Most employers will ask for fashion designers to have at least a two-year associate degree; however, a four-year bachelor's degree in fine arts with an emphasis on design is more common. Those who want further education and want to hone their skills as a designer can pursue a master's degree in fine arts.
Formal training in the basic skills of the trade enhances employment and advancement opportunities. It helps to have hands-on experience with fabric, color and "merchandising--the process through which products are designed, developed, marketed and sold."
Intuition concerning trends and the ability to predict them is difficult to learn. Most successful fashion designers are attuned to where trends are going. Since pieces are made months in advance, a fashion designer's job is to be current--but that is something that must be predicted months in advance. Sound difficult? It is.
Some individuals have natural talent and decide to hone their skills through one-on-one teachings with a mentor. They move up in the design world by consistently creating high-quality pieces that attract clients and stores. Accessory specialists concur that "repetitious practice of the craft is the best way to learn."
Your portfolio (samples of your work) is probably the most important tool for landing a job as a fashion designer. Begin building your portfolio as soon as you have something to show. Pick your best work in sketching, color/fabric knowledge and design development.