This week was pretty cool because we got in the first prototypes for a few of our designs. It's definitely exciting to see a drawing evolve into a physical coat. Of course, however, prototypes are not without their flaws, especially since they're the first iteration of the design. We had a few different fittings this week to figure out what we need to improve on and what needs to be taken out. Sometimes details will look good in a sketch but don't necessarily work in real life, or vice versa. There's all these little things that we have to think about when creating a product that will be sold out in the marketplace. For example, we found that on one of the down coats that came in the nylon fabric kept getting caught in the zipper. If we left it as is and it ended up staying in the line, there would probably be a lot of returns on that particular coat because of ripped fabric and zipper jams (which would be unacceptable anyway considering the coat's price). Then, the buyers would be unhappy because we sold them something that caused them to lose money. So, in order to avoid all of this, we're going to have another sample made in a heavier nylon that won't rip as easily and decrease the down filling around the zipper so it lays flat. I'm definitely learning to be a conscious designer by attending these fittings. We have a responsibility as designers to always be aware of what we're creating/selling and how it effects the consumer.
On a happier note, the owner of our company took our whole office out to lunch this week, which was really fun. Everyone, especially the design team, is starting to feel the stress of needing to have everything completed within the next couple of weeks. It was definitely nice to go out with everyone and not talk about work and I was definitely grateful to be included.
This post makes me very excited to go on co-op and experience what the fashion industry has to offer. It also highlighted the complexity of a design. There really are so many little components that need to be thought about before and item is released to consumers. I think the comment that she is learning to be a "conscious" designer is vital. In any aspect of the fashion industry, one must be "conscious" of the consumer. It was also nice to hear that the owner is making the workplace comfortable by taking them out to lunch. Many believe that owners in the industry are not very approachable, but this says otherwise.
ReplyDeleteIt's so exciting to see that you get to work with the prototypes and design team. It seems like you are getting a lot of hands on experiences in your co op. I feel like you and your team have a lot of pressure to fulfill the consumer's need as well as their customer's needs. But I'm sure it feels amazing to see successful designs. I hope to hear more about your tasks. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteHi Sarah, it must be so great that you are able to see the product evolve from just a sketch. Working next to designers must be such a wonderful learning experience for you and I hope you are really enjoying your time at coop!
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