Tasks depend on the market the designer is working for, but core responsibilities include:-
1. Creating/ visualising an idea and producing a design by hand or using computer-aided design (CAD);
2. Keeping up to date with emerging fashion trends as well as general trends relating to fabrics, colours and shapes.
3. Planning and developing ranges.
4. Working with others in the design team, such as buyers and forecasters, to develop products to meet a brief.
5. Liaising closely with sales, buying and production teams on an ongoing basis to ensure the item suits the customer, market and price points.
6. Understanding design from a technical perspective, i.e. producing patterns, toiles and technical specifications for designs.
7. Sourcing, selecting and buying fabrics, trims, fastenings and embellishments.
8. Adapting existing designs for mass production.
9. Developing a pattern that is cut and sewn into sample garments and supervising the making up of these, including fitting, detailing and adaptations; overseeing production.
10. Negotiating with customers and suppliers.
11. Managing marketing, finances and other business activities, if working on a self-employed basis.
