However the industry is continually expanding as is the manufacturing base to support the industry. Some designers cater to small specialty stores or particular product lines such as uniforms or leisure wear. The bulk of the designers however tend to find work with mass production manufacturers as opening in wholesale couture are few. New designers with manufacturing companies usually rotate through jobs as assistant to the pattern maker, draper, sample maker and dressmaker. With experience they might become design assistants.
Many freelancers produce designs for clients.
Some inventive fashion designers find work as costume designers for theatre, opera, film and television. Self employment, as boutique owners and manufacturers, is the aim of many. It is not easy to get established but a considerable number manage particularly if their business acumen matches their design or craft ability. These changes have been a response to increased competition and the introduction of advanced technology. As people add their new skills to traditional ones they achieve higher standards bringing in its wake greater job satisfaction and earnings.