Introduction to the fields of apparel design and merchandising including theories of fashion change, apparel industry operations, current industry issues, literature of the field, professional competencies, careers in apparel and related businesses. A-F only.

(3 Lec, 1 3-hr Lab) Principles, concepts, and procedures for quality construction and custom fitting of clothing.

Historic study of dress as related to customs and cultures in the Western world, in sociohistorical and contemporary contexts. Emphasis on 19th and 20th centuries. Pre: 101.

(2 Lec, 1 3-hr Lab) Principles of pattern making for women’s apparel through manipulation of pattern blocks. Pre: 205.

Development of ethnic dress of China, Japan, and Korea as a visual manifestation of culture. Students will be trained in written communication skills to describe and report important designs of these ethnic dresses related to culture.

Principles and practices in fashion trend forecasting, including environment in analysis, consumer research, competitive analysis, color and textile forecasting, style directions, and digital marketing trends. Adapting fashion trend forecasts to apparel lines. Sophomore standing or higher. Pre: one FW or FG course, or consent.

Principles of pattern making through draping muslin models on standard
garment forms. Pre: 205 and 215. (Spring only)

Advanced study in the specialty market design, pattern making, and
construction for fashion design majors. Different specialty designs, such as swimwear, menswear, or others, will be offered each semester. Repeatable five times. Pre: 215, 221, and 301. Recommended: 315, 330. (Spring only)

Principles of advanced techniques for garment construction with emphasis on new, difficult-to-handle fabrics. Repeatable one time. Pre: 205 and 215.

Visual merchandising concepts and planning; use of a virtual 3D store modeling software package. Visual Retailing/ Mockshop, to design store interiors, fixtures, lighting, signage, window displays, and planograms. A-F only. (Spring only)

Analysis and creation of different types of writing in the fashion industry, with emphasis on creating a professional writing style. A-F only. Pre: 101, 200 or 210, and 221.

Study of principles and practices in brand architecture and effective brand-building strategies; analysis of a case study and application of the concepts of brand management. Junior standing or higher. A-F only. Pre: 101. (Spring only)

Theories and procedures in selecting, buying and selling apparel and textiles. Types of merchandising organizations, analysis of consumer demand, brick-and-click opportunities and challenges, development of an image, operation location, store and floor layout. FDM majors only. Pre: 101 and 221.

Theories, problems, and procedures of financial and assortment planning and control of merchandise inventories. FDM majors and merchandising minors only. Pre: 371.

Application of principles of apparel production management, including methods engineering (detail construction for ordering), story boards and color tables, production measurements, costing, and PLM computer applications. A-F only. Pre: 338 (Once a year)

Development of runway collection. Topic includes: inspirational research, developing aesthetic design, sketching, draping, drafting, patternmaking, muslin proofs, fittings, garment construction, and portfolio. FDM 420 enrollment required to showcase a collection in an annual fashion show. Repeatable three times. Pre: 210, 221, 315, 316, and 330. (Spring only)

Application of principles and procedures related to the promotion of fashion apparel. Preparation and presentation of fashion information through shows, displays, media, and written communications. Repeatable one time. Pre: 101. (Spring only)

Application of principles, procedures and techniques of organizing a small retail business in a brick-and-click world. Students develop, write, and evaluate business plans creatively using low and high tech resources and oral communication skills. Junior standing or higher. FDM majors only; open to non-majors with instructor’s consent. Pre: one FS or FQ course, or consent.

Investigation of skills and techniques needed for handling textile and apparel artifacts in museums and other collections. Active involvement in documenting, researching, interpreting, and exhibiting costumes and textiles. Involves written work and oral presentations. Repeatable one time. FDM majors only. A-F only. Pre: 210, 269, or 418.

Theories, concepts, problems of international trade of textile and apparel products. Issues of importing and exporting apparel products globally. Social, economic, and ethical factors affecting textile and apparel trade.

Study and discussion of special topics, problems. Offered by staff and visiting faculty. Repeatable five times.

Examination of issues and opportunities associated with careers in fashion and related businesses and industries. Topics include interpersonal skills development, job search and interview strategies, and ethical issues in the workplace. FDM majors only. A-F only. Junior standing or higher. Pre: consent.

Integration and application of academic knowledge and critical skills emphasizing professional development. Includes extensive instruction in writing and communication. Pre: 492 and senior standing.

Study tours to various centers of the world to examine historical and modern apparel and textiles. Merchandising and design methods and operations examined. Repeatable up to 12 credits. Pre: consent.

Repeatable up to 15 credits. Pre: consent.