How To Create A Career In 3D Fashion Design
A sure-fire guide with all the steps you need to kickstart your career
3D fashion design technology is altering how fashion designers approach product development, pattern creation, and fits. 3D garment design software streamlines the design process, saving time and money while decreasing environmental effects.
A new wave of designers have joined the path of 3D fashion. From working professionals creating alternatives for fast fashion through digital clothing to students simply using 3D fashion to present their collections, it is constantly getting more omnipresent.
What do 3D fashion designers do?
A 3D fashion designer’s main work is based on digital knowledge using softwares to create 3D models of garments, accessories, bags and maybe home furnishing items as well- the options are unlimited.
Using softwares like CLo3d, Marvelous Designer, Browzwear, Tuka 3D and more are a huge part of what 3D designers do. For improved results they may also use softwares like Make Human, Daz Studio and more to create more complex models, textures and add animation.
The designer creates a virtual garment by defining the shape and appearance of each piece of the garment, including the fabrics, colors, and textures. The designer can then manipulate the 3D model to see how the garment will look from different angles, and can make changes as needed.
3D designers are not only working for themselves, but for our future generations, because under them, the face of the fashion industry itself is changing! Check out the video below to know more.
Where can 3D fashion designers work?
A freelance 3D designer produces three-dimensional visual effects, animations, and models used in various scenarios, including games, architecture, cinema, marketing, and more.
Working as part-time, full-time, freelance, internships and self-employees are all possible in this segment of the industry.
The required skill set for a 3D fashion designer
Design Oriented skills
Colour theory
Eye for detail
Love for textures, patterns, prints etc.
Imagination, eagerness to learn more and curiosity
Digital skills
Adeptness with softwares
Pattern making and draping
Tech packs and style sheets
Working on a file with multiple software
Steps to become a 3D fashion designer
1.Receive the best training in 3D
Learning softwares is definitely not a piece of cake, and when it comes to advanced softwares which have multiple tools to explore and make use of, the best way to harness that is to receive training, preferably by a certified instructor. In our 3D course, we provide a holistic approach to 3D fashion. Learning pattern making, texture development, knitted and laced fabrics, handbag construction, animating and customizing the models and environments with a lot more ease. Fishing around for videos from random sites is definitely not the preferable way to land that coveted job in the industry!
2. Build your design portfolio
Creating multiple personal projects during your learning stage is the segue to the industry and the multiple positions and opportunities it holds. This is why receiving adequate training is paramount, and enables you not to fall short when you work in a professional environment.
3.Gain hands-on experience
Once you’ve mastered the skill part of it, its time to get some work experience, build a portfolio and aim at newer heights! Working as a 3D modeler or artist for fashion houses, animation studios, huge conglomerates or any accredited company willing to enter the digital space, is the way to get this experience.
4. Network within industry
Of course, within any industry and particularly the fashion industry, creating connections through networking is necessary and advantageous to a working professional. Gaining newer opportunities or even being guided to start something of your own is the main goal.
Things to know before you become a 3D fashion designer
Considering a career in 3D fashion? Its always better to research to ones absolute best and then go ahead! Here are a few things you should know:
We know, the industry gets hard and demanding. At first it may seem hard-especially during the learning phase- and you might wonder whether it might be enough. But hard work and perseverance always pays off, and the patience and dedication are what will make your artistic and imaginative side shine through to make people see what you’re capable of!
3D Fashion is a career on the rise, now more than ever, is the best time to grab this opportunity and turn it into a full-time career.
Prospective salary
The money that 3D fashion designers make may vary in range owing to the level of skill, experience, location and more. As of January 2023, the average annual pay for a 3D Designer is $64,489 a year. The average salary for a 3D designer at a brand like Ralph Lauren is $152,179 per year and the majority pay for a virtual fashion designer is between $37500 to $72000 per year. This should give you an idea of what to expect and how far you can go in this business.
FAQs
How do I get started if I'm completely new to this?
It can be intimidating to set foot into a completely new environment like with all its digital pathways and intricacies. Check out this free beginner's guide to help you get started! Free Clo3D Beginners Guide Course
What do I do if I get stuck with the software?
As mentioned earlier, it is always best to seek formal training for the same. If you have no leads for the same, here's the link to our course, be sure to check it out.
Who will my coworkers be?
Depending on where you work, your coworkers may be fellow 3D designers, artists and models or coders, programmers and back-end developers. Fashion designers, stylists, consultants and more from the industry as well.
How do I bring that 'something extra' and stand out when looking for jobs?
First of all don't get overwhelmed! If you've done a full-fledged course, be confident about your knowledge and skills. Create an outstanding portfolio, show your eagerness to learn relentlessly, and be passionate about your job- and it'll definitely show in your work!
We hope this really helped you to kickstart your career in this industry, or maybe even get you thinking about it or converting it from a hobby to an actual job! If you have more questions, we're always here to answer them.