Fashion Designers Get Paid: Build Your Fashion Career On Your Own Terms podcast

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Ever wondered how some freelance fashion designers land dream clients with just a simple email? In this episode, Heidi Herrman breaks down her secret sauce for securing a $3,000 project with a personalized pitch. From using ChatGPT to find niche brands to crafting an authentic, heartfelt message, she shares all the ins and outs of her process. You’ll be inspired by Heidi's genuine approach and her knack for turning a one-off gig into an ongoing client relationship. But it doesn't stop there! Heidi dives deeper into setting the right rates, negotiating contracts, and building trust with clients. She talks about her experiences working with various brands, including a cool outdoor brand called Fayette Chill and a vibrant apparel company named Sky Goat. Whether you’re a seasoned freelancer or just starting, this episode is packed with golden nuggets to help you grow your fashion business. Tune in to get the full scoop on how to win clients and create lasting connections in the fashion industry! Resources: 228: How this Freelance Fashion Designer Built A MILLION Dollar Design Agency with Connie Bourgeois 232: Why This Freelance Fashion Designer Is Turning Down $120k+ Job Offers with Rachael Kranick About Heidi: Welcome to the creative world of Heidi Herrman, a visionary multi-media artist and seasoned fashion designer. With over two decades of experience in apparel design and development, Heidi has merged her passion for contemporary art and sustainable fashion into H² Design & Art. At H², She specializes in innovative textile, encaustic, and mixed media artwork, as well as forward-thinking, sustainable fashion solutions. With a focus on thoughtful design, sustainability, and product innovation, Heidi collaborates with companies and individuals who share a commitment to creating meaningful, impactful products and experiences. Connect with Heidi: Email her at heidiherrman@gmail.com Check out her website View her portfolio Follow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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247: Attracting Premium Clients on Upwork: How Carolyn Landed A $2700 Project (without pitching) 39:45

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Ever wonder how some freelancers land big-ticket clients while others struggle to get responses? Imagine setting up your Upwork profile in just half a day and scoring a $27,100 project just weeks later. Sounds unreal, right? That’s exactly what happened to Carolyn. In this episode, she breaks down the key moves that helped her attract premium clients—without years of trial and error. Carolyn shares how she went from working with high-street brands in the UK and navigating the job market in Hong Kong to building a thriving freelance career in knitwear design. We dive into her approach to pricing projects, crafting pitches that actually get responses, and the simple tweaks she made to her Upwork profile to stand out in a sea of freelancers. Plus, she spills some insider tips on using Illustrator for knitwear design and how she landed repeat work with top clients. If you're looking to boost your freelance income, attract high-quality clients, and learn real-world strategies from someone who’s been there, hit play now! About Carolyn: After studying Fashion Knitwear Design at Nottingham Trent University in the UK, Carolyn moved to Hong Kong for a one-year graduate trainee placement. More than 20 years later, she is still there. Initially, she worked for a small, family-owned knitwear manufacturer that supplied the UK and EU markets. Later, she transitioned to a large corporate sourcing office, just before the pandemic. In April 2024, Carolyn was made redundant but quickly adapted. She started FAST in May and began freelancing in July, securing her first project that same month. Her expertise lies in knitwear, with extensive experience in women's and men's wear, as well as some experience in children's wear. Ultimately, Carolyn chose to focus on womenswear as her niche. Connect with Carolyn: Email her at carolyn.chandler@gmail.com Follow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Connect on Upwork Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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246: The Pricing Strategy That Doubled Amy’s Freelance Income (without doubling her workload) 40:27

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Ever feel like you’re undercharging for your freelance services? Amy Barnhart shares how a smart pricing shift and one game-changing service helped her nearly double her income in just one year. In this episode, Amy Barnhart, a freelance fashion designer, reveals the strategic decisions that transformed her business, including raising her rates for tech packs and introducing a new print design service tailored to the men’s golf fashion niche. These moves not only boosted her revenue but also strengthened her client relationships and positioned her as an industry expert. Amy also spills her secrets for running successful discovery calls that consistently convert leads into paying clients. Whether you’re trying to figure out when to raise your rates, how to expand your services, or ways to stand out in your niche, Amy’s insights are packed with actionable advice and real-world examples you can use right away. If you’re ready to grow your freelance income, click play now to learn how Amy’s strategies can work for you! Resources: 133: The Fashion Freelancer Who Never Wanted to Be a Freelancer with Amy Barnhart 197: How to Sell Yourself As A Freelance Fashion Designer (without feeling gross) with Nikki Rausch About Amy: Amy helps men's golf startups transition from design to production, collaborating on creative designs while managing the intricate technical details, allowing them to focus on the bigger picture. Connect with Amy: Visit her website Email her at: amy@amylynnsdesign.com Follow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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245: The Art of Soft Selling: How Gabriella 4x'd Her Rate Without Pitching 43:57

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Discover how Gabriella Bilotta transformed a heartfelt LinkedIn message into a six-figure client! In this episode, Gabriella shares her journey of building genuine connections, landing high-paying clients, and transitioning to full-time freelancing. She dives into her background in lingerie and sustainability, the value of mentorship with her coach Alison, and the role personal branding played in her success. Gabriella also unpacks her strategies for pricing, networking, and fostering meaningful client relationships. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your freelancing game, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you build a thriving career. If you’re ready to learn how authentic connections and smart strategies can transform your freelancing journey, click play now and start building your dream career today! About Gabriella: Gabriella Bilotta is a freelance women’s tailoring and contour technical designer based in Toronto, Canada. Passionate about sustainable sourcing, she excels in creating innovative designs that balance style and ethics. After earning her degree in fashion design from Toronto Metropolitan University, she completed a master’s in sustainability at the London College of Fashion. Gabriella believes freelancing enables unique collaborations with talented professionals, driving remarkable advancements in fashion. With a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to excellence, she inspires others to embrace sustainability while pushing the boundaries of design. Connect with Gabriella: Email her at: gabriellabilotta.designs@gmail.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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My Top 10 Biz Challengs in 2024 (plus show updates for 2025) 21:21

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Ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of your favorite podcast? In today's episode, I’m sharing some exciting updates for the Successful Fashion Designer Podcast in 2025 and reflecting on the challenges I faced in 2024. From business hurdles to personal struggles, I’ll dive into what I learned and how those lessons can help you navigate your own journey as we head into the new year. Join me as I share the highs, lows, and everything in between, and let’s get ready for an amazing 2025! Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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244: Sourcing Secrets: How to Find the Perfect Factory and Avoid Expensive Mistakes 46:06

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Walking into a tradeshow with no idea where to start can be intimidating! As a freelancer, having a plan of action for the next fashion trade show you attend can make all the difference. In this episode, I talk live with Andreu David, the Vice President of Sourcing at MAGIC, to get insights from an industry expert on how to make the most of a trade show. Andreu covers everything from understanding market levels and price points to the importance of factory operations and the benefits of attending trade shows. Discover how AI and 3D technology are shaping the future of fashion, and learn about the critical emphasis on sustainability and ethical production practices. Andreu also offers invaluable advice for freelancers and entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for transparency, trust, and strategic networking in building successful industry relationships. If you're in the fashion game, you can't afford to miss his insider tips on working with suppliers, the perks of attending trade shows, and the crucial role of AI and 3D tech in modern fashion. About Andreu: Andreu is the Vice President of SOURCING at MAGIC for Informa Markets Fashion, leading the largest sourcing trade show in North America. With over 20 years of fashion industry experience, he also serves as CEO of Brand Design Architects, teaches at Otis College of Art and Design, and runs his own brand. A graduate of USC (Marketing) and Parsons (Fashion Design), Andreu began his career with a design apprenticeship at Hermès and has held senior roles at Double RL Ralph Lauren, Banana Republic, and a New York startup brand. Connect with Andreu: Visit his website Email him at: sourcing@fashionresource.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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243: $0 to $6500: How this Design Director Landed Big Clients in Her First Month Freelancing 47:00

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Freelancing in fashion might seem risky, but what if it didn’t have to be? You could replace or even exceed your corporate salary in just one month. In this episode, we will share how Aiden got noticed on Upwork, even without ratings. You’ll learn the negotiation tips that helped her turn a $2,000 offer into a $5,000 win. Aiden will also explain how she set up her profile so brands find and contact her, which means she doesn’t have to pitch herself anymore. If you’re tired of the stressful corporate world or feel overlooked by junior designers in interviews, you will enjoy this episode. Resources: Check out Aidenn's Upwork profile here to learn more about their work and services! About Aidenn: Aidenn is an accomplished Fashion Designer with expertise in design, sourcing, and product development. She has led successful product launches, built strategic vendor partnerships, and excels in cost reduction, quality control, and team collaboration. By leveraging user experience insights and new technologies, Aidenn consistently delivers solutions that meet consumer needs, streamline operations, and drive revenue growth. Connect with Aidenn: Visit her website Email her at: theuxfashiondesignagency@gmail.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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242: I Paid $10 for a Tech Pack—and You Won't Believe What Happened 10:30

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How do you compete with low prices on Upwork? Is a bargain the only thing clients will look for? I did an experiment and hired 5 freelancers at 5 different price points to see what you get for a tech pack at each level. The results are shocking and entertaining. Stick with me as I walk through the results, explaining why these low-priced options can lead to big problems for clients and why you shouldn't undervalue your own work. By the end, you'll see why quality tech packs are worth the investment and why it's okay to charge what you're worth. Resources: Watch the full video on YouTube: I Paid 5 Strangers on Upwork To Design a Sweater Download my Tech Pack Template Grab my Guide to Pricing your Freelance Services Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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241: Should You Have Set Package Rates as A Freelance Fashion Designer? 16:53

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Starting with set package rates might feel tempting, but it’s like trying to sew a wedding dress on your first try—it’s better to start small and build up your skills. In today's episode, I'll share a better strategy for finding your pricing sweet spot and how to handle those tricky conversations when clients think your rates are too high. We'll uncover the nuances of custom versus package pricing, how to gauge client reactions, and strategies to ensure your services demonstrate clear value and more. Boost your confidence and revenue as a freelance fashion designer by hitting play to learn these strategies for pricing and communicating your value. Resources: How to Raise Your Freelance Rates in Fashion 💸 (with word for word scripts) How Much Do Fashion Freelancers Charge? (100+ Real-Life Examples) 3 Ways to Calculate Your Freelance Rate for Fashion Designers About Elexis: Based in Atlanta, Elexis is a women’s contemporary designer blending innovation with timeless elegance. With experience at top brands like Milano Di Rouge, Dolls Kill, and J.Crew, she creates trendsetting pieces that empower women. Passionate about the creative process, she sees design as storytelling and problem-solving. When not designing, Elexis draws inspiration from Atlanta’s vibrant energy. Connect with Elexis: Visit her website Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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240: How This Freelance Fashion Designer Landed a $15k Project on LinkedIn 53:29

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Ever had a client respond with, "Wow, that's a bit steep"? If you’re charging you're worth, you’ve probably seen that reaction before. But there are some easy ways to help clients get on board with your deserved rates. Take Alison Pickthorn, for instance. She’s a student in my hands-on coaching program, Fast Track Turbo, and she just landed a $15,000 client. She chats about maintaining fair pricing, understanding your value, and how crafting a compelling, client-specific proposal can make all the difference. This episode is all about finding fulfillment, mastering the freelancer hustle, and staying true to your worth! Listen now to get inspired by Alison's proactive hustle, the incredible support from a coaching program, and the rewarding freedom of freelance life that reignited her passion for design. Resources: 235: What If A Brand Says You’re Too Expensive? Here’s How You Still Get the Client About Allison: Allison is an apparel designer with over 20 years of experience designing kids, baby, and licensed apparel for large retailers. In early 2024, she decided to transition into freelancing to continue doing what she loves while leaving behind what she doesn't. She lives in Seattle, Washington, with her amazing daughter and their two lazy cats. Connect with Allison: Visit her website Email her at: allisonpickthorn@gmail.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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239: Why Hourly Pricing Is A Race to the Bottom (And How to Make More Money) with Jonathan Stark: Part 2 29:10

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This is Part 2 of my interview with Jonathan Stark. If you're pricing hourly, you're potentially leaving a lot of money on the table in your freelance fashion design biz. In this episode, business coach Jonathan Stark talks about value-based pricing. He shares his journey from charging by the hour to adopting a pricing strategy focusing on what clients truly value. From aligning services with client revenue goals, to three-tier value pricing strategies, to becoming meaningfully different, get ready to uncover some key insights that could totally change the way you think about pricing and your relationships with clients. If you're ready to shift your perspective on pricing and client engagement from transactional to transformational, get inspired by real-life examples, practical tips, and the psychological underpinnings that make value-based pricing a winning strategy, click play now and significantly increase your profits. Resources: Value Pricing Bootcamp , a free six-day email course to teach you how to make more money without working more hours. Book: Value Based Fees by Alan Weiss About Jonathan: Jonathan Stark is a former software developer who is on a mission to rid the world of hourly billing. He is the author of Hourly Billing Is Nuts, the host of Ditching Hourly, and writes a daily newsletter on pricing for independent professionals. Connect with Jonathan: Visit his website Email him at: jstark@jonathanstark.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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238: Why Hourly Pricing Is A Race to the Bottom (And How to Make More Money) with Jonathan Stark: Part 1 46:07

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If you're pricing hourly, you're potentially leaving a lot of money on the table in your freelance fashion design biz. In this episode, business coach Jonathan Stark talks about value-based pricing. He shares his journey from charging by the hour to adopting a pricing strategy focusing on what clients truly value. From aligning services with client revenue goals, to three-tier value pricing strategies, to becoming meaningfully different, get ready to uncover some key insights that could totally change the way you think about pricing and your relationships with clients. If you're ready to shift your perspective on pricing and client engagement from transactional to transformational, get inspired by real-life examples, practical tips, and the psychological underpinnings that make value-based pricing a winning strategy, click play now and significantly increase your profits. Resources: Value Pricing Bootcamp , a free six-day email course to teach you how to make more money without working more hours. Book: Value Based Fees by Alan Weiss About Jonathan: Jonathan Stark is a former software developer who is on a mission to rid the world of hourly billing. He is the author of Hourly Billing Is Nuts, the host of Ditching Hourly, and writes a daily newsletter on pricing for independent professionals. Connect with Jonathan: Visit his website Email him at: jstark@jonathanstark.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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237: How Her 'Viral' LinkedIn Post Turned Into An Amazing Freelance Client 58:58

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Can a LinkedIn post really transform your freelance fashion design career? In today's episode, I talk with fashion designer Fernanda Martinelli about how one Linkedin post took off and helped land her a client! We discuss the strategies for leveraging a popular post and how to turn new leads into dream clients. Find out how she builds meaningful client relationships, leveraging tools like AI-generated images and detailed proposals. Whether you're new to freelancing or have been around for a while, these social media strategies can make a huge difference in your client-finding strategies! Resources: Read Fernanda’s LinkedIn post that led to three discovery calls with brands and an amazing client. Check out NewArc.ai . Please note that this is an affiliate link. About Fernanda: Fernanda, originally from Argentina, graduated with a Bachelor’s in Fashion and Textile Design from the University of Buenos Aires. Now based in Canada, she has worked as a Fashion Designer and Product Developer since 2019, specializing in men’s and women’s apparel, including workwear and outerwear. A lifelong art enthusiast, Fernanda explores new trends and techniques, blending creativity with functionality in her designs. She also completed a certification in Fashion and Sustainability Management at the European Institute of Innovation for Sustainability, where she has served as a tutor. Connect with Fernanda: Visit her website Email her at: fmmartinelli@gmail.com Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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236: How This Freelance Fashion Designer Broke Into A Brand New Category (after corporate burnout) 52:27

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Are you scared of getting scammed from factories? Here are the red flags you should look out for. Natalie is a corporate fashion designer turned freelance after some major burnout and the pandemic. In this episode, she talks about things like how she got her clients, some sourcing red flags to look out for, how she sets her prices, and so much more. Natalie's story shows how she bounced back and came up with fresh ideas, how she's making customized mini portfolios, and how she landed gigs through smart outreach. This episode is packed full of inspiration for your freelance journey in fashion! Listen now to discover strategies for finding legitimate factories, avoiding scams, and pricing your freelance work confidently. Resources: Explore different examples of Natalie's mini portfolios Download Natalie's project pricing calculator About Natalie: Since graduating from fashion school, Natalie always aspired to be a freelance designer. After spending over a decade climbing the corporate ladder in NYC and burning out during the pandemic, she transitioned into freelancing, building a diverse client base. In 2022, she left corporate and now works with brands like Classic Rock Couture and Snow Glow, while launching her own accessory line, Mary+Shelley. She also helps entrepreneurs grow their brands and teaches part-time at the Institute for Career Advancement. Connect with Natalie: Visit her website Email her at: Natalie.L.Kraska@gmail.com Follow on Instagram Connect on LinkedIn Sick of being tied to a desk and want more freedom in your day, snag my free training: How to Freelance in Fashion (even if you're terrified you don't have all the answers) by clicking here .…

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235: What If A Brand Says You're Too Expensive? Here's How You Still Get the Client 27:42

acum 20 weeks27:42