Joanna Delaney ~ Accomplished Bridal Designer Joins The Cut
We are more than excited to announce the newest industry expert to join The Cut Fashion Design Academy is accomplished and well-respected Joanna Delaney. Joanna has been working in the industry for many years running her own custom bridal business. She will be teaching Pattern Making, Couture Pattern Making, and Technical Pattern Making instructor.
Let’s Meet Joanna!
How did you get into design?
“I became fascinated with creating my own clothing in high school. I loved that I could come up with a concept and be able to wear my own creations that were practical and wearable. I was already making custom clothing for friends at that time and had a love for art and design - so I chose Fashion Design as it was a perfect mix of my two interests.”
What's one thing most people don't know about you?
That I’ve been in the musical Oliver Twist twice - once as the character Nancy and the other The Artful Dodger. I love to sing.
What's the craziest experience you've had working in the Fashion Industry?
Hmmm - there’s always a crazy story for every year that goes by. I sent a dress to the UK for a photoshoot once and it arrived literally an hour before the shoot when all parties were ready to go hair, makeup, models, photographer, etc. I once accidentally sewed a press mitt into a dress. I was called to do last minute touches on a client's dress at her home the day before her wedding and afterwards, her family insisted I stayed and have drinks with them - on this day I was also moving apartments and had a moving truck waiting for me at my new place. Tons more stories, the list goes on…
What are your three biggest tips for students trying to break into the fashion industry?
Three tips:
1. Be willing to do more than you are paid for, there will be other ways in which you are compensated, such as a valuable network and references and work experience that will take you much further in the long run.
2. Try to get more breadth of work in the beginning rather than depth so you can see what area of fashion you like best - from there repetition and consistency will cultivate expertise.
3. Leave your ego at the door.
What does it take to be a successful fashion designer?
Find the balance between listening to your client/employer and injecting your own expertise and knowledge. Be open to opportunities. Use your intuition (if it feels wrong - it usually is and vice versa). Know that your product is needed and not just something you think the market will like (aka do your research). Consistency and action always wins. Make time for rest and fun. Be in it for the long game.
What is something you've learned about the industry along with your career that was a surprise to you?
“I’ve been surprised by how supportive and collaborative the local industry has been over the years, there is room for everyone. Sometimes all you have to do is put the word out of what you plan to accomplish (to the right people of course), and before you know it, it’s happening.”
