The Truth
I once searched on Google, “How do you become a fashion designer?” The typical answer was:
"To become a fashion designer, you need strong drawing and sewing skills, a degree in fashion design or a related field, a portfolio of your work, and experience through internships or entry-level positions."
Sound familiar? It’s the kind of response we always get. But let’s be honest—becoming a fashion designer isn’t always that straightforward.
Hi, I’m Blessing—an aspiring fashion designer, just like you. If you’re reading this, we probably share the same dream of making it in the fashion world. But as a self-taught designer, I know how tricky this journey can be. Doubts, confusion, and frustration are part of the process. Sometimes, you even wonder if you’re on the right path.
Yet, there’s something inside us that refuses to quit—a voice that pushes us to keep going.
Through my journey of teaching myself fashion design and carving out my place in this industry, I’ve discovered the real truth about becoming a fashion designer. And in this blog, I’m here to share it
with you.
Introduction: We’re in This Together
Hi, I’m Blessing. Before we dive into what this blog is all about, let me take a moment to tell you what it’s not.
It’s not written by someone who’s already “made it” and is now sipping cocktails at Paris Fashion Week (though I fully intend to get there one day).
It’s not a blog that promises you overnight success or a shortcut to fame.
And it’s definitely not here to tell you that fashion design is easy—because it’s not.
This blog, however, is a raw, honest guide from someone who’s still figuring it out—just like you. I may not be at the top yet, but I’m on my way, and I want you to come along for the ride.
Along the way, I’ve made mistakes (lots of them), cried over broken zippers, and spent countless hours unpicking stitches I got wrong. But I’ve learned to keep going, and in this blog, I’m sharing the lessons I’ve learned, the stories that shaped my journey, and the tips that will help you avoid the pitfalls I’ve already stumbled into.
> “We’re on the same journey—I’m just the friend a few steps ahead, helping you find the right path.”
Whether your dream is to design for runways, celebrities, or even just create a stunning dress for your mom’s birthday, this blog will give you the tools, mindset, and motivation to take that first step—and keep going.
Part 1
Why Start Now?
Let’s be honest—fashion design can be overwhelming.
You know that feeling when:
You’re excited to start but have no idea where to buy fabric?
You sketch a design, but it looks nothing like what you imagined in your head?
You compare yourself to other designers and start questioning if you’re good enough?
I’ve been there. But here’s what I know for sure—you don’t need to be perfect to begin, and you certainly don’t need all the answers to keep moving forward.
A Story from My Journey
It’s funny how this whole fashion thing started. To be honest, I didn’t plan to be a designer—it just sort of happened. Let me take you back to when I was in secondary school, just after my junior WAEC.
My mom, being the wise woman she is, decided to enroll me in a local tailoring shop. I wasn’t exactly thrilled. In fact, I found it pretty annoying. Why would she do that to me? I loved fashion, but the thought of spending my time learning how to sew wasn’t appealing at all.
But then… something shifted. The moment I sat down at that sewing machine, everything changed. It was like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. I felt free. The stress and worries I had melted away.
There were days when I’d get so lost in the process that I wouldn’t even notice the time passing. And let me tell you—those hours, filled with trial and error, were some of the happiest of my life. Sure, I made mistakes. There were plenty of them (and yes, broken zippers!), but the joy of creating something new kept me going.
I even tore up old clothes just to see if I could turn them into something else. A shirt? A dress? Whatever I could create, I did, no matter how messy it turned out. The key was that I was creating, and that felt magical.
That’s when it hit me—fashion design wasn’t just a hobby. It was my calling.
And so, my journey began…
A Sneak Peek at Success Stories
Along the way, I’ve been inspired by other designers who, just like me, started from humble beginnings and climbed their way up. For instance, Nigerian designer Lisa Folawiyo started Jewel by Lisa with no formal fashion education—just raw talent and a lot of determination. Today, she’s a global name, showing that you don’t need a degree, just a passion and the willingness to learn.
Mai Atafo left his corporate job to follow his dream of fashion, and now dresses some of the world’s biggest celebrities. And let’s not forget Deola Sagoe, who put African fabrics on the global stage.
They all started somewhere—just like us.
The Goal of This Blog
I want you to finish this blog feeling empowered, motivated, and ready to take your first step into fashion design—even if you don’t have it all figured out just yet.
This isn’t a textbook. It’s more like a conversation. Imagine we’re sitting together, sewing and sketching, while I share everything I’ve learned so far and cheer you on as you begin your own journey.
> “I’m not here as an expert—I’m here as your partner in this journey. Let’s grow together.”
Why Fashion Design?
Before we dive into the tools, techniques, and fabrics, let’s first talk about you. Why do you want to be a fashion designer? Ask yourself these questions:
1. Why fashion design?
2. Am I ready to work hard—even when I feel like quitting?
3. What do I really want—fame, fortune, freedom, or all three?
Let me set the scene for you: Imagine you’ve spent three days making a dress. You show it to your mom, and she says, “It’s nice… but the sleeve looks funny.” You want to cry, but instead, you grab your seam ripper and start over. That’s the kind of determination you’ll need in this field.
Funny Story From My Journey
Okay, picture this: I was about 14, and I needed a new school uniform. Money was tight, and I couldn’t afford a tailor, so I decided to take matters into my own hands. I found some fabric, grabbed a needle, and went for it.
When I finished, I was excited, and I proudly wore my self-made uniform to school. But then, the principal noticed. “Did you make that?” she asked. I said, “Yes, ma’am!”
She was impressed, but then she pointed out that the sleeve was a little off. My heart sank. But here’s the twist: I didn’t feel ashamed. I was proud. I had done it! Sure, it wasn’t perfect, but it was mine. And I walked around school like I owned the place.
Takeaway: Start where you are. Even if things aren’t perfect, just begin. Perfection will come later, but progress starts now.
Part 2
Mastering the Basics of Fashion Design
You can’t build a dream collection without a solid foundation. So let’s get down to the basics. I’m not here to overwhelm you with jargon; we’re going to take it step by step.
1. Drawing and Sketching
Your first sketches might look more like abstract art than polished designs—and that’s okay! Start with whatever inspires you. Maybe it’s a funky pair of sneakers or a dress you’ve seen on a magazine cover. Just draw. The more you sketch, the more you’ll refine your style and skills.
Exercise: Start with a simple outfit—a top and pants or a flowy dress. Don’t stress over making it “perfect.” Focus on capturing the shape and silhouette. Each time you sketch, add something new—a cool collar, a unique sleeve style, a pocket.
2. Sewing Skills
Sewing is like learning to bake. You need to follow a recipe (or, in this case, instructions) for success. And guess what? If you mess up, it’s not the end of the world. You can fix it!
Tip: Before diving into a big project, practice on some scrap fabric. You’ll feel less pressure and learn a ton about your sewing machine and tools.
3. Fabric Knowledge
Think of fabric as your best friend. If you don’t understand how it behaves, your designs will fall flat. Spend time exploring different fabrics. Touch them, see how they move, how they drape.
Exercise: Visit a fabric store or browse online. Feel the different materials and note what you like or dislike. Is it soft? Does it stretch? Is it thick or light? This knowledge will guide your future fabric choices.
4. Pattern Making
Patterns are the foundation for your designs—they help you know where to cut, stitch, and finish. If you skip this step, your designs will likely fall apart. But don’t worry, making patterns doesn’t have to be intimidating.
Tip: Start with a simple skirt or T-shirt pattern. There are tons of tutorials online to help you get started. Once you’re comfortable, move on to more complex shapes.
5. Color Coordination
Color can make or break your designs. Getting it right is like cooking—it takes practice to find the perfect mix.
Exercise: Create a color palette based on your favorite season. For example, think of how you feel in bright spring colors vs. deep autumn shades. Then practice adding these colors to your designs and seeing how they work together.
Part 3
Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Failures
Let’s be real—you’re going to mess up. A lot.
But here’s the most important lesson I’ve learned: failure is not the end—it’s part of the process. Every misstep, every mistake is a lesson in disguise. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about learning and growing.
What No One Tells You:
Discipline over talent: The most successful designers show up every day—even when they don’t feel like it. Trust me, there are days when I’d rather binge-watch Netflix. But I make myself design.
Failures are lessons: I’ve had broken zippers, crooked hems, and fabric disasters. But every single failure taught me something new. And that's exactly what I want you to remember: you’re not failing—you’re learning.
Part 4
Empowerment Through Fashion Design
Fashion is more than just creating clothes. It’s about empowering yourself and others. Your designs are your voice—let them speak for you.
1. Your Voice: Fashion allows you to express who you are. It’s not about copying trends. It’s about setting your own. Wear what makes you feel powerful.
2. Building Confidence: With each piece you sew, you’re building more than just a garment—you’re building confidence. Your skills will grow, and so will your belief in your abilities.
3. Empowering Others: As your designs evolve, you’ll realize that your work isn’t just for you. Your creations can uplift someone else. They can help others feel confident, powerful, and beautiful. And that’s the true magic of fashion.
Conclusion
Your Journey Starts Now
It doesn’t matter if you’re starting with a needle and thread or a full-on sewing machine setup. What matters is that you start. Right now. Perfection will come, but progress starts today.
Remember, fashion isn’t just about clothes. It’s about what you create and how it makes you feel. So, go ahead—start making your dreams a reality. Your journey begins now.
Did you love what you’ve read and want to dive deeper?
If you're ready to elevate your fashion design journey, send an email to blessingauraofficial@gmail.com to join our community. Connect with like-minded individuals, share your passion, and let's grow together.
This is just the beginning—your adventure in fashion design has only just started!
Looking forward to connecting with you!
