You all know I’ve been sewing for a while. If you’re new here, I’ve written several posts in my journal about the garments I’ve made. Lately, I’ve been thinking about what “more” might look like. I want to learn more about fashion—and I’m beginning to see a path forward.

At first, I thought, “Go get a PhD.” But PhDs are expensive, time-consuming, and specialized—and, honestly, that felt too directive at this point. Still, the intention and passion were right. But I wanted to follow my interests wherever they led, whether broad or narrow. So instead of getting a PhD, I decided to give myself one.

Then we went on a European vacation to Paris, Antwerp, and Amsterdam. I asked ChatGPT, “What can I do while on this trip to further my skills?” It reviewed my portfolio, assessed my sewing level as intermediate and good enough for now, and gave me a nudge: move from an intermediate sewer who follows other people’s patterns toward becoming a clothing designer.

With ChatGPT’s help and some searching of my own, I found several opportunities to grow. In Paris, I took a private draping lesson from a fashion designer with her own label. In Antwerp, I helped a fashion museum create patterns from garments in its collection. In Amsterdam, I attended a denim industry event. In the next series of posts, I’ll be sharing what I am learning as I continue along my (long) path toward becoming a designer—and giving myself a PhD in fashion. If you want to follow along, subscribe below.