Is COVID-19 Helpful for Fashion Designers? 3 Steps You Can Take

During these unprecedented times of the COVID-19 global pandemic, it may seem like there’s nothing to do. Many people are opting to stay at home and wear PPE. Stores, businesses, and activities have closed or have limited hours and access. This has resulted in high unemployment rates, which have understandably impacted fashion designers and their sales. This makes us wonder, what activities can designers still use to grow their line and career while social distancing? Keep reading to find a few highly productive activities you can indulge in from the comfort of your living room.

Attend Virtual Fashion Shows & Designer Events

With social distancing regulations in place, the majority of in-person fashion shows and other events in the fashion industry have been cancelled. Fortunately, a lot of these events have transitioned to a virtual format. Some designers like Giorgio Armani made the move to host their fashion shows online. Armani, specifically, held his Milan Fashion Week runway show inside his empty showroom in hopes of continuing to entertain the public.

Also, while networking opportunities have shifted from the pre-COVID,  in-person format, most online designer events now provide virtual chat functions to connect with other fashion brands and retailers. A good way to find out about these opportunities is to join Facebook and LinkedIn groups for designers and look for remote events on Eventbrite. In fact, with the current state of lockdown to semi-quarantine, you can now attend more fashion-related events from around the world – all from the comfort of your living room.

Keep Designing

You might now have more free time than you did pre-quarantine. Use this time to work productively and experiment with your apparel, shoe, or accessories designs. Take the time to research fashion trends and keep creating. While fashion seasons may not have as much relevance right now, you have a rare opportunity to accomplish a lot during this time, so take advantage.

If you are interested in launching your own private label designs, try starting now by creating highly relevant garments like masks. A lot of designers, due to a dip in garment sales and shopping behavior, have turned to designing fashionable masks with a mission to protect society and continue generating income. If masks aren’t your thing, plan for the future by creating clothing, shoes, and bathing suit designs. Try designing something new and don’t be afraid to be creative!

(Virtually) Network, Network, Network!

Networking is probably one of the most daunting parts of being a successful fashion designer, and with social distancing regulations, it may now seem impossible. However, with technology, this doesn't need to be difficult.

Take steps to connect with fashion-affiliated individuals through platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook groups, or even by sending them an email. Create a written pitch that’s no more than five sentences in length, and utilize these platforms to your advantage. It’s important to stay in contact with the connections you make online, so be sure to learn from them and offer them your help where possible. Who knows? Maybe you’ll be able to land an opportunity to display your designs in a high-end store after this pandemic passes.