I've worked in Pathology and laboratory medicine in the clinical setting for six years, have a degree in biology, and just in the last year was promoted into a management position for a job that is challenging and rewarding, but I have this nagging thought in the back of my head all the time that I would love to stay my own clothing line.

Jessica Sondermann

September 20,2021 at 11:39AM UTC

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I've worked in Pathology and laboratory medicine in the clinical setting for six years, have a degree in biology, and just in the last year was promoted into a management position for a job that is challenging and rewarding, but I have this nagging thought in the back of my head all the time that I would love to stay my own clothing line. As someone with a demanding job and home life (three kids under 4) I don't have the resources to go back to school for another 4 year degree right now. But with zero experience I don't know where to start to break into the field. Any advice on how to break into clothing and manufacturing from a science field?

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Rachel GoldenSeptember 20,2021 at 1:10PM UTC
You might want to explore coursework at your local art school or community college.
Alexandria Scobee |Leadership Coach | IT ManagerSeptember 20,2021 at 1:21PM UTC
Have you designed any of your line yet? Have you started putting your clothes that you have made out in the world or started talking about it with friends and family?
AnonymousSeptember 20,2021 at 1:50PM UTC
You need to start networking and getting closer to that business. It takes a ton of time to build and now might not be a great time but designing and sewing your pieces and building an online presence might be a way to build your name and portfolio. Show your drawings online by invitation only in a digital portfolio should created at a resume could be something to start with. Sewing a few pieces fir yourself and your kids and feature them in a vlog or blog is your next step. Preparation is key. Sewing and sketching are paramount. So you need to use what little spare time you have figuring out ways to master those talents. Classes on design when you get more time (when kids are in school) would emerse you in that medium. If your partner can support the family you could eventually, once you've carved out a plan and did the above, you could apprentice and begin actually designing.
There are all types of ways to pivot into that area, and different timeliness depending on how you want to get there.
LaNee BSeptember 20,2021 at 4:13PM UTC
Youtube University is what I call it. First you need to decide what you imagine in detail for your clothing company. Will you be in store or online? Both? What kind of clothes? Branding? Your 'why'?
Rene LetendreSeptember 20,2021 at 8:22PM UTC
I love that: YouTube University!!
KatSeptember 20,2021 at 8:55PM UTC
Start small. You don't need a degree to succeed at this. Do you draw and sew? If not, you'll need to take classes in both of those areas so you'll know how to design and make clothing. Community colleges and craft stores (Joann's, Michael's, etc.) offer classes in both of these areas. If you don't have a good sewing machine, you'll need to invest in one. Spend time at craft and fabric stores so you know what types of fabric, styles and patterns are available. It's also a good place to network and find people doing similar work. Invest in a few basic dress/skirt/jacket patterns once you get comfortable with your sewing. Create your own clothes and get a portfolio together. Then start a small Etsy-type store and/or go to craft/fashion fairs to display and sell your creations. Get to know local boutique owners and see if they'd be interested in selling your clothes on consignment until you build up your brand. Offer to create/design pieces for others so they can help promote your work. It can start as a small side business and grow into something more over time. Fashion is very competitive, but there's no reason you can't find your own niche and do very well in it. Good luck!
The Career CounterSeptember 21,2021 at 3:24PM UTC
Life is short, Jessica. Go for your dream. Take all the advice that folks here have given you. Start small. One step at a time but if you work hard and are passionate and persistent you will achieve your goals!!
Joanne RosenOctober 1,2021 at 3:41PM UTC
Start with a niche product. Like gender neutral rompers/bib overalls for toddlers. They need to be unique, though. Be REALLY good at that one thing. Market the heck out of it. Find mom groups on FB etc. and join. Show pics of YOUR kids wearing them, playing, having fun. Then mention you make and sell them.
Watch Shark Tank or Dragon's Den. I've watched every episode of both, including the boring British version. You learn SO much from them.
Cheers
Joanne