Fashion Design Courses

FAS236 Body in Fashion

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio is a combination of theoretical lectures on the various manifestations of the human body throughout the contemporary period, as well as applied exercises that investigate the perception and representation of the human body and its cultural dimension. The studio will focus on developing students’ skills in representing the anatomical aspects of the human subject in two- and three- dimensional studies, while continuing the creative investigation of translating ideas into forms, and specifically forms that apply to the human body in its movement through space. Basic concepts such as proportion, materiality, texture, fabric and color will be explored in the process of devising specific outfits in response to conceptual ideas.

Co-Requisite: FND237 Visual Dynamics

FAS251 Digital Media

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio course is composed of two parts, starting with a basic exposure to computer platforms and the primary software used in computer graphics application. The first part addresses the basics of generating and manipulating images using digital media, and covers monochrome patterns, control and mix of colors, raster images, scanning, pixel and vector graphics. The second part introduces the basic concepts of four-dimensional design, in which properties of time and movement are explored. A range of time-based media are addressed from computer-driven technologies and digital photography to interactive media. A workshop on video editing and post production is offered as integral part of this studio.

Prerequisite: FND236A Design Studio II - Visual Dynamics, FND236B Design Studio II - Formal Tectonics, or FND236C Design Studio II - Anatomy and Space

Co-requisite: FAS250 Introduction to Practice and Process

FAS335 Fashion Design I

[2–4, 4 cr.]

This studio offers an introduction to the fundamentals of fashion design, encompassing essential design techniques and the rudiments of apparel construction. The course prioritizes primary research and the process of transforming design concepts into tangible forms. Focusing on the white poplin shirt as a classical garment archetype, the course introduces students to the bodice block, which serves as the foundation for other archetypes such as the skirt and dress. Sustainability and Zero-Waste cutting techniques are explored in-depth along the semester, which students then develop and apply in their final output. Emphasis is also placed on the development of design ideas that can be transformed into a complete final look, supported by a consistent portfolio of work that includes a consistent lineup of 3 full looks.

Pre-Requisite: FND237 or FAS236
Co-Requisites: FAS345 & FAS365

FAS336 Fashion Design II

[2–4, 4 cr.]

This intermediate studio provides fashion students with a comprehensive understanding of Utilitarian Wear, enabling them to expand their knowledge base by exploring both woven (twills) and knitted (jersey) fabrics. The technical aspects of Utilitarian Wear will be the initial focus, followed by students interpreting their research into a fashion collection with a focus on Casualwear/Streetwear. The studio also emphasizes in-depth textile research encouraging a fashion-forward use of technical materials such as twills, synthetics, Lycra, and Techtex. Additionally, the course introduces students to the importance of art direction and photography in creating look books and fashion campaigns. Emphasis is also placed on the development of design ideas that can be transformed into a complete final look, supported by a portfolio of work that includes a consistent lineup of 6 illustrated full looks and two executed looks.

Pre-Requisite: FAS335
Co-Requisites: FAS346 & FAS366

FAS345 Construction I

[1–2, 2 cr.]

In this course, students will be introduced to fundamental sewing and finishing techniques along with the usage of industrial sewing machines and equipment in the sewing lab. A major focus of the course is on promoting health and safety procedures within the lab. The curriculum covers various topics, including machine sewing, pattern layout for cutting, and creating technical sheets for construction processes. Practical exercises involve practicing different types of seams, such as plain, lapped, flat felled, French, bound, and faced, along with learning how to insert zippers (both plain and invisible). Students will also learn how to install a shirt collar and basic sleeve to create simple garment prototypes.

Pre-Requisite: FAS236
Co-Requisite: FAS335 & FAS365

FAS346 Construction II

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This intermediate course provides instruction on the use of specialized sewing machines and techniques suitable for working with Utilitarian wear specialty fabrics such as knitwear, jersey, twill/denim, and synthetics. The course places particular emphasis on the construction details of jersey and denim, including signature pocket styles, pants fly guard, topstitching, and jacket yoke and pockets, as well as more advanced technical sheets. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to visit local specialized factories to observe the production process of Utilitarian wear garments.

Pre-Requisites: FAS345
Co-Requisite: FAS336 & FAS366

FAS351 CAD for Fashion

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio course is an introduction to computer-aided manufacturing software used for pattern making of fashion garments. The course introduces digital technical pattern development – moving from manual pattern drafting to digital pattern drafting suitable for industry practices: pattern development, grading, layout for cutting. Students are expected to prepare digital flat patterns for garment construction and their layout. Field trip to local factories using similar software to observe the digital pattern making production process. Students need to have sufficient pattern making knowledge to be able to apply the corresponding functions.

Co-Requisites: FAS445 & FAS465

FAS365 Pattern Cutting I

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio course will equip students with the fundamental tools of technical design that enable the realization of design concepts in 3D fabric prototypes. The course emphasizes the core principles of patternmaking, such as measurements, body blocks, dart manipulation, pattern drafting, and fabric properties. Through demonstrations and exercises, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of how patternmaking and manipulation techniques affect the silhouette and details of a garment. Students will be called to draft the bodice and skirt blocks based on a design they will  proposed, while also learning beginner draping techniques ( Moulage ). The course focuses on the shirt as an essential garment archetype, introduces various skirt and dress styles.

Pre-Requisite: FAS236
Co-Requisite: FAS335 & FAS345

FAS366 Pattern Cutting II

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This intermediate studio aims to expand on the fundamental components and techniques of technical design covered in Pattern Cutting I by deepening students’ understanding of proportion, silhouette, detailing, and specialized techniques in Pattern Cutting specifically for Utilitarian wear. The course will place particular emphasis on woven and knitted fabrics. The course engages students in various Cutting exercises aimed at developing the skills necessary for working with specialty fabrics and details commonly used in Utilitarian wear and Active wear, such as twills, technical textiles, jersey/stretch materials, and synthetic fabrics. The course will focus on the development of new blocks, specifically the over garment and flat blocks, used in the creation of Utilitarian wear. In addition, new Moulage techniques will be introduced.

Pre-Requisite: FAS365
Co-Requisite: FAS336 & FAS346

FAS371 History of Fashion

[2–0, 3 cr.]

This course provides an overview of the evolution of apparel and accessory design across various periods, with a particular focus on the Modern era, beginning with industrialization. The course explores the social, cultural, economic, and industrial factors that influenced Fashion, as well as major art movements that contributed to its development and as precursors of contemporary fashion trends.

Pre-Requisites: ENG102 Academic English II & FND281 Design Culture

FAS372 Fashion Studies

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This seminar-type course engages students in the multidisciplinary field of Fashion Studies that accompanied the expansion of the Fashion industry globally. The course explores the theoretical aspects of Fashion design in relation to culture and society, taking into account emerging issues of relevance that affect design. Through theoretical lectures and readings of key texts by art historians, cultural and social critics, students learn to critically examine reflections on Fashion design. The course focuses on material culture with visual artifacts as reflective of personal, social and political contexts of interpretation. Students develop the analytical and rhetorical writing and presentation skills necessary for conducting meaningful research, and defining a design philosophy and visual identity that reflects their individual interests.

Pre-Requisite: ENG102 & FAS371

Note: This course has not been taught since Fall 2022 and will not be taught in the academic year 2024–2025.

FAS380 Topics in Fashion Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This series of courses focuses on emerging and critical topics not typically covered within the standard Fashion Design curriculum. Each course will explore current issues and trends that are shaping the fashion industry today, providing students with a comprehensive understanding and hands-on experience in these areas. Themes will be selected based on their relevance and impact on the fashion world, ensuring that students gain valuable insights into cutting-edge practices and emerging challenges. Each course in this series will be assigned a specific subtitle that reflects its focus, and it will be listed in the course offerings accordingly.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS381 Fashion Illustration

[1–3, 3 cr.]

This course develops the art of communicating fashion ideas in a visual form through specific illustration techniques. Students will develop their self-expression through croquis drawing of the human figure, posture as well as the study of real and distorted proportions of body features. Assignments consist of using multiple media and drawing techniques, representing apparel design details and illustrating textile movement.  The course focuses on Flat Drawing and Rendering Techniques to develop design capacities and accurately represent the intricate garment details essential for technical Spec-Sheets. After the midterm, students explore various approaches to Silhouette Conception, Silhouette Distortion and Color Application aiming at developing individual styles of expression and representation of the clothed human figure.

Pre-requisite: FND236 Studio II Formal Tectonics

FAS382 Contour Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

The main focus of this course is on equipping students with the skills necessary for designing and creating women’s lingerie and corsets. The course will involve a thorough examination of the fundamental construction methods and industry-specific materials related to lingerie and corsetry. Throughout the course, students will delve into everything from design research to fabrication, with a particular emphasis on technical endeavors that scrutinize the techniques and materials employed in the production of corsets, cinchers, and bras. The course will also cover specialized pattern drafting skills, construction methods, and specific materials such as boning, busks, grommets, underwire, fusing, and quilting. While this course is highly technical, the projects will still take into account cultural norms and contexts, as well as historical references. Students will document their work in a technical portfolio that reflects a contemporary approach to corsetry in accordance with current market trends.

Pre-requisite: FAS336

FAS384 Fashion Image

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course is designed to elevate students’ competencies in art direction, production, and styling within the realm of fashion imagery. Lectures delve into the profound impact of visual storytelling in the fashion industry and investigate the evolving role of art directors. Encompassing all facets of fashion photography, the course entails the development of concepts, storyboarding, strategic planning of commercial fashion campaigns, orchestrating hair and makeup, set design, model casting and selection, and photography. Students will cultivate their ability to conceptualize specific projects and subsequently take the lead in art directing, producing, and styling fashion photoshoots and videos. As a complementary aspect, the course involves the application of custom typography and layouts to augment the visual storytelling process.

Prerequisite: FAS336

FAS385 Textile Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This studio course is designed to provide a comprehensive study of textile science, with a focus on woven and knitted fabrics used in apparel, both historically and in contemporary contexts. Students will explore the design and production techniques of protein fibers, cellulose fibers, and synthetic fibers, as well as their interaction with various coloring agents such as dyes, pigments, muds, and ochre. They will learn how to identify fiber and fabric properties and evaluate their performance. The course covers the yarn system, weaving and knitting, and surface design techniques such as brushing, printing, painting, felting, and dyeing, which will be examined as sources for creative applications in textile design. In the final project, students will produce a portfolio documenting the methodology explored and techniques used, showcasing their experimental, structural, and textural outputs in textile design and production.

Pre-Requisite: FND236 Studio II Formal Tectonics or FND237 Studio II Visual Dynamics

FAS385 Textile Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This twofold studio course combines a comprehensive historical and contemporary survey of woven and knitted fabrics used in apparel with a study of textile science, covering the design and production techniques of protein fibers, cellulose fibers and synthetic fibers and their interaction with finishes such as dyes, pigments, muds and ochre. Students learn to identify fiber and fabric properties and to evaluate their performance. The yarn system, weaving and knitting as well as finishes - printed, painted, felted, dyed or woven patterns are investigated as sources for creative applications in fashion design. Students submit a research paper that analyses the methodology explored and techniques used in their projects, demonstrating the developmental phases of various experimental structural and textural outputs in the design and production of a textile piece.

Pre-Requisite: FND236 or FND237

FAS435 Fashion Design III

[2–4, 4 cr.]

In this advanced design studio, students will expand upon the proficiencies acquired in previous studios and courses by conducting historical research and developing their unique design philosophy in the realm of Formalwear. The course requires students to focus on a particular era of Formalwear and reinterpret it into a contemporary tailored wardrobe that incorporates classical tailoring techniques and modern references. The studio emphasizes the importance of “bespoke” in tailoring and specifically emphasizes classical menswear construction techniques. Students will explore a range of tailoring textiles such as wool, mohair, cashmere, silk, linen, and cotton while also considering textile innovation to encourage creative use of traditional materials. Emphasis is also placed on the development of design ideas that can be transformed into a complete final look, supported by a portfolio of work that includes a consistent lineup of 12 illustrated full looks and two executed looks.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336
Co-Requisite: FAS445- FAS465

FAS445 Construction III

[1–2, 2 cr.]

This advanced course equips students with the essential skills needed to create bespoke garments. The first part of the term focuses on constructing a half-tailored jacket, with a special emphasis on the internal structure - including interfacing, interlining, and sleeve head roll. The course also covers various pocket styles, two-piece sleeve installation, collar and lapel techniques, lining, and appropriate pressing and finishing methods for Tailoring. In the second part of the term, students will produce a complete tailored garment.

Pre-Requisites: FAS346
Co-Requisite: FAS435 & FAS465

FAS465 Pattern Cutting III

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This advanced course places an emphasis on traditional tailoring techniques specifically within the realm of Men’s wear. Students will enhance their technical skills in cutting and producing the classic Tailored Suit, with a particular focus on the impact of fabric selection on the cutting process and the intricate internal structure of a tailored jacket. In the first half of the semester, students will explore the significance of balance and fit, and learn specific techniques in designing revers, lapels, two-piece sleeves, linings, and interlinings. Additionally, the course will delve into the made-to-measure techniques used in bespoke tailoring.

Pre-requisite: FAS366
Co-Requisite: FAS435 & FAS445

FAS482 Leatherwear and Accessory Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course explores and builds upon the rich heritage of leather production and craftsmanship prevalent locally, promoting individual interests through research, concept development and design. The studio covers the design of leather and plastic wearables and accessories incorporating advanced levels of design research [markets, suppliers, construction methods, manufacture] and the development of various leather products from concept to execution. Submissions expand from original concept through to patternmaking and fabrication of the finished accessory prototypes. Students work with an industry specialist whenever feasible, whilst learning through demonstrations, practical workshop exercises and individual tutorials.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS484 Digital Fashion Fabrication

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course explores the theoretical and practical notions of Materiality, Fabric and the Art of Form drawing upon digital fabrication technologies used in the realm of fashion design and production. It aims to provide students with the skills and knowledge to integrate cutting-edge digital tools into the creative process. Covering a spectrum from 3D modeling to computer-aided design (CAD) and merging digital prototyping with traditional craftsmanship, students will acquire practical experience in utilizing technology to elevate the conceptualization, design, and production of wearable fashion garments and accessories, all realized in a 1:1 Scale.

Prerequisite: FND251, FAS381, and FAS335

FAS485A International Workshop A

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This is a variable theme workshop, in which students are exposed to a specialized fashion designer, focusing on the production of apparel in one of the following options: Shoe Design, Accessory Design, Millinery Design, Bridal Wear Design, or Sportswear design.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS485B International Workshop B

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This is a variable theme workshop, in which students are exposed to an international designer, focusing on new ideas in fashion design, such as sustainable design, new fabrics and textiles, etc. The Workshop will be conducted on campus or at an off-campus location, culminating with a small show of the designed collections.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS486 International Fashion Studio

[3–6, 6 cr.]

The International Fashion Studio is an intensive design studio offered during the summer term. The studio will be offered by an international designer at LAU, or conducted abroad at an International school of fashion. The purpose of this studio is to broaden the students’ perspective on design trends globally, and to expose them to new design thinking in the realm of fashion.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS487 International Studio

[3 cr.]

The International Studio offers a cross-cultural, immersive educational experience designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fashion industry through worldwide exploration. The dynamic studio format is structured around a series of curated travel excursions to global fashion epicenters and cultural hubs. Students are encouraged to engage in diverse workshops and collaborate with local artisans and designers, expanding their industry knowledge and gaining insights into the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the landscape of fashion design.

Prerequisite: FAS336

FAS488 Jewelry Design

[2–2, 3 cr.]

This course offers an in-depth exploration of contemporary jewelry design as an art form and expressive medium. The course explores the experimental aspect of jewelry design as a statement tool. Students will be guided through the process of creating experimental jewelry using contemporary techniques and a diverse range of materials. The course emphasizes the creative potential of non-traditional materials, such as resin, acrylic, fabric, and found objects, challenging conventional notions of preciousness in jewelry. Through hands-on projects and critical discussions, the course aims to equip students with the technical skills, design principles, and conceptual frameworks needed to engage in contemporary jewelry practice and explore new avenues of creative expression.

Prerequisite: FAS336

FAS489 Digital Fashion Illustration

[1–4, 3 cr.]

This course consists of two parts that leverage the skills developed in FAS 381 Fashion Illustration, by introducing students to the realm of digital visual representation. In the first part, students will focus on refining their silhouettes by enhancing their skills in 2D digital sketching and illustration using industry-specific software. The second part of the course focuses on 3D digital garment creation, which is increasingly becoming a crucial skill for patternmakers and fashion designers. With the fashion industry’s rising demand for improved productivity and reduced environmental impact, software knowledge for the creation of Fashion is now a highly-coveted asset.

Prerequisite: FAS381

FAS491 Fashion Entrepreneurship

[3–0, 3 cr.]

This course provides a platform for equipping students with essential entrepreneurial and marketing skills, from market research to product pricing and projections. The course includes a survey of different contemporary practices and business models in fashion entrepreneurship and marketing, including market research on the Ready to Wear sector. The various aspects of running a successful fashion practice are broken down into key components, allowing students a thorough and comprehensive exposure to the business aspects of the profession. 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.

Pre-Requisite: FAS336

FAS492 Fashion Internship

[0–250, 9 cr.]

This course requires students to complete a minimum of 18 weeks of internship at a fashion design house or fashion related industry, in order to supplement their design knowledge with hands-on practical training covering the full process of the creation and production of a seasonal collection. The internship experience provides an opportunity for an immersion in the real world of practice, exposing students to the design process in its totality, from conception to realization, under strict deadlines and commercial constraints. Students are given the option to work in local or international studios. The internship covers a full term, and may extend to the summer term as well, giving students the possibility to further develop their practical and professional skills.

Pre-Requisite: FAS435

FAS534 Fashion Collection Research

[2–0, 2 cr.]

The primary objective of the course is to guide upcoming senior students in initiating the thought process for their runway Fashion Collection. Through this research module, students will refine their communication skills and be able to express their Collection’s theoretical framework from both a conceptual and business perspective. The course concludes with writing a Design Manifesto, which establishes a clear design philosophy and aesthetic and serves as the foundation for the design concept that will be further explored and realized in Fashion Collection I and II.

Pre-requisites: FAS435 & FAS372

FAS535 Fashion Collection I

[2–4, 4 cr.]

This studio marks a significant milestone in the preparation of senior students’ final collection. In this studio, students delve into a directional theme while developing their individual design aesthetic. The studio focuses on fabric manipulation, pattern cutting, and construction techniques, that enable students to initiate the development of their collection. The final outcome should showcase their mastery in creating a comprehensive Fashion Collection that represents their years of study. After completing this studio, each student’s individual Collection will be ready for final development in FAS 536 Fashion Collection II.

Pre-Requisite: FAS435
Co-Requisite: FAS545

FAS536 Fashion Collection II

[2–4, 4 cr.]

This studio is the pinnacle of the Fashion Design curriculum, building on the research and schematic designs developed in Fashion Collection I. Alongside the creative aspect of Fashion Design ideation and execution, the capstone studio emphasizes the development of students’ organizational and project management skills, preparing them to coordinate and produce a collection that exemplifies their work in a Fashion marketplace. Students will be evaluated based on their design ideas, technical abilities, and presentation of an advanced lineup of eight looks, as well as their submission of an individual portfolio based on fashion imagery. The final collection will be reviewed by both academic and industry professionals, and showcased at the School’s graduation Fashion Show.

Pre-Requisite: FAS535
Co-Requisite: FAS546

FAS545 Fashion Collection Execution I

[1–4, 3 cr.]

This course combines the construction and patternmaking, in support to the Fashion Collection I studio, focusing on resolving manufacturing tasks by testing various methods and processes acquired throughout the curriculum. This course also provides the opportunity to experiment with new techniques in the process of producing the final collection, through a series of en toile garment prototypes.

Pre-Requisite: FAS445
Co-Requisite: FAS535

FAS546 Fashion Collection Execution II

[1–4, 3 cr.]

The last technical course in the sequence combines construction and patternmaking in support of the Fashion Collection II final studio, foreseeing the implementation with real materials of all the en toile garment prototypes developed in the Fashion Collection I Execution course. This course will provide students with the opportunity to test their techniques and skills in the production of key silhouettes for their senior collection. At this point students work independently and demonstrate their ability to produce accurate works that exhibit the requisite finesse and resolution that is expected in the industry.

Pre-Requisite: FAS545
​Co-Requisite: FAS536

FAS591 Fashion Portfolio

[0–1, 1 cr.]

This course will cover the basics of developing a professional portfolio, featuring the final collection. The studio provides students with specialized skills and techniques in the production of a Look-Book to present their final collection garments and brand. The course will serve as a platform for the elaboration of the fashion show, in real life and as a digital event, preparing students to showcase their work with a promotional strategy, and in a personalized effective manner.

Co-Requisite: FAS536

FAS593 Fashion Show

[3–0, 3 cr.]

In preparation for the final capstone studio Runway Show, this course offers a comprehensive exploration of the intricate world of Runway Production and presentations. From conceptualization to execution, students will delve into the art of crafting narratives, theme development, choreography, model selection, hair and makeup design, set creation, and music curation. Interactive lectures will allow them to refine their presentation skills, learn backstage management, crisis mitigation, and media interaction. This course equips students with the tools and professionalism needed to orchestrate runway events that reflect their creative visions and elevate the impact of their collections.

Co-Requisite: FAS536