Undergraduate Blog / Career Development

Fashion Production – A Never Changing Industry

Fashion is an industry driven by trends. Of course, strategic marketing can push certain styles into trends, but more or less, consumers triumph all in the industry. Rebecca Taylor is known for its contemporary and vibrant prints paired with its slim, modern fit. Everyday RT designers are on Photoshop working on a new print artwork. In order to bring Design’s vision to life, the Production team’s role in the process is crucial.

Production is the bridge between all departments. We deal with all facets of the industry which means a broaden knowledge and vast skillset is necessary to succeed. For example, we must be familiar with different fabric/trim material and understand garment construction language in order to approve factories’ bulk fabric submits and strategically negotiate with factories for lower costs. We also need to be proficient in costing and numbers in order to maximize margins, along with knowledge of merchandizing, sales and marketing so the final in-store garment aligns with what is being advertised to consumers and retailers. Logistically we should be familiar with style and unit allocations so we can accurately send POs to factories. Perhaps I can be a little biased but I see Production managers as the underdog in the company. Whether it be inconsistent factory delays, language barriers with overseas factories, fit errors, costing wars, or dreaded unit chases, every day is a new challenge troubleshooting production problems. They hold the fort up so that the garment consumers hold in their hands is exactly what Design envisioned: high-quality, contemporary, modern, and unique.

Keep on the lookout for my next and last post as I bring you along the production process of a typical Fall style!