Ask Fashion Girl

Dear Misunderstood,

The best way to gain your parents' support and understanding is to show them you are serious about fashion design as a career. They probably have an idea that a career as a fashion designer is unstable and competitive. Naturally, they are concerned about your future and want you to succeed! Remember that they strive to have your best interests in mind, even though their concern can sometimes come across as disapproval.

Help them visualize the myriad of career opportunities that you will be able to choose from in fashion design. You may end up as a technical designer, fashion stylist, or pattern maker. Maybe you will discover that your true passion is costume design for theatre productions. All of these exciting careers involve designing and revolve around fashion. Researching majors that fashion colleges offer will help you learn about these and will show your parents that you are thinking seriously about your future. You can design hats, handbags, lingerie, even doll clothes! As you explore these options, both you and your parents will feel more confident about pursuing a career in fashion design.

Show your parents that your love of fashion is not just some vague daydream by actively designing. It is never too early to start sketching out ideas! When your parents see you dedicating time and energy to designing, they will realize you are taking it serious. Involve them by asking for their feedback on your creations. Invite them to go fabric shopping with you. Show your parents what it is you love so much about fashion design! Believe in yourself and your parents will believe in you. It may take some work to win them over, but it is well worth it to gain their support. Communicate your love of fashion to them and let them know how much their approval means to you. They will appreciate your sincerity. Good luck with your future in fashion design!