How to Start a Home-based Fashion Design Business

December of 1993 I graduated with a business degree from Illinois State University. With a new sewing machine and serger as a graduation gift from my family I started a home based custom apparel business. In 1995, with the encouragement of my now husband, I created an 18 piece collection and held a private fashion show for the local women. This show is what really launched my career in custom couture and has now led to my recognition as a fashion and couture sewing expert nationwide. Focusing on high-end women's custom apparel and then ultimately adding alterations, personal shopping, and wardrobe planning/consulting to the agenda not only allowed me to expand my clientele, but became a great source of additional income and experience. 2006 - I decided to make the move to a professional studio outside of the home. Spring of 2010, I collaborated with Michigan's Southwest Symphony on a fashion show fundraiser event. In front of a sold out crowd, I launched my first women's ready-to-wear line. I began selling my clothing line in my studio, online, and private trunk shows held at clients homes. My collection is now in a boutique in Saugatuck, Michigan.Recent Press· I currently write a monthly "Fashion and Trends" column for Patternreview.com· July 2011 - "Fashion and Couture Sewing Expert" on a new PBS series "It's Sew Easy” - on 8 episodes· May 2011 - Main Guest Speaker at Pattern Review's 10 year anniversary event· May 2011 - Guest Speaker at the Summer Challenge Fishing Tournament· April 15 - May 31, 2011 - Main Exhibit at the Box Factory for the Arts (large display of couture garments)· April 2011 - Who's Who in Business on the Brenda Layne Radio show· November 2010, one of 12 featured fashion designers in the Chicago Showcase, chaired by Mayor Daly· Article in the Herald Palladuim · August 2010 Cover of Great Lakes Angler Magazine (also fish professionally)· Winner of the 2008 Passion for Fashion competition from American Sewing Expo· Audience favorite of the 2007 Passion for Fashion competition from American Sewing Expo