BFA.APPAR.120 - BFA in Apparel Design

2025 - 2026 | Curriculum | 4-year program

During sophomore year, students begin exploring apparel and bodily ornamentation as a means of identity projection/expression. Studios offer both a conceptual lens through which majors investigate individual and social identity, and core design and construction skills, including interdisciplinary approaches to making.

Through self-expression and visual communication, juniors learn to center their creative voices within their design process and its outcomes. Along the way they focus on knitwear, making both by hand and with knitting machines, to experiment three-dimensionally and explore the unique properties of knit fabrics.

Learning outcomes

Graduates of the BFA program are prepared to:

• develop an approach to apparel design informed by an understanding that clothing the body is an invaluable form of self-expression integral to how people present themselves to and move through the world.

• learn about critical discourses that investigate clothing on ideological terms, examining how apparel designers present and represent bodies, how clothing connects to identity/identities and how aesthetics, apparel design and sensorial human experience relate to one another.

• learn qualitative research methods for investigating identity/identities, sourcing and audience in relation to the work they make.

• gain a deep understanding of positive and sustainable practices in order to question, challenge and participate in the evolving world of fashion as forward-looking agents of change.

• acquire a strong base in traditional making and craftsmanship, including drawing, pattern cutting, flat pattern, and 3D draping, garment construction and fitting.

• develop effective communication and presentation strategies, problem setting, project planning and organization.

• generate and share knowledge.