Fashion: Fashion Studio

This course introduces young designers to fashion with an emphasis on discovering their own style while learning the technical skills that allow them to take their designs from concept to reality. Activities guide students through the process of developing original ideas, finding inspiration for fashion in the world around them, and responding to the work of other artists and designers. Students also explore sculptural draping by using paper to create exciting experimental garments on the dress form. As their designs develop, technical skills are introduced, including printing, embroidery, draping, and machine sewing. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago and the Flaxman Library provide inspiration and supplement the studio experience. Working with hand-dyed fabric and deconstructed thrift store garments, each student creates a complete outfit for a runway fashion show at the end of the course. Lessons/projects change each semester so students may enroll in this course multiple times.