Here’s the thing about successful fashion designers: they never, ever give up. They hold their dream of making it big in the cut-throat world of fashion designing close, and work hard day in and day out. While determination, discipline and persistence are the key to become successful in any trade, fashion designing has its own set of tips. If you want to make it big as a fashion designer, take heed of the following:

1. Draw inspiration from your personal experiences.

Personal experiences are just that – your own. No one else has seen them, and so, that’s your unique selling point. When it comes to designing clothes, choose points from your life that mark a point of reference for the audience, and create a story that is personally, truly your own.

2. Show leadership, but don’t be afraid to do it yourself.

A good fashion designer is a good navigator. Without your team, you wouldn’t be able to get things done on time. Therefore, do not refrain from delegating; extract as much as you can from your team’s strengths and apply it to your work. However, don’t sit back and relax while your team does the work for you. From creativity to retail, distribution and marketing, involve yourself in everything and ensure that things are done right at all stages.

3. Make as much noise about yourself as you can.

Knocking on doors can lead to some of the biggest opportunities in life. The least that will happen is door after door shut in your face, but you really only need that one door that’s not. In the world of fashion where competition is sky-high, the efforts you make and the talent you possess are the only way you can make it big. So, don’t be afraid to be turned down initially; all you need is one good eye to judge your capabilities.

4. Keep your online profile updated for headhunters.

Numerous talent recruitment agencies hunt for talented professionals on websites like LinkedIn and Craigslist. Therefore, the last thing you want is to not keep your portfolio updated, should an opportunity strike. Furthermore, join as many networks as possible and keep applying to their requirements. Getting recognized is a constant process more than a one-hit wonder.

5. Understand the kind of designers in demand, and adapt accordingly.

You have your USP. You have your team. You have your determination. However, everything fails if you don’t have what the industry really demands. Ensure that your work is in demand, and apply for projects that don’t have a lot of supply. Think about what the world is lacking and could benefit from, and showcase your work accordingly.