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Job Description: Accessories designers are a subset of fashion designers, who choose to specialize in fashion accents. Accessories designers create original jewelry, handbags, scarves, even shoes -- based on inspiration from various sources, often in collaboration with fashion designers. Many accessories designers launch their own design companies, and are known for their unique and creative pieces.
Salary Range: The median salary for accessories designers is $35,000, but can vary greatly depending on the popularity of their materials (turquoise jewelry, for example, or flower pins), and the innovation present in their designs. Many accessories designers launch product lines in collaboration with fashion designers, sell their designs to department stores and boutiques. Accessories are also well-suited to being sold online, and many designers take this route.
Education: While not expressly required, degrees in fashion design, fashion merchandising, and even marketing will increase the accessories designer’s chances of success. In fashion design degree programs, students learn the technical skills (sketching, sewing, construction, use of materials, etc,) that they will need to communicate their ideas effectively.
Outlook: The US Department of Labor predicts 11% industry growth between 2002 and 2012, as more people express an interest in luxury goods. Many consumers are not able to afford top-notch designer clothing, but may be able to splurge on an accessory.
Personality Traits: Accessories designers are creative people with the ability to visualize and the patience to see their designs through to fruition. Accessories designers must also have an aptitude for business, as they will spend considerable time marketing their vision and making sales. Accessories designers have a unique ability to collaborate with fashion designers and create accent pieces that complement the clothes.
Career Path: Assistant/Patternmaker
> Junior Designer > Proprietor/Head Designer
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