Creative Arts & Design
Fashion Designer
You design clothing that tells a story about who people are.
- Starting salary
- R10 000 – R20 000
- Job demand
- Emerging
- Key subjects
- Visual Arts, Design
What do they do?
You design clothing that tells a story about who people are.
A day in the life
You sketch designs, choose fabric, make patterns, sew samples and prepare collections.
Skills you need
- Drawing
- Sewing
- Trend sense
- Business skill
School subjects that help
- Visual Arts
- Design
- Consumer Studies
- Business Studies
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 1–3 years of study, or longer at university.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2Fashion design diploma or degree
- 3Assistant designer
- 4Own label or brand designer
Ways in: University of Technology · Private college · TVET College · Entrepreneurship. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- University of Johannesburg
- TVET Colleges nationwide
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R10 000 – R20 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R25 000 – R45 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R50 000 – R120 000+ (own brand varies)
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Sketch outfits weekly
- • Learn to sew or alter clothes
- • Study SA designers
Try this career
Design a three-piece collection inspired by your culture and sketch it.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.