180: How This Pattern Cutter Freelanced for Alexander McQueen (While Still in Fashion School)

Imagine freelancing for one of the biggest names in the fashion industry while still in fashion school!If you're thinking that's impossible, then listen to today's episode to hear how our guest, Jade Wei, a freelance pattern cutter, did just that - landing a freelance gig with Alexander McQueen!From interning to launching her own brand, Jade opens up about the unique path she took in the fashion industry. Discover how she consistently attracts clients, raises her prices, and maintains her creative freedom. With an uplifting and inspiring perspective on life, Jade shares her insights into both the fashion world and the journey of finding your own passion. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast or simply someone looking for a boost of motivation, this episode will leave you feeling inspired to embrace your own unique path and create a brand that makes a meaningful impact.About Our GuestJade is a freelance designer based in London, specializing in 3D pattern-making, garment, and product development for brands with similar creative and world-view ethos.Born in Taiwan, she moved to the UK at the age of 18 to pursue an education and a career in fashion. She studied at Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion with various technical qualifications in between. With 17+ years of knowledge and experience in the fashion industry, she works for a range of luxury brands including Alexander McQueen, Theory, and ClothSurgeon as well as designing for independent designers, developing garments that have sold in retailers including Net-A-Porter, Mr. Porter, Selfridges, Liberty, and Harrods. Jade launched her own and ever-evolving brand and creative platform, ATELIER WCMF, to provide bespoke creations, freelance services with limited quantities of clothing and accessories.She never stops learning and has recently begun to merge the digital and physical fashion worlds, using emerging technology to create advanced technical services for fashion brands, enhancing both the experience and sustainability for the client, as well as opening herself up to new markets in the digital world. Connect with Jade:Email at j.w@atelier-wcmf.comFollow on Instagram: @atelier.wcmf @jade_wei_sConnect on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jade-wei-atelier-wcmf/Visit her Website: www.atelier-wcmf.com 🎟️ Register for my training on April 24th: The Secret to Remote Clients and a Steady Paycheck in Fashion — now updated for 2025! Sign up  at www.sewheidi.com/live

Om Podcasten

This is a show for burnt-out fashion designers (and TDs, PDs, patternmakers and beyond) who want more flexibility while still doing work they love. As a freelance fashion designer, you can build your fashion career on your own terms. Freelancing in fashion is the only way to get freedom in your day (instead of being tied to a desk). Whether you want to earn extra money on the side, fund your fashion brand, or replace your salary, the FDGP podcast will help you get there. Listen in for actionable tips and strategies to kickstart or grow your career as a freelance fashion designer, build your confidence, and create the life you want. Hosted by $100k+ fashion freelancer Sew Heidi, the show features interviews and strategy sessions with successful freelance fashion designers from around the world who've ditched toxic fashion jobs and taken control of their own destinies. This is the only place to get REAL insights from REAL freelancers who have built REAL careers on their own terms. (Formerly the Successful Fashion Freelancer podcast.)