What is the qualification for being an IKEA designer?

How can I become a well known and respected designer?

• Hi, I am a girl and I am fifteen. I live in Ireland. I have no idea what job I would like when I am older but recently I have been thinking that I would like to get into the fashion designing industry. I don't have any experience in designing clothes and I don't do art or design in school and I do not plan too. I do Home Economics, which is like cooking and sewing(which I am quite good at), but I plan to give that up after my Junior Cert. Examinations this year. But, I like to draw and I often get compliments on my drawings from my family and friends. I do not want to go to an art college because if it doesn't work out I don't want it to be my only qualification. How could I start to become a designer for like clothes, shoes, bags, etc.? Do I have to start off at something small like a carpet designer or something? I would like it as a kind of second job because I don't want it to be my main source or income in case it doesn't work out in the future. Also, is there an age that it would be best to start out at, like when I am 20 or something? But I really would like to start now! What do I do? Please help! Max. points for best, most informative answer! Thanks.

• Answer:

  If you want to take up a job then you need to get academic qualifications from fashion designing school. If you want to start your own business (like wholesales, retail shop or customized supplies) then you can start doing so right away. First you should keenly watch the fashion mags, FTV, Hollywood and visit popular fashion shows/fairs. See whats the latest colors, fabrics and general trends going in the fashion industry. Pick up you own unique theme (in which you feel you are best) and start working on it. Make few accessories or dresses and test them in the market with small shop or boutiques, if you get positive response you can diversify your projects. Further, there is no age limit for creativity. Younger the bird learns to fly the furthest it can see. So pick up your pencil and drawing board and start coloring your future.