The job market for fashion designers in the United States

There are currently an estimated 23,800 fashion designers in the United States. The fashion designer job market is expected to grow by 2.5% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are fashion designers?

CareerExplorer rates fashion designers with a F employability rating, meaning this career should provide poor employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 6,200 fashion designers. That number is based on 600 additional fashion designers, and the retirement of 5,600 existing fashion designers.

Are fashion designers in demand?

Competition in the field of fashion design is due to the occupation’s traditionally low turnover, low annual rate of new job creation, and glamour associated with the industry. Most opportunities are with firms that design mass market clothing sold in department and chain stores; this is in response to the increasing demand for stylish clothing, footwear, and accessories which are affordable, especially among middle income consumers. Fewer available jobs are expected in design firms which cater to high-end stores and boutiques, as the demand for expensive fashion is declining relative to other luxury products and services. Employers generally prefer designers who possess a two- or four- year degree and are knowledgeable about textiles, fabrics, ornamentation, and fashion trends.

What’s the supply of fashion designers?

The fashion designer industry is concentrated in New York, California, Florida

Fashion Designer job market by state