Fashion Design courses provide a behind-the-scenes look into the world of Italian Fashion Design for beginner and intermediate fashion major students. Practical, hands-on courses in fashion illustration, textile design, and garment construction are complemented with lecture courses and information on how the industry functions in general and more specifically, in one of the leading countries for fashion design, Italy.
Fashion Merchandising introduces students to the nature of the fashion industry as a business entity through a variety of merchandising course offerings including Branding, Show Production, Fashion Buying, and Trends Forecasting.
Facilities & Materials
The fashion studios are equipped with 13 beginning and advanced sewing machines, two overlock cutters, and forms for both European and USA standards. Cutting table, professional ironing boards, and numerous advanced model stands are available for each student. Included in the course fees are illustration drawing materials, muslin, and embellishments. In addition, the SRISA fashion studio provides an extensive collection of materials for students to use including magazines for collage, buttons, zippers, thread, and cloth samples. Students are responsible for purchasing some of their own materials, including marker paper, color paper, markers, needles and thread, and embellishments for final garments.
Course Structure
Lectures, video presentations, readings, and research projects introduce students to the theoretical concerns of the fashion industry, while practical demonstrations and creative studio projects guide students in the development of creative and technical skills.
Frequent group critiques and class discussions further enrich students’ knowledge of the subject by comparing projects and opinions. Visits to museums, exhibitions, fairs, studios, and fashion boutiques help students cultivate an aesthetic sensitivity and first-hand knowledge of the fashion industry.
Field trips
Florence hosts numerous important textile and fashion fairs and events throughout the year. including Pitti Immagine Filati, the leading trade event showcasing yarns for the knitting sector. In January and June, Florence hosts Pitti Immagine Filati, the leading trade event showcasing yarns for the knitting sector, and Pitti Immagine Uomo, an important event dedicated to men’s fashion. June also sees the Vintage Selection, one of the most famous international markets where you can buy fashion and vintage design. Throughout the year, students experience a unique view into fashion history with visits to museums such as the Gucci Museum, Ferragamo Museum and the Museo del Costume.
Student Fashion Show
At the end of each semester, the SRISA Fashion Show, coordinated with the Fashion Promotion and Show Production courses and students throughout the Fashion Department, presents the final projects created during the term. The student body, staff, and faculty are invited to attend along with special guests for this special event.
