Skip top navigation Skip to main content
Lasell University
Lasell University

School of Fashion

Fashion Design and Production Major

fashion design degree female student working on a yellow dress on a dress form

Fashion Design and Production at Lasell

The Fashion Design and Production degree program provides the comprehensive and contemporary skills in garment design and product development processes.

The Fashion Design and Production major carefully balances inspired and creative design thinking with practical application. 

Fashion Design and Production Degree Features

  • In a senior Capstone project, students create an original, highly creative and professionally executed seven-piece collection. Collections are featured prominently in Runway, Lasell's annual large-scale professional fashion event that is open to the public.

  • Earn industry-recognized certificates as part of your coursework through HubSpot and Google Academy.

  • Gain professional experience through internships at places like New Balance, TESstylist, and NewStore among many others. 

  • Travel to NYC to visit fashion corporate offices and showrooms. Study abroad with international fashion institutions. Travel for Fashion in Paris.

  • Volunteer and work in local fashion events, like Boston Fashion Week. 

  • Learn from experienced faculty, opening doors to the industry.  

  • Partner with a company through the Senior Capstone to develop and pitch strategic business solutions to executives.  Partners have included Wayfair and Sperry. 

Fashion Students' Study Abroad Blogs

female student outside Florence grotto

 

A Semester Of Fashion In Florence

Following My Dream To Study In Italy

 

What You'll Learn

From your first day, you’ll take courses in your major and advance towards graduation with a yearly plan. Not sure what classes to take? We’ll help you create the perfect plan. 

Learning Outcomes

    • Comprehensive development of critical thinking skills evolved through a wide variety of design project challenges. 
    • Diverse foundation of applicable apparel design skills for a contemporary market using both technology and hands-on methods. 
    • Working knowledge of the production cycle and the challenges within the supply chain. 
    • Ability to thoughtfully analyze and critique work of their own and of others to contribute constructively to the iterative process of apparel design and collection development.  
    • Present ideas and work effectively in varied mediums, visually, verbally and in written form. 

    For a complete list of courses and learning outcomes, view the Academic Catalog >>


    Accelerated Master's Program

    Save time and money — earn your graduate degree in just 1 year with the Accelerated Master's program. Learn more and how to apply >>

    Undergraduate alumni return to Lasell for second (or third!) degrees 
    Read their stories >>

    Career Success with a Fashion Degree

    Lasell’s program in Fashion Design and Production prepares students for careers in CAD design,
    patternmaking, fashion illustration, product development, textile and print pattern design, and more.

    Our students have interned with:

    • Karhu 
    • NewStore  
    • TESstylist  
    • New Balance 
    • KB Fashion Productions
    • Wayfair
    • Marc Jacobs

    Our alumni work for:

    • The TJX Companies, Inc. 
    • Nic+Zoe 
    • PUMA Group 
    • Rue Gilt Groupe  
    • Converse 
    • Wolverine Worldwide 
    • Ann Inc. 

    Request more information about the Fashion Design and Production major:

     

    The Fashion program has pushed me to become a better person in my professional and personal life.

    Eryn Sheeley '24

    Fashion Merchandising and Management

    Read more about Eryn
    Eryn Sheeley

    ARTS126 - Fundamentals of Visual Art (KP)

    This course is an introduction to the basic principles and strategies for visual art-making and art appreciation, with an emphasis on developing an awareness and sensitivity to art as an integral part of one's life and as a way to complement one's aesthetic needs. This is a lecture course with studio art-making modules designed to complement visual material, critical essays, museum/gallery trips and impart basic skills in visual communication.

    ARTS207 - Figure Drawing

    The purpose of this course is to help students obtain the basic skill of drawing the human form, including anatomy, observation of the human form and fundamental exercises in gesture, contour, outline, and tonal modeling. $50 Student Fee for the models.

    FASD103 - Apparel Construction Techniques I

    Introducing techniques needed by the designer, the focus of this course is on developing basic skills applied to garment construction. Concentrating on industry techniques using woven fabrics, students gain insight into the components of a quality product. Formerly - Clothing Construction I

    FASD104 - Apparel Construction Techniques II

    This course expands student competencies to include the assembly of more complex garments, including the use of knits. Industry methods of construction and production are emphasized to facilitate independent analysis of the apparel assembly process. Prerequisite: FASD 103 or permission of Program Director or Associate Dean.

    FASD107 - Draping I - Fundamentals

    This course introduces students to the essential elements, theories, tools and techniques of fashion design and creation. Beginner design students will explore the development of foundation patterns while discovering the relationship of fabric grain to desired garment shapes. Manipulating fabric on three-dimensional forms will help students to understand harmony and balance while stimulating creativity. Muslin patterns will translate into a finished garment to be presented at the annual fashion show. Co-requisite: FASD 103

    FASD201 - Flat Pattern Design I

    This course emphasizes industry methods of producing patterns from basic slopers. Students learn to achieve different silhouettes for skirts, bodices, collars and sleeves. Pattern variations are achieved with dart manipulation, slash and spread, and pivoting techniques. Methods for grading from size to size and components of good fit are explored. This course is structured as a series of demonstrations and exercises and includes developing an original design from conception to fashion fabric. Prerequisite: FASD107 Co-requisite: FASD104

    FASD202 - Flat Pattern Design II

    In this course, students draft basic slopers for the bodice, sleeve, torso, jacket torso, jacket sleeve, and trouser. Advanced pattern development methods for different pant designs and notch collar jackets are introduced. Students develop unstructured jackets that are unlined and professionally finished and fly front pants. Fitting with live models is emphasized. Original designs are developed to foster creative and technical competency. Pre-requiste: FASD201

    FASD205 - Digital Design for Apparel

    This course introduces students to software that is used prominently in the apparel design and production industry. Projects include enhancing fashion illustrations, technical drawing, textile design and colorization, and editing and integrating photographic images. Skills developed in this course are necessary for communicating design ideas and lay the foundation for industry-specific software covered later in the curriculum. Prerequisite: FASD215, can be taken concurrenlty

    FASD206 - Cut & Sew Stretch Knits

    The creation of garments using knit fabric requires a distinctive skill set for designers. This course will engage students with the variety of knowledge and applications necessary in creating and manufacturing stretch fabric designs. Students will develop foundation patterns and learn appropriate stitching and trimming techniques for 2-way and 4-way stretch fabrics while preparing tech packs for industry production. Final projects will be presented at the annual fashion showcase. Prerequisite: FASD 202

    FASD214 - Pattern Grading & Fit Techniques

    Two vital skills for apparel designers to master are grading, (the systematic resizing of patterns,) and applying theories of basic fit to pattern drafting. In this course, students will learn manual techniques of grading from the master-size in order to create “nested sets” of basic slopers. This skill allows creation of garments in a wide variety of sizes while protecting proportion and balance. Additionally, each module will survey common fit issues that occur when creating patterns for both individuals and mass markets. Careful measuring, terminology, and contemporary methods of grade rule creation will be explored. Pre-requisite: FASD 202

    FASD215 - Fashion Illustration

    Emphasizing techniques essential to creating two-dimensional fashion design renderings, this course develops skills related to drawing the fashion figure, illustrating original design ideas through various media, rendering textiles and developing technical drawings. The elements and principles of design are applied to fashion illustration through exercises that explore the various components of apparel development: study of human anatomy, garment details, fabrics, textures, etc. Prerequisites: ARTS207

    FASD220 - Fashion Design Concepts

    In this course, fashion design ability is developed by exploring students’ creativity. An understanding of fashion design as a three-dimensional art form is cultivated in order to gain knowledge of various styles and details which are utilized to design garments for various markets. Students develop a critical eye based on aesthetic and market-related evaluation principles. Prerequisites: FASD 215 & FASH 210.

    FASD301 - Professional Presentation Methods

    This course develops industry-based visual presentation methods, using comtemporary technology. Collection development is explored. Outcomes of the course include digital portfolios and website design, creating a key component to successful employment in the fashion industry. Resume, cover letter and interviewing skills are developed in preparation for internship. Prerequisites: FASD205, FASD220.

    FASD307 - Flat Pattern III - Tailoring

    Tailoring is the ultimate shape maker in women and men’s coats, jackets and suits. This course is designed to challenge the student to explore new drafting techniques while developing critical fitting proficiencies and advancing construction methods. Students will design, draft and execute a professional hand tailored, lined jacket and accompanying garment in preparation for presentation at our annual fashion showcase. Prerequisite: FASD 104 & FASD 202

    FASD313 - Draping II - Couture

    This course will expand skills acquired in Draping I by focusing on advanced techniques, French draping methodology, and intricate garment production. Extensive written research will provide a foundation for students to engage with a high level of creativity in the effort to produce unique, custom, professional looks while applying couture construction practices.Prerequisite: FASD 202

    FASD322 - Sweater Knit Design

    This course introduces the principal elements, theories and techniques of design and construction for sweater knit garments. Students will learn how to knit, create knitting plans, and develop hand knit garments. Advanced knowledge of construction methodologies using finishes, trims, and notions that are appropriate for sweater knit design will be explored. The class will work as a design team to produce a collection of cohesive knit ensembles, while each student has the opportunity to channel unique design themes and designer inspirations. Professional knitting plans and tech packs will translate to finished garments to be presented at the annual fashion show. Prerequisite: FASD 206 & FASD220

    FASD327 - Market of Specialization

    Before beginning the design process, students in this course will explore the history of a chosen market, examining how it has evolved and what makes it unique from other markets. Research will focus on evolution and innovation of the chosen market. Design and construction of one original, complete look from chosen market will be critiqued in the context of a group collection. (Pre-Req FASD 202, 220)

    FASD409 - Fashion Design Capstone: Collection Development

    Designed to reflect industry practice, students are required to develop a collection of 10 looks that will be completed in FASD 410 (Senior Thesis Production). Each student refines their distinct design style and develops a personal brand. Design development through trend analysis, fabric sourcing, pattern drafting, and apparel construction, in conjunction with research, writing, critical thinking, independent time management and visual communication complete Part I of this capstone experience. Prerequisites: FASD327, Senior standing in Design Program. Corequisite FASD465.

    FASD410 - Fashion Design Capstone: Collection Production

    This course continues the industry-based design development process. In Part II of the capstone, students finalize an 8-look collection that is reviewed by peers, faculty and industry professionals. Each designer plans and executes a segment of the spring fashion show featuring his or her collection, and updates their portfolio preparing for a chosen fashion industry career path. Prerequisite: FASD409. Corequisite: FASD466.

    FASD465 - Cad I- Lectra

    This course focuses on the use of technology in the apparel industry examining its role in the global apparel complex. Students apply their hands-on technical skills to state-of-the-art industry programs. Using the LECTRA system of software, students will digitize, manipulate, grade, and nest patterns on MODARIS, learn to create markers on DIAMINO and plot using JUSTPRINT and ALYS applications. Prerequisites: FASD 327, Senior standing in Design Program. Corequisite: FASD 409.

    FASD466 - Cad II- Lectra

    In the context of mass manufacturing, tech packs for different apparel types are developed using Lectra Kaledo software and Excel. Discussion about manufacturing construction, trim specifications and size grading are covered. Students then integrate their work into their professional working portfolio. Prerequisite: FASD465. Corequisite: FASD410.

    FASH200 - Fashion History I:Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution

    Fashion History I: Imperial Societies to Industrial Revolution surveys the history of prevailing dress and material culture from Ancient Egypt into the nineteenth century, expanding upon a general understanding of shifting modes to examine the symbolism of fashion from extensive perspectives. Students develop a context for fashion and its relation to aesthetic expression and function within various societies over time. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students examine a range of scholarly resources that pertain to the field, including The Lasell Fashion Collection. This is a writing intensive course. Prerequisite: WRT102 or Permission of Instructor

    FASH210 - Textiles

    Textiles introduces the study of textiles through exploration of the production of fibers and methods of creating fabrics. Students learn to identify fiber content, properties and various types of weaving and knitting applications. Other topics include the study of fiber characteristics, quality and care of fabric finishes, and a practical assessment of fabrics in relationship to particular end-uses.

    FASH303 - Fashion History II:Modernity to Globalization

    Modernity to Globalization explores the history of fashion as it moves from the nineteenth century into a new era, examining the aesthetic and sociocultural forces that have influenced the development of styles from modernity to globalization. Students use skills in critical thinking to understand fashion as an art form, a commodity, and a symbol of cultural and personal expression. Students explore how contemporary designers draw from and reinterpret fashions from across the twentieth century. Prerequisite: WRT102

    FASH309 - Apparel Product Development

    Apparel Product Development explores the global product development matrix in the apparel industry. Students work together in teams to explore the product lifecycle in terms of sourcing and production. Topics covered include: supply chain management, design calendars, apparel product price points, brand differentiation, product distribution channels, trend forecasting services, color management, specification and technical package development, sizing, quality control, ethics, and evaluation of the global production environment. Prerequisite: FASH211 or FASD220

    FASH415 - Fashion Industry Internship Seminar

    Fashion Industry Internship Seminar is four-credits and includes a field placement and course. Fashion industry exposure and real-world experience is paramount to the fashion student. Supported with resources, students explore the job market to identify challenging, value-adding internship positions during which they gain practical, hands-on industry experience. On-the-job industry exposure is an opportunity to synthesize and apply concepts, theories, and techniques previously learned, both leveraging and adding to industry skill sets and knowledge. Internship experience and seminar learning outcomes include: (1) exposure to and strengthened command of industry dynamics and fashion business operations, (2) first-hand experience in the professional working environment, (3) acquisition of professional skills required for industry and career readiness, and (4) resume and professional network growth. Students complete self-reflection and critical analysis of the internship organization and experience, as well as receive feedback and evaluation from the internship site supervisor. A minimum of 150 hours of supervised onsite work is required and should be in an area of the industry aligned with students’ career objectives. Internship field placement is subject to the approval of the Internship Coordinator and the Lasell University application process and requirements outlined therein. Prerequisites: FASH219 & FASH207 or FASD220

    MATH108X - Mathematics of Design

    This course explores elements of mathematics within the design field from the incorporation of algebra to concepts of geometry. Students will have the opportunity to integrate numerical fluency, proportional reasoning, data interpretation, algebraic reasoning and communicating quantitative information through group problem solving and class discussions. Topics include pattern drafting, layouts cutting, revenue, cost, and profit modeling, measurement systems, Euclidean geometry, and spatial reasoning.