What Will I Learn in Fashion School?

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by Sarah Clark
Fashion School Review Columnist

July 19, 2006

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During fashion design school, you'll learn what you need to kick-start a career in fashion. From sketching and sewing to merchandising and advertising, you'll have an opportunity to learn the ins and outs of clothing design and the business side of fashion.

What can you expect during a fashion school program? Fashion schools vary in focus, of course--many are unique. Some will offer more classes on merchandising than clothing design, for example. Others may offer classes for aspiring costume designers. Some may focus on crafting artful lines and silhouettes, endeavoring to train future designers in haute couture or the traditional sartorial arts.

Choosing a Fashion School That's Right for You

So how is one to choose among all the variety? It's simple. Decide what area of design most interests you. Do you want to work for a large clothing manufacturer, churning out new designs on a dime? If so, you might choose a school that focuses on merchandising and design for large apparel companies. Do you want to work for an elite fashion house? Consider attending a fashion school in New York, Paris, Berlin or London where you can hobnob with some of fashion's glitterati. Maybe the business of fashion is your passion. Choose a school that offers courses such as merchandising, distribution, branding, and supply chain management.

Fashion Business Classes

If you decide to focus on business, you'll likely take courses in merchandising, advertising, and apparel distribution. You'll learn about production deadlines and purchase orders. You'll learn how supply chain management supports branding activities and other aspects of the fashion business.

Clothing Design Courses

Focusing on fashion design, you'll take courses in sewing and sketching. You'll learn how to make a pattern and cut it. You'll probably have an opportunity to refine your sketching skills and learn how to more effectively bring your design ideas to life through sketches. You may learn about traditional and more inventive methods of stitching. You'll become expert in using material in innovative and practical ways.

These are just a few of the many useful things you'll learn in fashion school--the key is finding the one that offers courses in your area of interest. Start looking now and begin your clothing design career today.

About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer specializing in career development and postsecondary education.

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