Fashion Design Courses

FAS250 Introduction to Practice and Process

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This course will give students the opportunity to consolidate creative and practical skills learnt in the foundation and build upon these to be fashion focused. As an introduction to the fashion design development: practice and process, the students will use drawing as a tool for recording and researching to evolve visual thinking and produce design ideas developed from a theme. They will produce a sketchbook with a strong emphasis on primary research and individual response and apply awareness of future fashion trends, relevant market forces and seasons. This studio course covers exercises and demonstrations, lectures, group critiques and self- directed study and location research.

Co-requisite: FAS251 Thematic Workshop

FAS251 Thematic Workshop I

[0–2, 1 cr.]

An invited fashion or textile designer offers this 1 credit workshop. In this workshop students consolidate and build upon working practices learned in the Introduction to Practice and Process course by producing sampling appropriate for an international fashion market. Students are introduced to fabrics for fashion through experimentation in 3D on the stand. Working with an industry specialist, students experience first—-hand how fabrications are taken to the next stage of the design process in the production of garments, accessories and concept pieces for a wide range of markets levels. This course is workshop based and independent study is a requirement.

Co-requisite: FAS250 Introduction to Practice and Process

FAS331 Fashion Design I

[1–6, 5 cr.]

Fashion Design I introduces fundamental principles for fashion designers working in a global industry. The core aims are to introduce an array of research methods and the importance this has as the foundation of the design process. To understand design development, namely working in series producing concepts that relate to one another and finally, to consider the requirements when designing for a specific market or ideal customer. Drawing methods both illustrative and technical and portfolio presentation skills are also introduced for students to communicate coherent design concepts in this comprehensive introductory course. Developing professional practice is a requirement in this and all future courses. Students learn through lectures, studio exercises, workshops and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS250 Introduction to Practice and Process, FAS251 Thematic Workshop

FAS332 Fashion Design II

[1–6, 5 cr.]

The studio explores designing for jersey and denim garments as a key aspect in producing commercially viable ranges. In a saturated market this course challenges students to uncover original research resources to ensure their designs reflect an emerging design philosophy. This studio introduces students to branding and marketing in placing collections at an appropriate market level as well as the significance of trend researching at a global level. The responsibility of ethical sourcing and production will be explored through an understanding of how the denim market has responded to the various issues in using cotton and applying finishes. Drawing methods and portfolio presentation skills are further explored and refined during this studio. Students learn through lectures, studio exercises, workshops and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS331 Fashion Design I

FAS341 Construction I

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This workshop introduces the sewing lab and a variety of industrial equipment and machinery. The ability to use machinery with confidence and accuracy is essential to success for any new fashion designer; to understand appropriate finishing and construction techniques allows design ideas to be presented to a professional standard. During the first half of the semester students are given an induction and shown how to safely use the machinery in the production of samples. Workshop exercises cover a wide variety of sampling from the basic seams, zip insertions, the considerations of working with fabrics of different weights and properties through to the production of garment prototypes that are based on creative practice in Fashion Design I and Pattern Cutting I. Health and safety procedures and the ability to use machinery with care are essential requirements of this workshop. Students learn through demonstrations, practical workshop exercises and individual guidance.

Pre-requisite: FAS250 Introduction to Practice and Process, FAS251 Thematic Workshop

Co-requisite: FAS361 Pattern Cutting I

FAS342 Construction II

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This intermediate workshop introduces the necessary skills of working with denim and stretch fabrics and the specialist machinery in the construction of such garments. Students produce samples appropriate for denim and jersey with key elements including signature pocket styles, trouser openings, collars and topstitch. Crucial to success is the ability to sew with accuracy and care when handling a diverse range of fabrics. Sampling forms an important reference archive that builds on from techniques learnt in Construction I. During the second half of the semester students produce an outfit using patterns developed from Pattern Cutting II. This workshop further introduces industry production processes including lay planning and costings and technical specification sheets. Students learn through demonstrations, practical workshop exercises and individual guidance.

Pre-requisite: FAS361 Pattern Cutting I, FAS341 Construction I

Co- requisite: FAS362 Pattern Cutting II

FAS361 Pattern Cutting I

[2–2, 4 cr.]

This studio introduces the core principles of pattern cutting at a professional industry level and its role in the design process. The requirements of pattern making include accuracy, using basic blocks and the correct way to annotate patterns as the starting point of this course. Demonstrations take the student through a series of exercises aimed at developing understanding of how pattern manipulation impacts on the silhouette and detail of a garment. The second half of the semester is spent developing individual design concepts from Fashion Design I and gives the opportunity to put into practice principles learned, including crucially how garments fit the human body. Through this process students will gain an appreciation of how interpretation from 2D ideas can achieve varied outcomes. Students learn through demonstrations, practical exercises and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS250 Introduction to Practice & Process, FAS251 Thematic Workshop

Co-requisite: FAS341 Construction I

FAS362 Pattern Cutting II

[2–2, 4 cr.]

Pattern cutting techniques taught in this intermediate studio elaborate on those in Pattern Cutting I by nurturing an ambitious approach to proportion, silhouette, detailing and volume for denim, jersey and related fabrics. During the first half of the semester students undertake a variety of cutting exercises aimed at understanding the core skills required for working with these fabrics- to understand the specific properties and the impact this has on the pattern cutting process. Classic details in denim will be explored as well as techniques appropriate for working with jersey fabrics. The second half of the semester is devoted to producing patterns that realize concepts from Design II and further develop an understanding of how garments fit the body. Students learn through demonstrations, practical exercises and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS361 Pattern Cutting I, FAS341 Construction I / Co- requisite: FAS342 Construction II

FAS371 History of Fashion I

[2–0, 2 cr.]

This course is a survey of the development of apparel and accessory design through different periods, with a particular emphasis on the modern period, beginning with industrialization. Social, cultural, economic and industrial factors are discussed along with major art movements that contributed to the development of fashion, and as precursors of contemporary fashion trends.

FAS421 Lingerie & Swimwear

[3 cr.]

FAS422 Textile Design

[3 cr.]

FAS423 Leatherwear Design

[3 cr.]

FAS424 Sportswear Design

[3 cr.]

FAS431 Fashion Design III

[1–6, 5 cr.]

This intermediate studio brings together skills from previous courses and allows students to define their own emerging style. Outerwear  is often the focus of a collection as it allows designers to both  display conceptual innovation and advancement in construction and fabrication. These pieces can be an important marketing tool and used to display the concepts of the collection through advertising campaigns and editorial shoots. Designing outerwear also introduces students to an understanding of how climate can impact on the design and merchandising of a collection or range. Students learn through lectures, studio exercises, workshops and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS332 Fashion Design II

FAS441 Fashion Illustration

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This intermediate workshop teaches students the skills and planning necessary for producing tailored garments. During the first half of  the semester students work with a standard jacket pattern in the production of a jacket toile. This includes use of interlinings, developing different pocket types through to shoulder pads, buttonholes and correct methods for pressing and finishing. These skills consolidate previous Construction workshops and underpin the standards required for the final major project. The second half to the semester is spent realizing garments from Design III and Pattern Cutting III. Students learn through demonstrations, practical workshop exercises and individual tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS362 Pattern Cutting II, FAS342 Construction II

Co- requisite: FAS461 Pattern Cutting III

FAS461 Final Project Seminar

[2–2, 4 cr.]

This intermediate studio introduces the core principles and practices required in the cutting and production of soft tailoring and outerwear. This course takes the student through the essential stages required in the production of structured and unstructured outerwear garments paying particular attention to the impact of fabric choices on the cutting process. During the first half of the semester students learn about the importance of balance and fit as well as developing skills centered on understanding collars, two- piece sleeves and linings. The second half of the studio is spent realizing patterns for the production of garments selected from Design III, of which one piece will be outerwear. Students learn through demonstrations, practical exercises and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS362 Pattern Cutting II, FAS342 Construction II

Co- requisite: FAS441 Construction III

FAS481 Fashion Apprenticeship

[2 cr.]

FAS521 Fashion Entrepreneurship I

[2–0, 2 cr.]

The many aspects of successfully running a fashion business are broken down into key areas where students discover that design talent is just a small part of running a successful business. For many graduates, setting up their own business is a dream and this course enables the preparation for that to happen by equipping students with essential entrepreneurial skills. From legal structures through to the day to day running of a business, students learn the organizational skills necessary for success. Students learn through lectures, seminars and group tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS421 Fashion Internship 

FAS522 Fashion Entrepreneurship II

[2–0, 2 cr.]

Following on from Fashion Entrepreneurship I, this intensive course takes students through the steps necessary to plan and write a viable business proposal. By working through each stage of the plan, students hone their professional organizational and writing skills through learning the processes required in establishing a business. These skills prove invaluable for anyone working as a freelance designer through to those wishing to establish a business upon graduation or in the future. Students are taught through lectures, seminars and tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS521 Fashion Entrepreneurship I

Co-requisite: FAS532 Fashion Collection II, FAS523 Fashion Entrepreneurship III

FAS523 Fashion Entrepreneurship III

[1 cr.]

Fashion Entrepreneurship III is an industry based workshop and completes this advanced series by linking students with artisans and ateliers in the production of final collection pieces and beyond. This platform is an invaluable resource in knowing what is available and how to access the people who can manufacture accessories, garments and shoes for individual pieces or larger runs. Students learn through lectures, tutorials and industry visits.

Pre-requisite: FAS521 Fashion Entrepreneurship I

Co-requisite: FAS532 Fashion Collection II, FAS522 Fashion Entrepreneurship II

FAS531 Fashion Design V

[1–6, 5 cr.]

Fashion Collection I is an advanced studio that sees students research and develop a collection that wholly centers on individual design philosophy. During this intensive semester, students negotiate a directional theme from which a wide range of creative research and design methods are employed in generating ideas that are highly creative and commercially viable. With a deeper understanding of fabric manipulation, pattern cutting and construction, students are able to visualize how garments will look when realized and thus produce work that demonstrates refinement and finesse. It is in this studio that the basis of the collection is set and all work including portfolio, presentation boards and marketing are subject to further critical analysis and change in Fashion Collection II. Students learn through intensive individual tutorials and jury presentations.

Pre-requisite: FAS421 Fashion Internship

FAS532 Fashion Design VI

[1–6, 5 cr.]

This advanced course directly relates to Fashion Collection I in the completion of a portfolio and fashion collection. This multi- disciplinary studio incorporates, design, pattern cutting, construction and accessory design whilst ensuring that the proposed collection retains the core values as set out during Fashion Collection I. Work undertaken is expected to further define individual students’ approach to fashion whilst adapting to new working methods in the pursuit of a collection that remains fresh to the eye. Focus and organizational skills are central to this intensive course in coordinating and producing a collection that typifies how the student wishes to be seen in a global fashion economy. At the completion of the course, students present their fully styled final collection, resolved portfolio with promotional strategy to a jury of academics and industry professionals in a formal setting. Students learn through intensive individual tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS531 Fashion Collection I

Co-requisite: FAS522 Fashion Entrepreneurship II, FAS523 Fashion Entrepreneurship III

FAS541 Construction IV

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This final advanced Construction workshop sees students explore and resolve manufacturing issues for their final collection by testing techniques and processes learned throughout the program. It is here that students have the opportunity to experiment and push the boundaries of accepted norms of how garments may be perceived. The production of a final collection requires skill, planning and finesse at every stage to ensure professional standards remain paramount with self-directed study and planning being central to this. This workshop sees students produce a series of garment prototypes for the express purpose of understanding how a collection might function when realized in the actual fabrics. Students learn through individual technical guidance.

Pre-requisite: FAS441 Construction III, FAS461 Pattern Cutting III

Co-requisite: FAS561 Pattern Cutting IV

FAS551 Thematic Workshop II

[1 cr.]

This is an advanced level workshop that provides students with specialized skills and techniques in the production of their portfolio, garments or brand. The theme of this workshop will vary and is determined by fashion mainstream trends and market demands.

Co-requisite: FAS531 Fashion Collection I

FAS561 Fashion Business

[2–2, 4 cr.]

During this final advanced Pattern Cutting course, students have the opportunity to test their techniques and skills in the production of key silhouettes for their final collection. This is the last time students have access to a pattern cutter and it is expected they will push the boundaries of this discipline in the pursuit of excellence. At this  point there are no longer demonstrations and exercises, but rather students are expected to work on their self-directed study program. The ability to produce industry accurate patterns that demonstrate finesse is essential to success as are the organizational skills required for producing an array of complex patterns for a collection. Students learn through individual tutorials.

Pre-requisite: FAS461 Pattern Cutting III / Co-requisite: FAS541 Construction IV

FAS581 Internship

[2–2, 3 cr.]

The fashion internship is an invaluable introduction to understanding how a business functions. As an intern you will have the opportunity to learn first-hand how the design process is part of a larger picture working to strict deadlines and commercial realities. Students have the opportunity to work in Lebanon or further afield after being matched with an appropriate company or design house where possible. The expectation is for students to become immersed in the working practices of the company for up to two semesters and to use this knowledge during the final year in the development of a fashion collection. The Fashion Internship is directly related to Fashion Entrepreneurship I, II and III.

Pre-requisite: FAS431 Fashion Design III