Over the summer I took the time to investigate and work on my fashion portfolio for university applications. Within these 3 months I grew knowledge in the area of fashion design by speaking with certain fashion experts and getting hands on experiences. I was also able to discover new information as I delve into the preliminary investigation of the process, getting more of an insight of what the creation and illustration stage would look like. Doing so, I had a pretty clear idea of what I was ready to build, but knowing the investigation needed to go deeper before actually producing potential material, I went ahead and spoke with several students that went through this same experience.
Around mid January I began getting in touch with current students studying in the area of fashion, this more or less gave me an overview of what the procedure would look like, being able to further orient myself within the topic. And thanks to this one-on-one "conversation" I was I able to get detailed, in-depth information that will hopefully allow me to master this portfolio. Taking one step further into the process, I was recommended having a personal mentor that will guide me through the stages of this long creation. By having this "tutor" by my side and being presented with a series of tips and advice, will in no doubt allow me to succeed.
Once my new mentor was contacted in February, I began brainstorming and producing draft material as my initial "hands on" stage. Before actually constructing the designs or products, I learned that in order to proceed, one must first choose a specific theme or topic that in some way makes these designs unique; in other words, making the portfolio stand out. So pretty much, the month of February consisted in choosing and brainstorming these topics in order to truly my make the overall idea "my own". I would visit or keep in touch with my mentor once a week and I then I would proceed with the investigation on my own.
Another skill I was able to build was my knowledge of textiles and fabrics. Dealing with the manipulation of fabrics in my designs, it is important for me to know my way around certain textiles in order to help me visualize what I want to produce. Doing further research on materials and how they are manipulated, I was able to extend my knowledge in the area of textile styling. Textile styling is a crucial concept in the process of building a fashion portfolio and by using a variety of materials in my designs I was able to reach this step successfully.
By the end of the summer, I was finally able to gather all this fresh information and apply it in the creation of the project. Having 3 initial topics for my portfolio, I was able to produce several designs with a clear idea of what I wanted them to look like and how they should be arranged. The 3 themes I decided to carry on with throughout the portfolio were Peruvian Culture, Classy Rock and Medieval Age. Each topic was detailedly thought through, making sure they represented my interest and “personality” in a unique way.
In order to proceed with this project I plan on developing several designs and visiting my mentor at least once a week, having a constant stream of feedback on my material.
In order to proceed with this project I plan on developing several designs and visiting my mentor at least once a week, having a constant stream of feedback on my material.