Industry professionals' evaluation of apparel design student portfolios

摘要

Portfolios are an important component of an apparel design student's application package for both internships and entry-level jobs in the industry. The portfolio must be aesthetically pleasing and demonstrate the skills desired by the design professionals making hiring decisions. This paper presents the findings of a study conducted with 51 industry professionals regarding the content and presentation of apparel design portfolios. Results indicate that students must demonstrate a breadth of strong creative and technical design skills. Portfolios submitted for an internship are expected to differ in content from the ones submitted for an entry-level design position. Design managers were found to use the portfolio's layout and content as a cue to the applicant's skill level, organisational skills, and work habits. Additionally, participants provided advice to students on how to present their portfolio during a job interview.