Adobe Illustrator

While not built exclusively for the apparel industry, Adobe Illustrator is arguably the most widely used design software in the fashion world. Before a 3D simulation can be run or a 2D pattern can be cut, a designer has to sketch the concept. Illustrator is the absolute standard for creating the "flat sketches" that make up a Tech Pack. A flat sketch is a mathematically precise vector drawing of a garment lying perfectly flat, showing every single seam line, zipper placement, and pocket measurement. Factories require these precise vector drawings to understand the designer's intent. Illustrator's pen tool and shape builders make it incredibly easy to draw these rigid, technical flats rapidly. Fashion designers also rely heavily on Illustrator for textile and print design. Because it operates in vector math rather than pixels, a designer can create a complex floral repeating pattern in Illustrator, and the factory can blow that pattern up to cover a massive yard of fabric without any pixelation or loss of quality. It is a mandatory skill on the resume of any modern apparel designer.