How to become fashion designerseducation, training, experience and the steps to enter
Median annual pay
$80,960
25th–75th pct. $51,940–$106,470
Top pay (est.)
$190,900
Top 10% $146,870
Pay in 5 years
$93,100est.
2031
Pay in 10 years
$107,100est.
$92,100–$124,300
Outlook score
56/100
★★★☆☆ Average
AI replacement risk
46%
Moderate
Job growth (10 yr)
+0.1%
2,500 openings / yr
How to become fashion designers
Typical education
Bachelor's degree
BLS
Related experience
None
On-the-job training
None
A step-by-step guide for this occupation is being prepared. The education, training and experience data above show the typical path.
Skills, education and requirements for Fashion Designers
Key skills
O*NET skill level ratings (0–7).
Key knowledge areas
What the work involves
Thinking CreativelyOrganizing, Planning, and Prioritizing WorkEstablishing and Maintaining Interpersonal RelationshipsUpdating and Using Relevant KnowledgeCommunicating with Supervisors, Peers, or SubordinatesCoaching and Developing OthersCoordinating the Work and Activities of OthersGetting Information
Important abilities
OriginalityOral ExpressionOral ComprehensionFluency of IdeasCategory FlexibilityNear Vision
Education of workers
Training before entry
Related work experience
Job Zone 3 — medium preparation needed (O*NET)
Difficulty of entry: ★★★☆☆ Moderate (from education, training, experience and Job Zone)
Career path and how to earn more as fashion designers
Career-path guidance is being prepared. Pay by percentile is shown in the Pay section.
Pay and employment figures are national statistics. Projected pay, outlook scores and AI replacement risk are estimates from the Shigoto Zukan model, not guarantees. To request a correction, use the contact form. How to read the data
Sources: BLS OEWS May 2025; BLS Employment Projections 2025–35; O*NET 31.0 Database by USDOL/ETA (CC BY 4.0), modified by Shigoto Zukan. Pay ranges, projections and scores are Shigoto Zukan estimates.