r/fashiondesigner

Can you break into in-house brands from wholesale? (NYC designer)

Hey fashion designers of Reddit :)

I have a question and would really appreciate any advice. I’m currently working as a fashion designer in wholesale with an Associate title, based in NYC.

I’m trying to transition into an in-house brand (like Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Polo, Gap, etc.). Wholesale has been a great learning experience—I’ve gotten faster, better at trend research, and improved a lot overall. But it’s extremely fast-paced, and designs/pricing get heavily influenced by buyers, which can be frustrating. I really want to experience a more design-focused, in-house environment.

The problem is… every time I apply to these companies, I get an automatic rejection email. I’m not sure if I’m getting filtered out by ATS or if I’m just not a strong enough fit. I did get interviews before (Coach, Express), but didn’t make it through.

When I look at people on LinkedIn, a lot of in-house designers seem to have started with internships directly at those brands. I get that it probably helps a lot, but does that mean transitioning from wholesale is really that hard?

Is this move unrealistic? Or is there something I should be doing differently?

If anyone here has made a similar transition or works in-house, I’d really appreciate your advice. I’m pretty serious about making a move right now.

Thanks so much, and good luck to everyone out there—we got this.

reddit.com
u/Sweaty-Constant-3052 — 7 hours ago

Designrs out there!! Can I get your opinion???!

A person can become a parasite within their own mind.

The snake symbolizes the mind injecting venom in the form of toxic thoughts, self-doubt, and pressure, pushing the individual to change themselves.

The mind can become something that confines and controls the body,

u/Mammoth-Camp5607 — 12 hours ago

What 3d programs do you use for fashion design on a casual hobbyist level?

I have seen videos of programs like Style3D and Clo 3D, which look like amazing resources for making patterns. I am a cosplayer who often has to deal with strange clothing shapes and designs of comic and manga characters. A program like this seems super useful for creating the patterns. However, this is something I would only use a couple times a year for my costumes, and these companies want upwards of several hundred dollars for a year license, or even $50-100 for just a one month license. I understand this may be a decent price if you are using it on a regular basis, but for a very infrequent user who would only be using it for my own costumes (non-commerical purposes) this is extremely costly.

Are there any alternatives to these programs that are more affordable for a casual hobbyist?

reddit.com
u/SuperSpirals — 14 hours ago

Missed my CAT exam is there any opportunity I can get in a good fashion university?

I'm a PCB dropper & I've decided to choose fashion designing cuz I've always been interested in this since childhood although I made a mistake by choosing pcb cuz I was so immature at that time, now only m realising neet is not for me but it's late CAT exam already passed , is there any way I can get into a genuinely good fashion university now?

reddit.com
u/No_Friend_4179 — 3 hours ago

are these too cartoony for a portfolio

my professors always said my drawings were good and unique but now they feel too cartoony or childish for my portfolio??

u/FixAffectionate6104 — 1 day ago
▲ 5 r/fashiondesigner+1 crossposts

Waistband alternatives

Hi Reddit, im planning on developing this high-waisted skirt design and I want to stick to only natural fabrics for sustainability reasons. I’ve been talking to a few manufacturers about waistband options, and most of them are suggesting elastane, but that obviously contains polyester.

Does anyone have advice on good alternatives for the waist that still gives the skirt elasticity & flexibility in that region.

u/ClothesOk292 — 2 days ago
▲ 34 r/fashiondesigner+2 crossposts

CRITICS NEEDED

Hello Everyone -

Lifetime lurker here looking for honest critique and advice. After many many years of dreaming, I’m going for it. I figure it’s better to say I tried and failed than never to have tried at all. Does the world need another fashion brand? Fuck no. But here I am trying to do something genuinely different and I need real feedback from people who will actually tell me the truth.

The concept is convertible fashion where every piece serves at least two functions. A dress that becomes a top. A skirt that becomes a maxi. A cardigan that flips. The idea is that true sustainability isn’t just about materials, it’s about desire. The most sustainable garment, imo, is the one you actually reach for over and over again. I want to lead with something beautiful first, and let the responsible sourcing be the backbone not the marketing hook.

On materials: short term I’m sourcing from deadstock fabric suppliers but long term I want to source directly from textile and post-consumer waste streams. I’m tracking every fabric source from day one.

I have three samples in progress and I’m looking for brutal honesty before I go any further.

A few specific questions (feel free to answer one, all or none and just comment)

•	Would you actually reach for something like this in a store or add it to your cart and why or why not?

•	What’s the most you’d realistically pay for a well-made convertible dress or top made from reclaimed fabric?

•	Does the “convertible” concept excite you or feel gimmicky?

I appreciate any and all feedback (the harsher the better)!!!!!!

TL;DR - Building a womenswear brand where every piece converts into at least two garments, made from reclaimed textile waste. Want to lead with desirability over sustainability preaching. Three samples in progress. Would you buy it, and what would stop you?

u/GanasNYC — 3 days ago

Macbook over iPad for costume design course at university

Hi folks. My daughter is shortly heading to uni to study costume design. She was initially considering an iPad for sketching with Procreate, but has since found out that there will be a focus in the first year at least on Illustrator for creating technical flats. I have a few questions before buying the right equipment. Could you please share your experiences?

  1. What model MacBook would you recommend? Could she get away with an M4 chip?
  2. What is a decent drawing pad?
  3. Is there an alternative to Procreate should she need it?
    Thank you!!
reddit.com
u/PhlapHanson — 1 day ago

University: FIT or AMFI

I'm hoping some of you can provide some guidance. My child has been accepted to both FIT and Amsterdam Fashion Institute (AMFI) for their fashion merchandising programs and is struggling to make a decision, which she needs to by next week! We are based in NYC with family in Amsterdam, so she's very familiar with both places, however the school programs are very different. AMFI is much smaller and you are fully focused on the fashion program (per my understanding), whereas as FIT you still have to fulfill the SUNY core requirements, but I wonder if she'd end up with much better connections in the industry.

If anyone is familiar with both and has some insight it would be appreciated!

reddit.com
u/ndunnenyc — 1 day ago
▲ 6 r/fashiondesigner+3 crossposts

SDSU or CSULB

Hey, so I was doing some research about applying to colleges, so far for a future major I'd want to pursue Majoring in Software Engineering & Minoring Fashion Designing. I want to stay local in the California area but based off what I was research I'm in between SDSU & CSULB for their fashion designing programs, but I'd like to have more insight for what people think, I have a lot of time on my hands before my next year for applications. The only downside it's that CSULB is 5 hours away from my area, but SDSU is more local, so I'm conflicted. I wanna know more about the college students experiences in both colleges, and know more about the fashion department, because the engineering departments are no problem, my counselor said it'd be hard to find a good college in Cali with both departments, so lmk.

reddit.com
u/vopni — 1 day ago

Guys!! Give me your opinion!!

A person can become a parasite within their own mind when it comes to beauty, constantly trying to meet the expectations and standards set by others.

The snake symbolizes the mind injecting venom in the form of toxic thoughts, self-doubt, and pressure, pushing the individual to change themselves.

It shows how beauty, instead of being freeing, can become something that confines and controls the body.

u/Mammoth-Camp5607 — 13 hours ago

I’m not even sure if it’s a right place to ask for suggestions but can you tell what can be done with this fabric?

I want to design something for my sister, something that she can wear to her workplace.

u/Few-Heart4061 — 1 day ago
▲ 6 r/fashiondesigner+1 crossposts

Ralph Lauren: A Fashion Titan Honored on Time100's Most Influential List of 2026

A Legacy of American Style Recognized on the Global Stage

In a landmark recognition of enduring influence and unparalleled creative vision, the esteemed Time100 list for 2026 has named legendary designer Ralph Lauren as one of the 100 most influential people in the world. This prestigious honor solidifies Lauren's position not just as a titan of the fashion industry, but as a cultural force whose impact resonates far beyond the runway, shaping American identity and aspirational living for generations.

The Time100 list, renowned for its curation of individuals who are shaping the future and making a significant impact across various fields, including politics, arts, business, science, and activism, this year shines a spotlight on the man who has defined a certain kind of American elegance. Ralph Lauren's inclusion is a testament to his remarkable career, which spans over five decades and has seen him build an empire founded on a distinct vision of timeless style, quality craftsmanship, and a powerful narrative of the American Dream.

Born Ralph Lifshitz in the Bronx, New York, Lauren's journey is the quintessential American success story. His ascent from a tie salesman to the creative director of a multi-billion dollar global brand is a narrative that continues to inspire. His early innovations, particularly his reimagining of classic sportswear and the introduction of the iconic Polo Pony logo, quickly set him apart. These were not just clothes; they were statements of a lifestyle – aspirational, sophisticated, and quintessentially American.

Lauren's influence extends beyond the aesthetics of clothing. He pioneered the concept of lifestyle branding, creating a universe of products that allowed consumers to immerse themselves in his vision. From fragrances and home goods to, most recently, his expanded focus on sustainability and circularity in fashion, Ralph Lauren Corporation has consistently evolved while staying true to its core principles. This adaptability, coupled with an unwavering commitment to quality and design, has ensured his relevance through changing trends and economic climates.

What makes Ralph Lauren's influence particularly profound is his ability to translate a feeling, an idea, and a dream into tangible products that resonate globally. He didn't just sell clothes; he sold aspiration. His designs have graced Hollywood red carpets, adorned athletes on the world's biggest stages, and become staples in wardrobes across the globe. The iconic looks he has created have become synonymous with key moments in popular culture, effectively weaving his brand into the fabric of modern life.

His vision has always been about more than just fashion; it's about a romanticized portrayal of American life – be it the rugged individualism of the West, the relaxed sophistication of the East Coast, or the glamorous allure of Hollywood. This ability to capture and translate diverse American archetypes into a cohesive and universally appealing brand is a unique talent that has cemented his legacy.

Looking Towards the Future: Sustainability and Innovation

In 2026, Ralph Lauren continues to be a forward-thinking leader. The brand has made significant strides in its commitment to sustainability, with initiatives like the Color on Demand dyeing technology aiming to reduce water usage and waste. This focus on innovation and responsible practices demonstrates a dedication to ensuring the brand's legacy endures for future generations, adapting to the evolving values of consumers and the planet.

The Time100 recognition is not merely an acknowledgement of past achievements but a celebration of an ongoing commitment to excellence and influence. Ralph Lauren's enduring presence in the fashion world and his ability to consistently capture the zeitgeist make him a deserving recipient of this honor. His impact on how we dress, how we aspire, and how we define American style is undeniable, making him a true luminary among the world's most influential people of 2026.

Key takeaways from Ralph Lauren's influence:

Pioneering lifestyle branding.

Defining a distinct vision of American style and aspiration.

Building a global empire from humble beginnings.

Innovating in design and manufacturing, including sustainable practices.

Consistently adapting to cultural shifts while maintaining brand integrity.

u/LME247 — 2 days ago

Problem with my Riri zippers

Hello, I need some help. The Riri zippers that I install myself don’t close all the way : the slider won’t pass over the stoppers, and I can’t figure out why. I’ve also noticed that even on garments sold in stores, the same issue sometimes happens. I’ve attached a photo of the pliers I use to install the stoppers. Does anyone have a solution?

u/Zipetteeee — 1 day ago