Before you sketch a single thing, do the research. Learn the four questions every fashion collection needs answered first — from IFD's Britta Cabanos.

The gap between studying fashion and running a fashion business feels enormous. Here's how eight real designers actually closed it — plus practical advice for students ready to make the leap themselves.

Every independent designer hits the same wall: the moment your creative practice becomes a business. Spreadsheets, pricing, client contracts — none of it feels like the reason you got into fashion in the first place. But mastering the business side doesn't mean abandoning your creative instincts. It means learning to protect them. Here's how to build the operational backbone your brand needs, without losing the vision that makes it yours

What's catching our attention, sparking curiosity, and shaping the direction of fashion right now. This month: the tools changing how products are made, the designers building with intention, and the cultural moment reminding us why craft will always matter — framed for independent designers and small brands.

Over the past few years, I’ve dedicated significant time to creating posts, newsletters, designer features, industry insights, NYFW recaps, interviews, and stories about the people shaping our industry. I’ve truly enjoyed this work, especially the storytelling aspect. Highlighting designers, entrepreneurs, and innovators who are making a difference in fashion is deeply rewarding.

Here’s your go-to guide for some exciting events happening in December 2025, spanning from London to Portland to New York. We’ve even included some special IFD community events just for you! So, grab your favorite cozy drink, get comfy, and let’s brainstorm a fun and mindful month together!

Launching a fashion brand from home takes more than creativity — it requires structure, systems, and strategy. From sourcing low-minimum materials and setting up your business legally, to pressure-testing suppliers and marketing on a budget, success depends on what happens behind the seams. Discover how to build a home-based fashion brand that’s sustainable, profitable, and primed for growth — all while staying true to your creative vision.

You're in the right place if you're a mid-career fashion professional or an emerging designer looking to pivot into sustainable and ethical fashion. The fashion industry is evolving rapidly—no longer driven solely by speed and trend but by intention, responsibility, and purpose.

AI Generated Images The fashion industry is evolving at lightning speed, and staying ahead means embracing the tools and strategies that...