A freelance fashion designer explains the design development stage of designing a collection.

Last week, I shared my fashion moodboard process for my SS26 fashion concept, ‘Seabreeze Cocoa’ (see my last post).

Today, I’m excited to move into the next stage: design development.

This is where the concept comes to life through product. Ultimately, it’s the product that allows the customer to feel a part of the story.

As a freelance fashion designer, I always keep the customer in mind. I remember my university tutor telling me I had a very commercial handwriting, which I didn’t think was a compliment at first, but to me it was. I knew I wanted to design for the high street, not the runway.

It’s not enough for something to look beautiful; it has to make the wearer feel amazing while wearing it. We all have those go-to pieces that lift us every time we put them on. Those are the pieces I love to create, not the pieces that stay in the wardrobe with the tag still on.

Ive decided to share the first designs in black and white so the detail is clear and not to disguise the details. I'll share the coloured versions in my next post I promise.

A key element in this collection is smocking. It was big for SS25 and I know it will continue for SS26. Smocking brings femininity, comfort, and ease of fit. We al know if it doesn't fit, it's not being sold. Smocking has been around since the 14th century for a reason: it gives woven garments the ease of fit that you get similar to a jersey product, making them both flattering and forgiving, regardless of body shape.

The development stage is about proportions, placement of details and consideration of finishes and fabrications.

This collection captures the essence of high summer with skin on show, those final golden days, and the freedom before the layering season begins.

If you’re looking for a freelance womenswear designer to bring your next collection to life or to translate your moodboards into best selling product, I have availability from October onwards. Let’s work together to create designs that connect, inspire, and sell. Get in touch today via my contact page.