Fashion Merchandising and Design

A study of the operations involved in the production and merchandising of apparel including fashion dynamics and product life cycle. 

The practical application of basic construction techniques including pattern alterations and analysis of quality construction in ready-to-wear. Two lectures and four hours of laboratory each week.

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

A study of merchandising and product display practices in retail spaces. This course delves into diverse principles and techniques of visual presentations for highlighting product features, engaging customers, and promoting sales.

The study of the social and psychological aspects of clothing in our society today. The meaning of clothes in specific social situations, cultural contexts of dress, clothing as a form of nonverbal communications, and individual thought processes about clothing and appearance are studied.

A study of textile products from raw materials through manufacturing and finishing of fabrics. Emphasis on selection and care of textiles.

Basic principles and methods used in garment structure and design with emphasis on flat pattern.

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will participate in a research or creative project investigating issues and problems in clothing and fashion merchandising. This course will provide an introduction to the methods and techniques of the discipline. The research experience will culminate in a paper and presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration. 

A study of retail operations including store management, buying procedures, retail organization, and merchandising mathematics. 

This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the history of costume, from ancient Egypt to the dynamics of the 20th century. This course explores Western and Eastern fashion traditions beyond traditional narratives. Students will delve into the intricate interplay of clothing with religion, politics, technology, and artistry, gaining a deeper understanding of its role as a mirror to societal values and individual identities. Through engaging lectures, discussions, and projects, students will uncover the diverse traditions of Eastern and Western cultures and the evolution of dress. By examining fashion from a global perspective, students will appreciate and understand its profound impact and interconnectedness throughout history.

The application of technical, creative, and analytical skills in developing seasonal apparel lines. Emphasis will be placed on targeting market identification, selecting fabric and trimmings in relation to price determination, developing operation sheets, and budgeting seasonal collections. 

The study of gathering, analyzing, interpreting and diffusing information for the purpose of increasing the competitive advantage for the textile and apparel branches of the fashion industry.

A study of the principles of apparel design using the draping method. Emphasis on fit, design, appropriateness, and construction techniques.

Exploration of basic proportions of the various fashion figures with an emphasis on female market segment. Introduction of fashion sketching techniques using various media and professional materials to communicate original design ideas. 

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

This course will be a culminating experience for fashion majors. It will examine career opportunities in the fashion industry with specific emphasis on qualifications for each different job. It will examine professional etiquette, professional behavior, and best practices in the field. It will provide instruction for and the opportunity to compile a portfolio for the design or merchandising student.

Advanced techniques in garment selection, fitting, and construction. Analysis of custom and fusible methods of tailoring. One lecture and five hours of laboratory each week.

Applications of apparel design techniques utilizing the computer to facilitate the design process. Emphasis will be placed on original garment and textile designs.

This course applies retail strategy and merchandising principles to the day-to-day activities and responsibilities of a retail buyer. Emphasis on customer identification, sales forecasting, merchandise budgeting, assortment planning, merchandise procurement, and vendor analysis. 

An in-depth study of problems which retailers are currently facing. Business environments are simulated for students to analyze, evaluate, and select alternative solutions which would best suit each firm studied. Recommendations will be submitted in the form of oral and written reports. 

A study of retailing as it embraces multichannel distribution. Course content includes the evolution, components, and strategies used in multichannel retailing, as well as legal, technological, and ethical issues. Customer services, consumer behavior, social media strategies, business intelligence, and supply chain issues will also be studied as they relate to alternative channels of distribution.

Special topics course offered in response to student and faculty interest.

As a group, senior design students will prepare and install an exhibit of their work or produce a fashion show featuring their own designs. Students are responsible for all aspects of their project including the promotion of the show or exhibit, labeling of items, securing models and/or dress forms, staging or set up, and hospitality arrangements. 

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will formulate and execute a research project at an advanced level of complexity that will culminate in a paper and a presentation. The project must meet Honors Program thesis requirements as well as the expectations of the clothing and fashion merchandising faculty. A research proposal form completed by the student, faculty mentor, and Honors Program director is required for registration.

In conjunction with a faculty mentor, the student will develop and conduct a research or creative project exploring issues and problems in Fashion Merchandising and Design. The research experience will culminate in a paper and presentation. A research proposal form completed by the student and faculty mentor is required for registration.