trends popping up out of nowhere. This is why research is such an important factor when designing. To help widen your research you could always make a mind map. Starting with one word and linking another word that connects with the first one, that creates a road to follow for research.
How did you get into fashion design?
I got into fashion design when I took textiles as one of my subjects for GCSE. As part of my school trip, I was taken to view an exhibition on Alexandra McQueen which was based here in London. I loved the idea of emotions, feelings, and speaking out loud about political thoughts could be represented and spoken about through the representation of art and designing. Being present in that show laid the foundation of my future endeavours in fashion. As time flowed I increased the skills in my arsenal and through this act of achievement I obtained a sense of motivation to show the world my creativity.
What does designing consist of?
Idea/Concept – Starting from the beginning, designing consists of coming up with a concept. An idea that will be shown within your designs.
Research – The most important factor. This is because a lot of your ideas get improved through continuous research.
Rough Ideas – One of my favorite parts of this process is designing. all the research collected and used to design quick sketches, pulling out the main bits that stand out within your research.
Developed ideas – Some rough ideas do not need further development, therefore they could go straight to making. However, if you’re making a collection, your ideas have to be developed to show your concepts through your designs.
Fabric Resourcing – Researching fabric types, colours, and patterns that will represent your designs. Fabric resourcing is also one of my favourite things, as I go into fabric shops and get as many samples as I can.
Pattern cutting/making – Pattern cutting is a process where you take your designs and make them into the fabric. The first step is to draw a pattern on paper which then transforms on fabric.
Presenting your outcome – The fashion show is one of the ways of presenting your creativity, however, media and social media have advanced so much that you can show anywhere.
Are you inspired by Ravina’s designing journey and would like to check out more? Take a look at her Instagram, @Kazimcouture.
