BA (Hons) Fashion Design

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Fashion Design program at Leeds Arts University provides an immersive and comprehensive undergraduate experience for individuals passionate about shaping the future of fashion. This program is meticulously designed to equip students with a strong foundation in all aspects of the fashion design process, from initial concept development and trend forecasting to garment construction, pattern cutting, and fashion communication. It emphasizes the development of individual design aesthetics, critical thinking, technical proficiency, and an understanding of the social, ethical, and environmental responsibilities within the fashion industry. Students are encouraged to explore diverse design approaches, experiment with innovative materials and techniques, and develop a strong personal design identity. The program fosters a collaborative and experimental learning environment, preparing graduates for a wide array of roles within the dynamic and evolving global fashion industry. Students will develop a substantial portfolio of their design work, showcasing their creativity, technical skills, and design philosophy.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Fashion Design program at Leeds Arts University is structured to provide a comprehensive and progressive understanding of the fashion design process. It typically encompasses core modules that delve into fashion design principles, concept development, trend research and analysis, garment construction, pattern cutting (manual and digital), textile studies, fashion illustration and CAD, fashion communication and promotion, fashion history and theory, and sustainable design practices. A strong emphasis is placed on developing strong drawing and technical skills as foundational elements for effective design realization. Students will engage with industry-standard software such as Adobe Illustrator and CLO 3D. The curriculum often incorporates project-based learning, allowing students to work individually and collaboratively on design briefs, developing collections from initial concept to final garment. Critical analysis of contemporary and historical fashion is integrated throughout the program to provide a robust intellectual framework for creative practice. Students are also encouraged to explore niche areas within fashion design and to develop their own unique design signature.

Research Focus: The BA (Hons) Fashion Design program at Leeds Arts University encourages a research-informed approach to creative practice, prompting students to explore the theoretical, historical, cultural, and technological aspects of fashion design. Research within the program often involves investigating fashion trends, analyzing the work of influential designers, exploring innovative materials and technologies, and examining the social and ethical implications of fashion production and consumption. Students are supported in developing their own research interests and using their design process as a form of inquiry. This might involve researching historical dress for contemporary inspiration, experimenting with sustainable design practices, or analyzing the impact of digital technologies on fashion design and communication. Practice-based research is central, with students using their developing design collections as a means of generating new knowledge and understanding. The program fosters critical reflection on the design process and encourages students to articulate their design choices through research and analysis.

Industry Engagement: Industry engagement is a vital component of the BA (Hons) Fashion Design program at Leeds Arts University, providing students with invaluable connections to the professional fashion industry. The university actively fosters relationships with fashion designers, brands, retailers, manufacturers, and fashion media. Students benefit from opportunities to participate in live briefs set by industry partners, workshops and masterclasses led by renowned fashion professionals, portfolio reviews with industry experts, and potential internships or work placements. Guest lectures from leading fashion designers, stylists, buyers, and journalists offer valuable insights into current industry trends, practices, and career pathways. The program often facilitates collaborations with external organizations, allowing students to gain real-world experience and build their professional networks. The annual graduate fashion show serves as a crucial platform for students to showcase their design collections to potential employers and make connections within the industry. The university's dedicated careers service provides ongoing support in preparing portfolios, developing professional skills, and navigating the job market.

Global Perspective: The BA (Hons) Fashion Design program at Leeds Arts University incorporates a global perspective by examining the international nature of the fashion industry and the diverse cultural influences that shape fashion trends and design aesthetics worldwide. The curriculum often explores global fashion markets, international design movements, ethical sourcing and production, and the impact of globalization on fashion consumption and culture. Students are encouraged to consider diverse cultural perspectives in their design work and to understand the challenges and opportunities of operating in a globalized fashion landscape. The presence of international students and faculty within the university fosters a rich and cross-cultural learning environment, promoting the exchange of global perspectives and ideas within the field of fashion design. Students are encouraged to consider the global reach of their designs and to develop a portfolio that demonstrates an awareness of international fashion trends, ethical considerations, and diverse cultural influences, preparing them for careers in a globalized fashion industry.