New designers need many different services. If you are planning production, you will need professional services. The fashion world can be very dificult to navigate, and it is very easy to waste precious time, money, and effort. Your best preparation is research, quality service providers, and strong relationships. To learn more about starting a clothing or other sewn product line, read The Entrepreneur's Guide to Sewn Product Manufacturing.

Join the Fashion Incubator discussion group.

Contact a sewing and related services contractor. A good example can be found by following this link.

Get sourcing information by visiting or contacting New York City's Fashion Kiosk.

Do your research by visiting quality libraries and/or museums. Some suggestions are The Library at FIT in New York City, The Fashion Bookstore in Los Angeles, or the FIT booksore, not to mention endless online resources and bookstores scattered across the globe.