As a Garment Technologist, you will be working closely with designers, pattern cutters and graders as well as supporting buying teams through all stages of product development, from initial ideas to manufacture. Garment technologists give advice on suitable fabrics, suggest changes to designs, ensure items can be produced to budget and make sure the correct garment construction methods are used, among other duties. Garment technology is a diverse and exciting field of the retail industry, and currently in high demand.
What does a Garment Technologist do?
The core function of a Garment Technologist is to choose the right fabric and cut of a garment to ensure a perfect fit, while keeping in mind budget, trend and manufacturing constraints. A Garment Technologist may work for either a large manufacturer or an individual retailer.
This is the key to many supply chains, as you would be working closely alongside merchandisers and buyers to make the perfect product. The most important thing for a Garment Technologist is consistency a piece needs to fit any body size perfectly, faultless embroidery, trims, zips and detail. In this industry, it’s all about the little things you need an eye for detail. The demand for garment technologists is huge in the industry right now, meaning you’ve got a great chance of landing your dream job.
What do I need to do to become a Garment Technologist?
You’ll need to understand textiles and the manufacturing process to do this job. If you’re interested in clothing retail and enjoy doing creative work, then this role could be for you. Many employers will expect you to have a degree in a related subject, such as garment technology and production. Some courses also combine garment technology with fashion design.
You may be able to get into this job through an advanced apprenticeship scheme. You could join a company in a junior role and work your way up to become a Garment Technologist. Most jobs are with manufacturing and retail companies in the fashion industry. You could also be employed in companies producing technical textiles, such as those used for uniforms within the armed forces and emergency services.
From a Garment Technologist
For a better understanding of what it means to be a Garment Technologist, we sat down with Lucinda, a Garment Technologist at River Island. Taking us through the core functions of a Garment Tech: “I work with the buyers and designers on a daily basis, and we take the product from initial thought to what you see in the store. Without our say-so, it wouldn’t go into the store.”
What is the best thing about working in garment technology? “We see the product before anyone else,” Lucinda told us. She also shared that one of the most rewarding things about the job is taking a product that hasn’t met expectations and bringing it back in line with a designer’s vision.
Lucinda is keen to stress the importance of work experience when it comes to landing the job you really want. She started a placement at River Island in her third year of university and landed her Garment Technology position as a result. Here at the FRA, our three-week placements are designed to give you the same exposure, connections and experience.
If you are seeking a role in the fashion industry check out our jobs board.
