Work Experience - Sadie Vincent

Being an art and design student offers an incredible gateway to exploring and applying creativity in the real world. As an 18-year-old design student, I recently embarked on a work placement at Sauce and Brown—a brand that I've long admired and frequently purchased from. Join me as I share my creative journey, unveiling the challenges, triumphs, and invaluable lessons I learned during my time at this thrilling fashion label. Securing a work placement at such a respected local design brand was a dream come true for me. The anticipation of entering the unfamiliar world of fashion design and gaining firsthand insights into the inner workings of a successful brand filled me with excitement and determination.

When I submitted my portfolio to the Sauce & Brown team, their enthusiastic response and acceptance as a work placement student thrilled me. I wasted no time immersing myself in the design process, brainstorming diverse ideas and marveling at the enchanting wonders within their magnificent shop—be it the sketches adorning the walls or the captivating trinkets that caught my eye. From day one, I dove headfirst into the entire design process, collaborating with experienced designers and gaining insights into their creative techniques, including sketching, fabric selection, and mood board creation. As I eagerly absorbed their expertise, I gradually earned their trust, being entrusted with various tasks such as research assistance and the development of new design concepts. The brand's unwavering commitment to innovation and meticulous attention to detail fueled my own creativity, pushing me to think beyond boundaries.

A vital aspect of my work placement involved grasping the significance of market research. I delved into the meticulous process of analyzing current trends, understanding consumer preferences, and conducting competitor analysis. This crucial step ensured that the brand stayed one step ahead, resonating with their target audience through thoughtfully crafted designs. Through this experience, I learned the importance of staying informed about the ever-evolving fashion landscape and its pivotal role in shaping design decisions.

Collaborating with an immensely talented team of designers, pattern makers, and garment technicians was undeniably one of the most rewarding aspects of my placement. Witnessing their unwavering dedication, exquisite craftsmanship, and keen eye for detail was truly inspiring. They generously shared their wealth of knowledge and skills, guiding me through the intricacies of garment construction and pattern drafting. The collaborative environment nurtured my exploratory spirit, empowering me to embrace new techniques and refine my design abilities. In the brief period I spent working in the fashion industry, my eyes were opened to the daily challenges faced by designers—ranging from tight deadlines to unexpected design revisions. It was through these experiences that I truly grasped the importance of adaptability and resilience. As a creative design student, I had often shied away from digital design, finding it challenging to enhance my traditional work using certain applications. However, during my work placement, I set aside those concerns and wholeheartedly dedicated myself to producing clear and distinctive designs in my signature style. Overcoming these obstacles taught me the value of perseverance, effective communication, and maintaining a positive mindset even in the face of adversity.

As my work placement drew to a close, I took a moment to reflect on my journey and personal growth. The experience sharpened my technical skills, broadened my understanding of the design process, and reaffirmed my passion for fashion design—especially within the realm of digital design, which was entirely new to me at the start of my placement. I gained confidence in my abilities and cultivated a deeper appreciation for the delicate fusion of creativity and practicality demanded by the industry.

In summary, my work placement at Sauce & Brown provided a transformative experience that solidified my aspirations to pursue a career in fashion design. This invaluable opportunity allowed me to witness the inner workings of the industry firsthand, collaborating with talented professionals while honing my own creative flair. I will forever cherish the lessons learned, the connections made, and the memories forged during this exciting chapter of my design journey.