Fashion Design

The Fashion Design Department teaches students to design, research and construct both couture and ready-to-wear garments. Students are encouraged to explore their individual interests and to develop their own style as they master illustration, design, pattern drafting and mass-production techniques. Students also gain exposure to the design of theatrical costumes and digital textiles.

Traditional methods of foundation and shape are developed for couture and bespoke clothing. Trend forecasting and fabric innovations are explored for ready-to-wear line production. Computer knowledge in industry software Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator along with Gerber CAD are incorporated into the curriculum.

Program faculty teach time-honored design methods along with cutting edge computer design technology as students complete ensembles in a variety of apparel categories while considering issues of marketability, cost, care and comfort.

For the degree project undertaken during the senior year, students create a signature line or collection, drawing upon independent research and their individual aesthetic. Students have participated in Council of Fashion Designers of America competitions and team projects with the Italian Trade Commission, Chadwick’s and Karmaloop.

Fashion design students obtain internships and positions - from designing to manufacturing and product development; theater costuming and retail merchandising - with Michael Kors, Rag and Bone, DKNY, Karl Lagerfeld, Anna Sui, Boston Ballet, Victoria’s Secret, Puma, Nautica, Zac Posen, Tory Burch, Betsy Johnson, Armani AX, Tommy Hilfiger, Reebok, Boston Conservatory, Phillip Van Heusen, Natori, Sterlingwear, Talbots, Fossil, Vera Wang, Nicole Miller, J.Jill, Appleseed, and Andrew Harmon.

Fashion Design Faculty

Jayne Avery, Associate Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art

John Di Stefano, Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
M.Ed, Lesley University

Sondra Grace, Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
MA, University of Massachusetts

Renee Harding, Associate Professor
BFA, Rhode Island School of Design

James Mason, Assistant Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art

Jennifer Varekamp, Associate Professor
BFA, Massachusetts College of Art
EdM, Harvard University

Programs

Fashion Design