Fashion: Fashion Camp

This camp 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 build fundamental skills in fashion research and drawing, draping, garment construction, and machine and hand sewing. Students also explore sculptural draping by using paper to create exciting experimental garments on the dress form. As their designs develop, additional technical skills are introduced, including fabric printing, fabric dyeing, and embroidery. Visits to the Art Institute of Chicago, SAIC's Fashion Resource Center, and the Flaxman Library provide inspiration and supplement the studio experience. Working with hand-dyed fabric and deconstructed thrift store garments, each camp ends in an exciting runway show for parents and friends. Lessons/projects change each camp so students may enroll in multiple camps over the summer.