I graduated with a diploma from Fanshawe College’s Fashion Design program in London, Ontario. I chose to make my move towards fashion in highschool because of my interest in design, my artistic skills and my hobby of making clothes. I initially chose the program because I was accepted, went to the open house to check out the school, and it seemed to be good.
I really think that teachers are just looking to see that you are dedicated enough to do the required work.
When I applied, there was no additional design/sewing/written submission requirements. I believe there is now though. I really think that teachers are just looking to see that you are dedicated enough to do the required work. If you are able to go to an open house, you should. You can get a feel for the environment that you will be in and learn more about the program.
The Fashion Design Program
First Year
This year is very much an introduction into all the skills needed for Fashion Design; learning how to draw people, clothing, and detail, patternmaking (drafting), design, construction, a mandatory English and Microsoft Office Course and one elective class. Fanshawe has a great selection of interesting elective classes and the ones you take do not necessarily need to relate to Fashion Design.
Second Year
This is basically a more difficult and advanced level of first year; patternmaking, draping, computer illustrations, computer patternmaking, construction, textiles, history, fashion business, and an elective. This year was really flexible and enjoyable, but you learn enough to prepare you for 3rd year. You should by now have a little more of an idea of what area of the industry you prefer to head into.
Third Year
For the final semester you have the knowledge and experience to create your 5 piece line for the UNBOUND Fashion Show.
This year is the most independent. You learn more in Computer Patternmaking, Draping, and Construction (high-end details and finishes). In Fifth Semester you design Evening Wear for the following semester. For the final semester you have the knowledge and experience to create your 5 piece line for the UNBOUND Fashion Show. The whole semester is dedicated towards this. At the same time as you’re creating your fashion line, you’re put into teams to work towards the production of the final show. The Fashion Show is judged by industry judges based on the design and construction of your line for your target market. This process is for you final grade.
Co-op and Career Opportunities
The only negative experience I had was in the Co-op program. It had poor organization and very few opportunities. It’s great if you find a co-op placement that works out. If you don’t find a placement, don’t fret; there’s opportunity to gain experience after graduation. All students of this program have the option of taking the co-op program during the summer breaks. This is not mandatory and will not affect your grade, but you do get a certificate when you graduate.
The Extras
- The faculty is always looking at new ways to improve the program.
- There are field trips to places in London, Toronto and New York.
- They try making extra expenses as minimal as possible.
- Halloween and Christmas Parties/Potlucks for the Fashion Design Program which brings fun and spirit.
- Every year there are lots of Fashion Events in the city to participate in.
- Every semester your designs are judged by industry and if you win, sometimes you get a free photoshoot with your design!
- Class sizes usually range from 20-40 students.
- The classroom and lab are available for student use when classes are not in session.
- The teachers help you create a professional portfolio with the work you have done over your 3 year period. They also prepare you for interviews.
- After you graduate they notify you via e-mail of any fashion opportunities.
- It really depends on the individual when finding a job. Be patient, persistent, and professional.
After graduating from the program I feel prepared for all aspects of the fashion industry.
The Verdict
Fanshawe’s Fashion Design program went above and beyond my expectations. There’s still lots to learn through industry experience, but after graduating from the program I feel prepared for all aspects of the fashion industry. There are so many directions to go in that you may learn what you like most during your time in Fanshaw’s Fashion Design program. For those who are not sure whether you want to be in design, production, buying, or styling, I say take anything that comes your way; it will get you some experience and give you an idea of what future directions to follow.
I’ve heard and spoken to other people in Fashion programs and from what I’ve heard, I think Fanshawe’s program is the best out of all the Ontario Colleges. I haven’t spoken to many people who’ve gone to Ryerson though, so I can’t make any comparisons there. Our UNBOUND Show has previously been in connection with LG Toronto Fashion Week (where graduating designers would showcase their final designs on runway) and Flare Magazine (which was coupled with the UNBOUND magazine). The most recent successful graduates have been Brandon Dwyer and Brian Maristela.
(3 votes, average: 4.67 out of 5)
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