Many people use the words tailor and fashion designer interchangeably. But are they really the same?
If you’ve ever wondered:
- What is the difference between a tailor and a fashion designer?
- Can a tailor call themselves a fashion designer?
- Does a fashion designer need to know how to sew?
Let’s break it down clearly.
As an African-inspired fashion designer based in Lagos, Nigeria, with over 10 years of experience, I’ve seen this confusion happen often.
What Is a Tailor?
A tailor primarily works with measurements and sewing.
When someone brings a style to be made, a tailor:
- Takes accurate body measurements
- Drafts patterns
- Interprets pattern pieces
- Cuts and sews fabric
- Follows instructions precisely
For example, if you show a sleeve pattern to a tailor, they immediately understand how it connects to the garment.
That is technical skill — and there is absolutely nothing wrong with being a tailor.
What Is a Fashion Designer?
A fashion designer focuses on creation, concept, and vision.
A fashion designer:
- Understands fashion trends
- Studies color combinations
- Chooses the right fabric
- Creates original sketches
- Communicates designs clearly
For example, a designer may create a bold asymmetric piece like our
Asymmetric One-Shoulder Black and Neon Dress
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product/asymmetric-one-shoulder-black-and-neon-dress/
This type of design requires creativity before sewing even begins.
Fabric Knowledge: Especially Ankara Fabrics
A major difference between a tailor and a fashion designer is fabric knowledge.
Not all fabrics work for every design.
For example:
- Structured shirt dresses require firm fabric.
- Flowing silhouettes require softer textures.
If you work with Ankara fabrics, you must understand:
- Which prints suit structured styles
- Which cuts highlight bold patterns
- How color placement affects the final look
Our
Vibrant Multi Ankara Shirt Dress
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product/vibrant-multi-ankara-shirt-dress/
is an example of how African print fabric can be transformed into a modern ready-to-wear style.
Similarly, pieces like the
Eleganza Multicolored Floral Midi Dress
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product/eleganza-multicolored-floral-midi-dress/
show how fabric and design must work together.
A fashion designer must understand that Ankara will not suit every silhouette.
Can One Person Be Both?
Yes.
Some professionals:
- Design
- Draft patterns
- Sew
- Manage production
But many specialize in one role.
Both are important in building a strong ready-to-wear fashion brand.
At Daisy’s Wardrobe, we combine creative design, technical tailoring, and premium Ankara fabric knowledge to produce stylish pieces.
You can explore our full
Ready-to-Wear Dresses Collection
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product-category/dresses/
Or browse modern silhouettes under
Jumpsuits Collection
https://daisyswardrobe.com/product-category/jumpsuit/
Each piece reflects both creative direction and skilled execution.
Final Thoughts
The difference between a tailor and a fashion designer is not about status.
It is about responsibility.
A tailor executes.
A fashion designer creates and directs.
And when both work together, fashion excellence happens.
If you are building your fashion career or shopping for thoughtfully designed ready-to-wear pieces made with premium Ankara fabrics, understanding this difference helps you appreciate the craft behind every garment and you can check our highly engaged youtube video for the full Video
