Essentials of Apparel Development for Freelancers

An insider’s guide for freelancers working in the fashion industry or interested in the world of apparel.
About this Event

Are you a freelancer curious about how fashion products go from ideas to finished garments? Join this deep dive into the apparel creation process, designed for freelancers who work with or adjacent to fashion brands, including photographers, marketers, e-commerce pros, and more.

This session will walk you through the key stages of apparel development, from initial concept to final distribution. You'll learn the differences between working with blanks and creating custom-developed pieces, understand the importance of essential labeling regulations, and see how production timelines impact product readiness. By the end, you’ll have a roadmap to help your clients—and yourself—navigate the complex world of fashion production with confidence and insight.

Key learning outcomes:

Defining Product Categories and Setting Feasibility Parameters: Discover why determining a product’s category, price range, and production volume are essential first steps in the apparel creation process.
Choosing Blanks vs. Custom-Developed Apparel: Understand the pros and cons of using blank garments versus creating custom designs, including how each option affects cost, timelines, and flexibility.
Navigating US Apparel Regulations and FTC Compliance: Learn the basics of US apparel labeling requirements and how to register an FTC RN (Registration Number), helping clients stay compliant with industry standards.
Mastering the Tech Pack and Product Development Timeline : Gain insights into tech pack essentials, development stages, and how lead times affect final product delivery.

About the instructor:

Cristina Hernandez is a freelance fashion designer specializing in knitwear, 3D design, and sustainable fashion. With 15 years of experience in the apparel industry, she works closely with small, emerging brands and entrepreneurs to bring their vision to life—from concept to sourcing and production. Cristina’s expertise in high-end knitwear and 3D design ensures that each collection is crafted with precision, reducing waste and enhancing quality. Through detailed tech packs and a commitment to sustainable materials, she helps brands refine their designs before production, enabling them to create ethically crafted, small-batch collections.

As a multi-disciplinary creative, Cristina also excels in graphics, trend forecasting, and art direction, offering a comprehensive approach to fashion design that integrates both the artistic and technical aspects of the industry.