Here's how you can maintain resilience and motivation as a fashion designer during slow business periods.

During those slower times, it’s easy to feel a bit stuck creatively. For me, finding new sources of inspiration sometimes could just me browsing through 3D art communities work that people share. This has never fails to spark new ideas. Another favourite of mine is watching fashion documentary. The blend of music, storytelling, and visual aesthetics often triggers fresh ideas and perspectives. My take is: Inspiration truly is everywhere; you just need to take a moment to look around and let it find you!

To keep myself on track during slow periods, I set small, manageable goals. For example, if business is slow, I might just decide to upskill my 3D fashion skills or learn a new 3D modeling technique or even design a mini collection around a fun theme. These little goals gives me a clear focus and most times has helped me feel productive, even when things aren’t super busy. I feel it's a great way to turn a quiet time into a chance for growth and creativity. These small goals keep me motivated and make sure I’m always moving forward, turning those slow moments into valuable opportunities for improvement and learning.

Firstly, acquiring additional skills such as digital marketing, social media management, or even learning new design software can diversify their expertise and open up new opportunities. These skills not only enhance their professional capabilities but also make them more adaptable in a competitive industry. For instance, mastering online sales platforms can help designers reach a broader audience and boost sales even during downturns. Moreover, learning skills like trend forecasting or sustainable fashion practices can keep designers innovative and aligned with industry trends, fostering long-term resilience. Embracing continuous learning not only sustains motivation but also equips designers with the tools to navigate in business.

In my experience, I consider fashion to be a dynamic world where innovation happens every day. For me, there’s no room for a lack of motivation because there is always something new to learn and improve. You can continually learn from different areas to better connect and achieve improved results collectively. To me, the design department acts as the link that integrates various areas such as marketing, production, and finance. By learning from these areas, you can enhance the workflow between your department and others, leading to more efficient and effective collaboration.

Fashion is often a fast paced industry where we can become addicted to the cortisol and adrenaline rush it can bring which eventually leads to burn out. When there are moments of quiet, use this to your advantage and practise slowing down and resting. Resting is a huge part of development but something that isn't valued in modern day society. Like having skills of fashion design or pattern cutting, resting & relaxation is also a skill that takes practise to master. Without the skill of relaxation, it will be hard to find balance & true happiness. Instead of seeing moments of quiet during business periods as negative, see this as a opportunity to practise resting which will builds resilience & opens up space for inspiration and creativity.