Tara Ansari
GARMENT TECHNOLOGIST
Software and Technology
Retraining in the late 90’s I finished fashion college with a collection at Graduate fashion week. I moved directly to London after graduation. My first position was as a Production assistant until I stumbled across the role of Garment Technology whilst being interviewed for an admin job at a fashion house. The role description fitted. It had pattern cutting and all products, true knit, woven, jersey, accessories, and some science. In 20 years as a Technologist, I’ve worked in supply and retail HO, doing Kidswear, Womenswear mainly. I’m currently at River Island, specializing in Swimwear, also working on loungewear and sun shop and I recruit and manage the women's fit models.
AM
Arriving at the office I check my emails and reply. Often, I need the sample so interact with the teams to find the sample. I usually eat my breakfast too.
The days vary depending on meetings but 2 x a week I run my product fit session, there is a live model, the Buyer, and Designer in the session. The garments are put on and discussed and notes are taken.
After the session, I update the fit comments and check the samples for any issues. Comments include, fit, construction, testing requirements, and safety. Comments are then emailed to the supplier.
I check testing submissions online and comment as required if complete I approve the shipment. Failures are discussed with the teams before a discussion is made, commercially acceptable or even a cancellation
PM
Lunch, I bring my own but there’s a great cafeteria inhouse.
I resume comments and recheck emails.
Things can change quickly in a day if the product arrives with faults or there is a customer complaint.
Both have to be dealt with asap.
- Make design comments, Do you like it? Would you wear it? Would you buy it for someone else?
- Highlight any difficulties the factories may have manufacturing the product and advise another method to achieve the desired result. Never say it can’t be done.
- Plan your day but be prepared to address issues as they arise.
MY WORK
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