Kari Buffalo
Degree: Bachelor of Science
Major: Clothing Design
Years in the Field: 2
Current Job Title: Designer
Organization: St. Croix Knits
How did you find this job?
I searched through many want advertisements.
Previous Job Titles and Organizations:
Assistant Designer-Nanette Lepore
Assistant Designer-Armani Exchange
Please describe your job:
Plan collection of sweaters, pants, jeans, shirts, jackets and socks twice yearly. Sketch design ideas. Work with knit technicians and pattern makers to construct garments. Travel to research fabrics and trends. Approve lab dips for yarn and fabric colors. Analyze sales data to predict future market trends..
What from your undergraduate educational experience was most helpful in preparing you for this career?
Design development classes, sketching, pattern making.
What surprised you the most as you entered the field of clothing design?
The fashion industry looks glamorous from the outside. In reality, it takes a lot of stamina and creativity to meet the demands of a design job. You are always working with tight deadlines. This means long hours, nights and weekends. The working environment is usually a factory setting, with lots of people working frantically together to complete a collection in a short time with many restrictions. You have to be quick thinker and creative problem solver.
What advice do you have for current students?
Have a strong portfolio. Good sketches/croquis showing many design ideas within a single collection/theme. Employers want to see how many solutions you can come up with for one design idea. Have a strong knowledge of garment construction. Your ideas have to be able to be made into a saleable garment.
Finding a job after graduation takes determination and persistence. Don't be easily deterred. Make sure to follow up on any leads/connections you have. Once you get a job, you will have experience and it will be easier to get your next job. So take any opportunity to get job experience in you desired field.