Fashion Illustrator

Fashion illustrators create accurate images out of ideas, representing products from hairstyles to spectacle frames.

This includes work as a forecasting illustrator for prediction services, where predictions have not yet been realised and photographs cannot be used.

Fashion illustrators work in a competitive market where most of the work is on a freelance basis. Illustrators may receive commissions from advertising agents, design consultants, public relation firms or manufacturing outlets.

Typical work activities include: producing drawings and paintings that are clear and workable enough to be used effectively by the manufacturing and production services, as well as media and retail outlets; working with designers or editors to understand what is required of the illustrations; working with fashion predictors to represent market trends, in terms of mood and style of clothing; and marketing work to possible clients.

Illustrators must be able to produce detailed artwork, in a variety of media, which is presented to a very high standard. The ability to interpret the ideas of others is key and computer aided design (CAD) may be used in the production of work.

Rates of pay can vary widely - see the section on Fashion Designer for more information.

Freelance work is common and rates can again vary widely. You could negotiate fees based on the size of company and your own track record.

You will usually need a relevant degree that teaches both design and technical skills and will give you the practical knowledge needed to work in the industry.

To search for colleges and universities offering fashion and textile-related courses and degrees, use the course search on this site and check with individual colleges and universities as entry requirements vary.

You will need to put together a portfolio of work experience that you can take along to interviews.

As the industry is very competitive (more than 3,000 fashion and textiles students qualify from higher education each year), any work experience you gain will give you an advantage when it comes to getting a job.

See the Can U Cut It website for advice on finding work experience and more information about careers in the fashion industry.