According to people in this career, the main tasks are...
| Task | Importance |
|---|---|
| Direct and coordinate workers involved in drawing and cutting patterns and constructing samples or finished garments. | 91% |
| Examine sample garments on and off models, modifying designs to achieve desired effects. | 90% |
| Sketch rough and detailed drawings of apparel or accessories, and write specifications such as color schemes, construction, material types, and accessory requirements. | 89% |
| Confer with sales and management executives or with clients to discuss design ideas. | 88% |
| Identify target markets for designs, looking at factors such as age, gender, and socioeconomic status. | 85% |
| Attend fashion shows and review garment magazines and manuals to gather information about fashion trends and consumer preferences. | 85% |
| Select materials and production techniques to be used for products. | 85% |
| Provide sample garments to agents and sales representatives, and arrange for showings of sample garments at sales meetings or fashion shows. | 84% |
| Design custom clothing and accessories for individuals, retailers, or theatrical, television, or film productions. | 84% |
| Adapt other designers' ideas for the mass market. | 82% |
| Determine prices for styles. | 80% |
| Draw patterns for articles designed, cut patterns, and cut material according to patterns, using measuring instruments and scissors. | 78% |
| Purchase new or used clothing and accessory items as needed to complete designs. | 75% |
| Visit textile showrooms to keep up-to-date on the latest fabrics. | 75% |
| Collaborate with other designers to coordinate special products and designs. | 75% |
| Develop a group of products or accessories, and market them through venues such as boutiques or mail-order catalogs. | 74% |
| Read scripts and consult directors and other production staff to develop design concepts and plan productions. | 73% |
| Test fabrics or oversee testing so that garment care labels can be created. | 71% |
| Sew together sections of material to form mockups or samples of garments or articles, using sewing equipment. | 61% |
| Research the styles and periods of clothing needed for film or theatrical productions. | 57% |
