IDM - The Evolution of Fashion: A Look into the Bachelor of Fashion Design Curriculum

Fashion is an ever-evolving industry that requires a deep understanding of design and the cultural and historical context surrounding clothing. Pursuing a Bachelor of Fashion Design degree is one way to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive field. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the evolution of fashion and explore what students can expect to learn in a Bachelor of Fashion Design curriculum.

Fashion has been around for centuries and has always been a way for people to express themselves and their social status. However, it wasn't until the 19th century that fashion became more democratic, with more people accessing new trends and styles. The Industrial Revolution played a significant role in this, allowing for the mass production of clothing, and making fashion more affordable for the masses.

As fashion continued to evolve, so did the way in which it was taught. Fashion design courses started to appear in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the first official school of fashion design, École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Couture Parisienne, opening its doors in 1927. Since then, fashion designing courses have become increasingly popular, with students from all over the world enrolling in fashion designing colleges to pursue their dreams of becoming fashion designers.

A Bachelor of Fashion Design degree is typically a four-year program that covers a wide range of topics related to fashion design. In the first year, students are introduced to design fundamentals, including drawing, sketching, and pattern making. They also learn about the history of fashion and the various styles and trends that have influenced it.

In the program's second year, students focus more on the technical aspects of fashion design, including garment construction, draping, and sewing. They also learn about fabric and textile design and the different types of materials used in clothing production.

The third year of the program is when students start to specialize in a particular area of fashion design, such as menswear, womenswear, or children's clothing. They also learn about the business side of fashion, including marketing, branding, and retailing.

In the program's final year, students work on their final projects, which typically involve creating a collection of clothing that showcases their design skills and unique perspective on fashion. They also have the opportunity to participate in fashion shows and other industry events, which can help them gain exposure and build their professional network.

Here are some of the common subjects taught in a typical Bachelor of Fashion Design curriculum:

• Design Fundamentals: In the program's first year, students are usually introduced to design fundamentals. This includes learning about colour theory, sketching, drawing, and visualization techniques. Students also learn about design principles like balance, proportion, and harmony.
• Pattern Making: Pattern making is an essential skill for fashion designers. In this subject, students learn how to create patterns for garments such as skirts, dresses, and pants. They also learn how to adjust patterns to ensure a proper fit.
• Garment Construction: Garment construction is another crucial subject in a Bachelor of Fashion Design program. Students learn how to use sewing machines and other tools to construct garments. They also learn about different techniques for finishing edges, attaching buttons and zippers, and other details that go into making a garment.
• Textile and Fabric Design: In this subject, students learn about different types of fabrics and textiles, including their properties, characteristics, and uses. They also learn how to create their own textile designs using various techniques, such as screen printing, dyeing, and digital printing.
• Fashion History: Understanding the history of fashion is essential for fashion designers. In this subject, students learn about the evolution of fashion from ancient times to the present day. They also learn about the various styles and trends that have influenced fashion over the years.
• Fashion Illustration: Fashion illustration is a vital skill for fashion designers. In this subject, students learn how to draw and sketch clothing designs. They also learn how to create technical drawings that show details such as construction, seams, and measurements.
• Draping: Draping is a technique used by fashion designers to create three-dimensional designs directly on a mannequin or dress form. In this subject, students learn how to use fabric to create draped designs for various garments.
• Fashion Marketing and Business: Fashion designers need to understand the industry's business side to succeed. In this subject, students learn about marketing, branding, and retailing in the fashion industry. They also learn about budgeting and financial management.
• Fashion Styling: Fashion styling is the art of creating outfits and coordinating clothing and accessories for a particular look or theme. In this subject, students learn about different styling techniques and how to style garments for various occasions, such as fashion shows and photo shoots.
• Portfolio Development: A strong portfolio is essential for any aspiring fashion designer. In this subject, students learn how to create a professional portfolio that showcases their best work. They also learn to present their portfolios and market themselves to potential employers or clients.
• Sustainable and Ethical Fashion: As the fashion industry becomes more aware of its impact on the environment and society, fashion designers must learn about sustainable and ethical practices in clothing production. In this subject, students learn about sustainable design and production and social responsibility in the fashion industry.

These are just a few of the subjects typically taught in a Bachelor of Fashion Design program. The specific curriculum may vary depending on the program and the school. However, the emphasis is always on providing students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for a career in the fashion industry. By learning about design, garment construction, business, marketing, and sustainability, students can gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive field.

One of the most important aspects of a Bachelor of Fashion Design program is the emphasis on hands-on learning. Students spend much time in the studio, working on projects and collaborating with their peers. They also have the opportunity to intern with fashion companies and designers, which can provide valuable real-world experience and help them build their portfolios.

Another important aspect of the program is the focus on sustainability and ethical fashion. As the fashion industry becomes more aware of its impact on the environment and society, students need to learn about sustainable and ethical practices in clothing production. Many fashion designing colleges now offer courses on sustainable design and production and social responsibility in the fashion industry.

In conclusion, a Bachelor of Fashion Design degree is an excellent way for aspiring fashion designers to gain the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in this competitive industry. The program covers a wide range of topics related to fashion design, including design fundamentals, garment construction, fabric and textile design, and business and marketing. It also emphasizes hands-on learning and provides opportunities for students to gain real-world experience through internships and industry events. As the fashion industry continues to evolve, students need to learn about sustainable and ethical practices in clothing production, and many fashion design courses now offer courses in these areas.