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Portrait of Linda Tain

Professor

Linda Tain

  • School of Art and Design
  • Fashion Design Department

Portfolio Presentation for Fashion Designers

Portfolio Presentation for Fashion Designers, Fourth Edition, is still your best guide to showing your designs, skill sets, and creativity, to get you that job. In new images throughout, the book shows examples of croquis books, spec and flat drawings, and visual research presentations from both fashion professionals and students. From concept through finished product, Portfolio Presentation for Fashion Designers is an indispensable tool to help you prepare your career for the next chapter. Included are projects that address global issues such as sustainability, social responsibility, and artisanal skills.

Cover of Portfolio Presentation for Fashion Designers

How did you come up with the idea?
Twenty years ago there were no books on Portfolio Presentation. A colleague in Fashion Design encouraged me to write it as a guide for students & as a tool for teaching techniques. Although technology has altered the industry considerably, hands-on skills still play an essential role. The ultimate portfolio consists of a distinct blend of technology, informational design skills & the designer’s personal vision.

What was your research process like?
I conducted in-person interviews with students, designers, creative design directors & merchandisers from a variety of markets for the best possible overview of portfolio practices and expectations.

What are you proudest of?
This book is considered the benchmark text on the subject of portfolios and is required reading in many fashion design programs. Two decades after the original printing, the updated fourth edition remains as relevant today as it was 20 years ago.

  • Professor at FIT for 40+ years
  • Teaches fashion art courses including foundation, design specializations, and history of clothing