Fashion, Body and Garment Overview

The Department of Fashion, Body and Garment at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers serious fashion design students a dynamic, intensive Master of Fine Arts in Fashion, Body and Garment program. Available in both two-year and three-year tracks based on experience, the program allows students to produce a distilled collection or body of work—and learn how to best show that work off, from presentations to gallery exhibitions.

In the program’s main component, the Fashion Design Studio taken each semester, students will investigate both craft and style to develop a deeper understanding of fashion within the context of community, sustainability, technology, and the industry.

Fashion, Body and Garment MFA students are encouraged to explore while also focusing on their individual practice through a combination of:

  • Dedicated design studios
  • Topical seminars
  • Self-directed research
  • Technical labs
  • Design history and theory courses

You are also encouraged to explore a range of electives in other disciplines, such as:

  • Performance
  • Film, Video, New Media, and Animation
  • Writing
  • Sculpture
  • Fiber and Material Studies 
Professor Nick Cave

Letter from Nick Cave

It's been a decade since the School of the Art Institute of Chicago's Fashion Department launched its graduate program called Master of Design, Fashion, Body & Garment.

We are extremely proud of its success, but even more by its growth. The program keeps evolving as the world keeps changing, ensuring its relevance to our creative future. This dynamic quality is what keeps it fresh, exciting, and always BOLD.

As an artist, educator, and activist it has also been an incredible opportunity for me to spearhead this program. It has gifted me with a plethora of amazing young creators who are quickly becoming the next leaders in the field of fashion, art, education, politics, and parenting.

I could not be more proud of each and everyone's success to date and look forward to your future development via whatever road you choose next.
 

– Nick Cave
Stephanie and Bill Sick Professor of Fashion, Body and Garment

Two-Year MFA Program

Our two-year MFA program is designed for students looking to build on their existing foundations and elevate their portfolios to new heights. This program encourages fashion students to push the boundaries of fashion design, work at a large scale, and think expansively about their practices. Our MFA in Fashion, Body and Garment offers a transformational experience that embraces a pluralistic approach, allowing students to explore fashion as installation, performance, and beyond. With the freedom to experiment and innovate, students will take their work to the next level while redefining the possibilities of their craft. Learn more about the courses and curriculum.

Requirements & Curriculum

  • First Year Fall 15
    • FASH 5310 Fashion Design Studio I (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week) 
    • FASH 5313 Advanced Fabrication & Material (3)
      Studio class (5 hours)
    • FASH 5315 Seminar: Professional Practice (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 
    • ARTHI 5002 Grad Survey of Modern and Contemporary Art (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 

     

    First Year Spring 15
    • FASH 5330 Fashion Design Studio II (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week) 

    • ARTHI 5560 Critical Perspectives in Fashion, Body and Garment (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 

    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class

    • Elective 2, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class

     

    First Year Additional Requirements  
    Participation in Fall & Spring Graduate Critiques
     
    Second Year Fall 15
    • FASH 6310 Fashion Design Studio III (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week) 
    • ARTHI 5028 Form and Function in Fashion and Design History (recommended) 
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 
    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3) 
      Seminar or Studio class
    • Elective 2, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class 

     

    Second Year Spring 15
    • FASH 6330 Fashion Design Studio IV (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week)
    • FASH 6335 Seminar: Professional Practice II (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes)
    • Art History: must be 4000, 5000, or 6000 level (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 
    • Elective, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class

     

    Second Year Additional Requirements 
    Participation in Fall & Spring Graduate Critiques
    Participation in the Thesis Show
     
    Total Credit Hours
    Fashion, Body & Garment Studios: 27
    Interdisciplinary or Fashion Electives:15
    Professional Practice: 6
    Art History: 12
    60

    Degree requirements and specifications

    Completion schedule: Students have a maximum of four years to complete the degree. This includes time off for approved leaves of absence.

    Transfer credits: A minimum of 45 credit hours must be completed in residence at SAIC. Up to 15 transfer credits may be requested at the time of application for admission and are subject to approval at that time. No transfer credit will be permitted after a student is admitted.

    Design Studio: Each design studio must be successfully completed prior to participation in the consecutive design studio.

    Advanced Fabrication Lab: FASH 5311 Advanced Fabrication Lab must be taken in the first fall semester.

    Full-Time Status Minimum Requirement: 12 credit hours

Three-Year MFA Program

Our three-year MFA program is designed to provide students with the technical foundations they need, from making patterns to learning essential construction techniques. With incoming students coming from a variety of experience and disciplinary backgrounds, this program offers an additional foundational year. This allows students to develop and refine their fashion-related skill sets without having to start from scratch in an undergraduate program. As a fast-track option for those with an existing undergraduate degree, this unique program helps students transition into fashion design and related fields. Unlike any other degree—our groundbreaking MFA allows students to spend three intensive years honing their technical skills, developing distinct points of view, and benefiting from tailored advising. That makes this program an ideal choice for anyone looking to pivot their career and enter the world of fashion design. Learn more about the courses and curriculum.

Requirements & Curriculum

  • First Year Fall 12
    • FASH 5110 Design Principles (3)
      Studio class (5 hours) 
    • FASH 5122 Studio Techniques (3)
      Studio class (5 hours)
    • FASH 6315 Seminar: Professional Practice (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 
    • ARTHI 5002 Graduate Survey of Modern and Contemporary (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 

     

    First Year Spring12
    • FASH 5130 Advanced Design Principles (6)
      (5 hours, two days per week) 
    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
    • Elective 2, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class

     

    First Year Additional Requirements
    Participation in Fall & Spring Graduate Critiques   
     
    Second Year Fall 12
    • FASH 5310 Fashion Design Studio I (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week) 
    • FASH 5313 Advanced Fabrication & Material (3)
      Studio class (5 hours) 
    • Art History: must be 4000, 5000, or 6000 level (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) 
       

     

    Second Year Spring 15
    • FASH 5330 Fashion Design Studio II (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week)
    • ARTHI 5560 Critical Perspectives in Fashion, Body and Garment (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes)
    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
    • Elective 2, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
       
     
    Second Year Additional Requirements
    Participation in Fall & Spring Graduate Critiques 
     
    Third Year Fall15
    • FASH 6310 Fashion Design Studio III (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week)
    • Art History: must be 4000, 5000 or 6000 level (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes) ARTHI 5028 Form and Function in Fashion and Design History (recommended)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes)
    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
    • Elective 2, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
     
    Third Year Spring 12
    • FASH 6330 Fashion Design Studio IV (6)
      Studio class (5 hours, two days per week)
    • FASH 6335 Seminar: Professional Practice II (3)
      Seminar class (2 hours, 45 minutes)
    • Elective 1, 3000 level and above (3)
      Seminar or Studio class
     
    Third Year Additional Requirements 
    Participation in Fall & Spring Graduate Critiques
    Participation in the Thesis Show
     
    Total Credit Hours
    Fashion, Body & Garment Studios: 39
    Interdisciplinary or Fashion Electives: 21
    Professional Practice: 6
    Art History: 12
    78

    Degree requirements and specifications

    Completion schedule: Students have a maximum of four years to complete the degree. This includes time off for approved leaves of absence.

    Transfer credits: A minimum of 45 credit hours must be completed in residence at SAIC. Up to 15 transfer credits may be requested at the time of application for admission and are subject to approval at that time. No transfer credit will be permitted after a student is admitted.

    Design Studio: Each design studio must be successfully completed prior to participation in the consecutive design studio.

    Advanced Fabrication Lab: FASH 5311 Advanced Fabrication Lab must be taken in the fall semester of the second year of the MFA 3-yr.

    Full-Time Status Minimum Requirement: 12 credit hours

Course Listing

Title Catalog Instructor Schedule

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1491

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 702

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1492

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1493

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 706

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1494

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1495

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1527

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

This is an introductory look into fashion. Students will explore basic design skills
and processes, and work with various materials used in constructing garments. Both traditional and non-traditional materials will be explored through techniques and exercises related to the body. Students will learn how the tools and equipment for hand and machine sewing functions, and its role in constructing garments. A critical overview of fashion introduces students to various practical and theoretical approaches to understand and explore fashion within an art context.

Class Number

1538

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1528

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 702

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1529

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1530

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 706

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1531

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1537

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 702

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1539

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 702

Description

This course offers foundational methods of draping, pattern drafting, and construction techniques to build garments. The students learn how to develop a set of slopers, consisting of bodice, sleeve and skirt, combining and integrating draping and pattern drafting methods. Through these methods, the students develop and construct design concepts, first in muslin, then in fabric; stressing the importance of proper fit and craftsmanship. No pre-req.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1543

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 702

Description

Fashion Design I builds the skills and talents required to achieve creative fashion. This class teaches the design fundamentals of the integrated core fashion design curriculum. Students will engage multiple skills to create individual, visionary, unconventional garments, and later, collections. Through a series of projects, students explore form, silhouette, volume, and research in design to arrive at a personal point-of-view in fashion. This course will specifically ask students to work conceptually and to develop research methodologies in their design work. Based on this inquiry, students generate sketches and surface treatments to refine their unique silhouettes and material manipulations. No prerequisite.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1532

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

Fashion Design I builds the skills and talents required to achieve creative fashion. This class teaches the design fundamentals of the integrated core fashion design curriculum. Students will engage multiple skills to create individual, visionary, unconventional garments, and later, collections. Through a series of projects, students explore form, silhouette, volume, and research in design to arrive at a personal point-of-view in fashion. This course will specifically ask students to work conceptually and to develop research methodologies in their design work. Based on this inquiry, students generate sketches and surface treatments to refine their unique silhouettes and material manipulations. No prerequisite.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1533

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

Fashion Design I builds the skills and talents required to achieve creative fashion. This class teaches the design fundamentals of the integrated core fashion design curriculum. Students will engage multiple skills to create individual, visionary, unconventional garments, and later, collections. Through a series of projects, students explore form, silhouette, volume, and research in design to arrive at a personal point-of-view in fashion. This course will specifically ask students to work conceptually and to develop research methodologies in their design work. Based on this inquiry, students generate sketches and surface treatments to refine their unique silhouettes and material manipulations. No prerequisite.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1534

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 703

Description

Fashion Design I builds the skills and talents required to achieve creative fashion. This class teaches the design fundamentals of the integrated core fashion design curriculum. Students will engage multiple skills to create individual, visionary, unconventional garments, and later, collections. Through a series of projects, students explore form, silhouette, volume, and research in design to arrive at a personal point-of-view in fashion. This course will specifically ask students to work conceptually and to develop research methodologies in their design work. Based on this inquiry, students generate sketches and surface treatments to refine their unique silhouettes and material manipulations. No prerequisite.

Prerequisites

Students must be a sophomore grade level or permission by instructor

Class Number

1535

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

Explorations in the design of 'experimental' garments using the basic elements of mass, volume, form and motion. Rather than concerning themselves with current design trends or regular fashion problems, students emphasize bodies as forms in motion or as moving sculpture.

Class Number

1515

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Community & Social Engagement

Location

Sullivan Center 723

Description

Explorations in the design of 'experimental' garments using the basic elements of mass, volume, form and motion. Rather than concerning themselves with current design trends or regular fashion problems, students emphasize bodies as forms in motion or as moving sculpture.

Class Number

1519

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Community & Social Engagement

Location

Sullivan Center 723

Description

In this workshop, students create various accessories from original ideas. This program is divided into projects such as the design and construction of embellished evening bags, summer totes, gloves, costume jewelry, and millinery. Emphasis is placed on references to history of individual accessories and developing collections of illustrations in color.

Class Number

1496

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Product Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

This course develops drawing skills with an emphasis on figure gesture and proportion along with a wide range of media. Students are taught to sketch from a live model while communicating design concepts in clothing with style and expression.

Class Number

1497

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Illustration

Location

Sullivan Center 734

Description

This course develops drawing skills with an emphasis on figure gesture and proportion along with a wide range of media. Students are taught to sketch from a live model while communicating design concepts in clothing with style and expression.

Class Number

1498

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Illustration

Location

Sullivan Center 734

Description

This course develops drawing skills with an emphasis on figure gesture and proportion along with a wide range of media. Students are taught to sketch from a live model while communicating design concepts in clothing with style and expression.

Class Number

1541

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Illustration

Location

Sullivan Center 734

Description

The human head as a moving and turning pedestal presents continually changing views of sculptural headwear and millinery. Students reconsider the relationship of hat to head, and the potential of traditional and alternative materials. Straw sculpting, block carving, felt blocking, and couture sewing are used in exploration of 'the hat' as a sculptural form.

Class Number

1511

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

Giving woven fabrics and alternative flat materials three-dimensional form is key to many sculptural disciplines, most notably headwear design, and garment and fiber works. Beginning with headwear projects as a prime example of self-supported sculptural form, students proceed through a study of methodologies such as pattern drafting, blocking, draping, and carved-form patterning to develop headwear or other objects suiting their individual practice. Assembly is achieved through hand stitching, machine sewing, or innovative techniques appropriate to specific materials. Visual imagery and texts assist in the development of concepts, and the study of interior and exterior space.

Class Number

1517

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

Designed to encourage 3-dimensional surface experimentation, this course begins with traditional embellishment methodologies primarily originating in couture millinery, as a means of altering or breaking away surfaces and dimensions. Students then explore alternative materials and methods to transform, mutate or redefine garments, accessories, etc., or to create textured objects in their entirety.

To provide related information of interest, selected texts concerning the sociological theories of craftsmanship may be included as well as works by authors like Thor Hanson, Laura Jacobs, Candace Kling, Howard Risatti and Erica Wilson. Field trips to local venues, videos such as the Craft in America series, plus the investigation of works by artists like Nick Cave, Tara Donovan, the Haas Brothers, and Kate MccGwire optionally augment the course content.

Projects may be based on up-cycled objects and materials, and will entail various techniques including ribbon manipulation, feather work, flower tooling, and embroidery. Fur/faux sewing and leather tooling are introduced, and other `thread arts? (macrame, tatting, etc.) may be individually investigated in support of conceptual and formal design.

Class Number

1508

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 727

Description

Various investigations are conducted regarding traditional and alternative shoe design and assembly. Assigned readings and discussions focus on history, materials, the designers, lifestyle, terminology and processes, and the involvement of feet and shoes in art. Emphasis is placed on interpreting the foot and shoe for visual presentations and experimenting with components for artistic and practical expression. Final critiques include presentations of one of half pairs of shoes and sandals, illustrations, weekly clipping files and a thematic selection of thematic original ideas. Group critiques are scheduled several times during the semester. Weekly slide lectures, field trips, guest lectures or demonstration enable students to develop their ideas in the studio with a focus on fit and originality.

Class Number

1499

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 723

Description

Various investigations are conducted regarding traditional and alternative shoe design and assembly. Assigned readings and discussions focus on history, materials, the designers, lifestyle, terminology and processes, and the involvement of feet and shoes in art. Emphasis is placed on interpreting the foot and shoe for visual presentations and experimenting with components for artistic and practical expression. Final critiques include presentations of one of half pairs of shoes and sandals, illustrations, weekly clipping files and a thematic selection of thematic original ideas. Group critiques are scheduled several times during the semester. Weekly slide lectures, field trips, guest lectures or demonstration enable students to develop their ideas in the studio with a focus on fit and originality.

Class Number

1540

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 723

Description

This class is an explorative approach into traditional and non-traditional methods of creating and manipulating surface through texture. Techniques such as knitting, crocheting, stitching and embellishment will provide a language that speaks about shape and form through construction. Demonstrations will encourage students to create concepts that are three-dimensional in form. Using the body as a foundation in a space, garments and objects that are worn or used will be created as individual projects. Offered in the fall semester only.

Class Number

1506

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 701

Description

This course will trace the use of structured undergarments worn by women from the eighteenth century to the present day as a basis for the design and construction of garments. Both traditional and nontraditional fabrics and materials are explored while conceptual and historic issues are discussed using references within the department's Fashion Resource Center. All final projects are fitted on a model in both muslin and fabric.

Class Number

1509

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Gender and Sexuality

Location

Sullivan Center 706

Description

In this workshop students develop a practical understanding of the procedures used by costume designers and their assistants and crew in film and television production. Weekly lectures and hands-on demonstrations focus on projects including breaking down a script based on character and scene, doing research towards developing characters through costume choices, and techniques used to present those choices to the director and producer. Students break down a script from a show in current production. Final critiques include presentation of the breakdown with clip file photos and drawings of their costume choices for the entire script.

Class Number

1518

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design, Playwriting/Screenwriting

Location

MacLean 1307

Description

In this course the students will study and construct theater masks, corresponding headpieces and mantles or capes. Masks and mantles are based on Commedia dell'arte and baroque silhouettes. Students will also illustrate a fairy tale or morality play, using Commedia dell'arte and baroque stylistic elements (costume, architectural and interior backgrounds).

Class Number

1520

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Costume Design

Location

Sullivan Center 723

Description

This course introduces students to digital pattern-making for fashion. Students learn to use the CAD hardware and software, designing and modifying patterns virtually. This includes digitizing/converting hard patterns to digital files, modifying existing stock patterns, textile printing, 3-D visualization, and plotting sample patterns. Students receive a hands-on approach to developing virtual patterns through fabric testing, using body measurements, and assembling prototypes for final design approval. Other industry skills are developed, such as creating pattern cards, cutter's musts, grading, and marker making.

Prerequisites

FASH 2001/2014/2016/2020/2022/2024/2901

Class Number

1514

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Digital Imaging, Gender and Sexuality, Art and Science

Location

Sullivan Center 705, MacLean 917

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Construction III introduces the intermediate construction principles for pants and jackets. Tailoring, cut-and-sew knitwear, and creative draping techniques used on a variety of body types, and gender expressions are explored. The principles of proportion, balance, and fit as required for the achievement of well-made garments will also be studied. Pre req: minimum two Fashion construction classes: FASH 2001, FASH 2003, FASH 2020, FASH2022 or FASH2024

Prerequisites

Student must have completed either FASH 2900 or FASH 2003

Class Number

1521

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Construction III introduces the intermediate construction principles for pants and jackets. Tailoring, cut-and-sew knitwear, and creative draping techniques used on a variety of body types, and gender expressions are explored. The principles of proportion, balance, and fit as required for the achievement of well-made garments will also be studied. Pre req: minimum two Fashion construction classes: FASH 2001, FASH 2003, FASH 2020, FASH2022 or FASH2024

Prerequisites

Student must have completed either FASH 2900 or FASH 2003

Class Number

1522

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 706, Sullivan Center 703

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Construction III introduces the intermediate construction principles for pants and jackets. Tailoring, cut-and-sew knitwear, and creative draping techniques used on a variety of body types, and gender expressions are explored. The principles of proportion, balance, and fit as required for the achievement of well-made garments will also be studied. Pre req: minimum two Fashion construction classes: FASH 2001, FASH 2003, FASH 2020, FASH2022 or FASH2024

Prerequisites

Student must have completed either FASH 2900 or FASH 2003

Class Number

1524

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Design III teaches primary and secondary topical research, and in the context of a historical and cultural framework, students establish their personal point-of-view in fashion. Students will create in-depth research journals and develop a personal visualization style. Students will learn expansive fabric manipulations that lead to distinct styling and collection development to support capsule collection (three looks) development in intermediate studio. Particular attention is given to the use of color, texture, patterns, and design refinement.
Pre req: Student must have completed FASH 2900 or receive instructor permission. Instructor permission will be granted with the completion of any 2 of the following Fashion Design classes: FASH 2002, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2016, 2018, 2023, 3005, 3016, 3033. For Summer 2024, this includes a portfolio review as well.

Prerequisites

FASH 2900 or Instructor Permission

Class Number

1526

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 704

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Design III teaches primary and secondary topical research, and in the context of a historical and cultural framework, students establish their personal point-of-view in fashion. Students will create in-depth research journals and develop a personal visualization style. Students will learn expansive fabric manipulations that lead to distinct styling and collection development to support capsule collection (three looks) development in intermediate studio. Particular attention is given to the use of color, texture, patterns, and design refinement.
Pre req: Student must have completed FASH 2900 or receive instructor permission. Instructor permission will be granted with the completion of any 2 of the following Fashion Design classes: FASH 2002, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2016, 2018, 2023, 3005, 3016, 3033. For Summer 2024, this includes a portfolio review as well.

Prerequisites

FASH 2900 or Instructor Permission

Class Number

1523

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Location

Sullivan Center 705

Description

As a project-based course, Fashion Design III teaches primary and secondary topical research, and in the context of a historical and cultural framework, students establish their personal point-of-view in fashion. Students will create in-depth research journals and develop a personal visualization style. Students will learn expansive fabric manipulations that lead to distinct styling and collection development to support capsule collection (three looks) development in intermediate studio. Particular attention is given to the use of color, texture, patterns, and design refinement.
Pre req: Student must have completed FASH 2900 or receive instructor permission. Instructor permission will be granted with the completion of any 2 of the following Fashion Design classes: FASH 2002, 2005, 2006, 2010, 2016, 2018, 2023, 3005, 3016, 3033. For Summer 2024, this includes a portfolio review as well.

Prerequisites

FASH 2900 or Instructor Permission

Class Number

1525

Credits

3

Department

Fashion Design

Area of Study

Sustainable Design

Location

Sullivan Center 706, Sullivan Center 703

Upcoming Admissions Events

Dec07

Engage with key faculty members from our graduate departments, meet current graduate students, learn about our curricula and facilities, and inquire about admissions and financial aid. While not required, you may wish to bring your portfolio for review. Graduate campus tours will also be offered. 

Saturday, December 07 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. CST at MacLean Ballroom 112 S. Michigan Chicago, IL 60603

Take the Next Step

Graduate Admissions Events

Learn how to prepare a competitive application, meet with faculty and staff, and explore our programs and facilities. LEARN MORE

MFA in Fashion, Body and Garment Admissions Information

Visit the graduate admissions website or contact the graduate admissions office at 312.629.6100, 800.232.7242 or gradmiss@saic.edu.

Fashion, Body and Garment program inquiries: FashionGrad@saic.edu