Course summary

Today’s fashion designers are catalysts of creativity, forming new trends, responding to consumer demands, industry developments and new technology, from initial design right through to the finished garment. Nurturing original style, this three year full time course trains highly skilled designers for the engaging fashion industry. Participants learn how to create collections from an accurate analysis of the market, the trends, materials and fabrics, as well as translating ideas and inspiration derived from any form, concept, or art, or simply from their own experiences, successfully combining a personal vision with industry needs, or brand design strategies. The Fashion Design course moves through key aspects of illustration and graphic design techniques including the study of form, colour, pattern drafting and draping, and an accurate analysis of clothing manufacturing through deconstruction. With a solid base in the fashion system participants are introduced to many aspects of the industry, not only in the principles of fashion business, brand identity, positioning and marketing, but also interpreting art and craft in fashion, production, retail, consumer habits, and trends. Research approaches to creative and original product development are key throughout. Participants of the Fashion Design course are encouraged to experiment with new approaches in the industry that are evolving today, including renewable and sustainable resources, innovative materials and new technologies, building an individual style and nurturing creative and professional abilities. Studies heritage design and fashion culture provide the necessary skills to make a critical assessment of a brand’s or client’s lifestyle and legacy, while communication skills provide a professional approach in the negotiation and presentation of ideas to companies and new clients, accompanied by a professional portfolio of work. By the third year participants work as independent practitioners, and with the constant support of a faculty team of industry experts, are encouraged to participate in international fashion talent competitions during in the course. A professionally produced fashion show and graduation showcase event introduces collections or portfolios to a selected audience of leading fashion experts, journalists, bloggers, designers and head-hunters – a unique experience opening up industry networking and career opportunities. This fashion course forms the base of all three year fashion design study pathways. With fashion design as the core subject, participants select from different pathways to specialise in a chosen area of interest, responding to individual creative flair and passion. This course is also available as a BA (Hons) four year course (including placement sandwich year)* **