A career in product development within the fashion industry requires you to become involved with the design and developing products. It involves planning, developing and presenting trend-driven products for a brand or supplier. Often this will involve trips overseas to research the latest trends, ideas, and concepts whether it is for womenswear, menswear, childrenswear, fashion accessories, footwear, or lingerie.
This role encompasses producing detailed tech packs and following a product from initial design to final samples, liaising with factories to follow the progress and check production, sourcing trims and fabrics, ordering raw materials and communicating with suppliers. The job of a Product Developer entails developing the product at a quality, and level, which pleases both producer and consumer of the fashion/retail company you are working for.
Top 3 Key Skills needed to become a Product Developer:
- A good understanding of the design process
- As well as knowledge of costing, consumer spending, and target markets
- Have a creative eye but ultimately be commercial and cost-effective