How do you stay up on your craft?

One huge key for me is studying designers, brands, magazines and reading books on the business side of fashion for what's hot and most importantly, what’s not!

I have monthly subscriptions to countless sources that provide me with important information on trends and brands! One of my favorite things to do when I look through a magazine is to see what I would wear off each page. It gets challenging! Some pages, I want every look and for others it's a total no on everything! What that little game does is stretch my imagination and gets me thinking really hard about whether I would wear a look, where I would go in it, or how I could add my own flare to it.

There are many ways to expand your knowledge in your field without even leaving your bed. Whatever you choose, make it fun! Flipping through magazines or following up on a designer's new collection isn't a chore for me, it's a release. I find myself excited and often lost in what I'm doing. I have come to realize I take in so much more information that way.

Another piece of advice, diversify your resources!!! Please, do not limit yourself to one style, genre, or era in whatever your niche is. Being able to pull from various areas in your field will always make you stand out and will allow you to think bigger. Bring that wild card to the table and never stop looking for what's different!

Lastly, share your goals and passions with others. You might be surprised how people can and WILL pour into you if they know what you're going after. My boss knows my career goals in fashion so he gifted me a year subscription to Vogue for Christmas last December! Each month I'm excited to watch my collection grow and discover what's up and coming in my field. I’ll be sure to thank him when I make it!