Book excerpt: Many new or young designers dream of having their own label, but most may not know how to make their dreams a reality and become successful in a competitive marketplace. In her practical guidebook, an experienced fashion designer and entrepreneur provides insight on how to break into the fashion industry, overcome obstacles, create a business, market a brand, and launch a fashion show. Nila Palacios, owner of Nila Palacios Latin Fashion, begins with introspective questions directed at aspiring fashion designers to help identify strengths, weaknesses, a motto, and specific goals. While encouraging designers to stay true to their individuality, passions, and objectives, Palacios provides step-by-step guidance that teaches specifically how to: • Find inspiration and bring it to life through designs; • Look for trends and colors and incorporate them into a collection; • Design sketches, make a pattern, and select and cut fabrics; • Match fabrics with specific styles; • Conduct market research, identify a target market, and find a niche; and • Compile a collection, market a product, choose models, and organize a show. Fashion with Passion provides clear, focused guidance for anyone interested in breaking into the fashion industry and achieving their dreams.