Book excerpt: The Fashion Design Manual is a comprehensive introduction to the world of fashion. It introduces the reader to the cycles and trends of fashion, the principles and practice of fashion design, the range of techniques and skills required to be successful in the industry, and the economic reality of the world of retail fashion. The Fashion Design Manual follows the path a garment takes from sketch to sample, through production and finally via the retail outlet to the wearer. The book is very generously illustrated with drawings, sketches, and photographs throughout.