Incomes of self-employed and freelance Designers vary with their talent, business ability, reputation, acceptance in the community, and type of clientele. They may be guaranteed a percentage of the gross, or be paid on a unit or retainer basis. Such earnings can exceed those of salaried Designers. Hours Designers work a 40-hour week but may work considerable overtime during rush periods. Benefits Fringe benefits vary with employers.
Designers often negotiate their salaries and fringe benefits individually with employers.
Some firms provide one to two-week paid vacations and group health insurance plans. Education and Training Artistic talent is crucial in fashion designing. People in this field need a good sense of line, color and form, and a sense of balance and proportion, and an eye for detail. The work requires initiative, self-discipline, perseverance, stamina, and the ability to organize and work independently. A portfolio, representative of a Designer's best work, is sometimes more important in finding a job than an extensive education.