Fashion Design

Fashion Design Program Purpose:
Fashion Design is a comprehensive Applied Design program combining the study of design, textiles, clothing concepts and business. This program includes the study of apparel design and construction; historical costume as design inspiration; the business of fashion retailing; visual merchandising; and computer based design for manufactured apparel. Students participate in research and display of vintage apparel to illustrate how cultural, social and economic influences impact clothing choices and fashions.
The program is designed to provide both classroom and studio work with an on-the-job work experience in area businesses. The learning experience goes beyond the classroom and includes fashion show production, fashion events, community service projects, field trips, and a historical clothing project with the Masquer’s Historic Costume Collections, an extensive collection of authentic apparel from north central West Virginia, 1840-1975.

Student Learning Outcomes:
(Fashion Design and Interior Design options)
Upon successful completion of the AAS degree in Fashion or Interior Design, graduates will be able to do the following:
• Apply knowledge of design theory and the elements and  principles of design through organizing, manipulating, and solving design problems related to their field
• Identify historical periods, materials, components, and products that impact current trends and issues • Communicate and justify, through written and oral presentation and portfolio development, the details, inspiration, problems, solutions, and the vision of their design
• Demonstrate an understanding of business practices, work ethic, professionalism, and consumer marketing principles as related to the products and services of their field

Opportunities in Fashion Design:
Graduates of this program are prepared to pursue entry-level careers in the fashion design business. Such careers include those of apparel buyer at the retail and wholesale level; fashion department and fashion boutique managers; visual fashion merchandisers (including window displays); bridal consultants; and independent apparel shop owners. In addition to strong job prospects, competitive salaries also await Fashion graduates; typical starting annual salaries range from $22-30,000. This program can be articulated into a 2+2 program with the Bachelor of Science degree in Family and Consumer Sciences, with a major in Fashion Merchandising and a minor in Retail Management, without loss of credit through Fairmont State University.