Fashion Design Schools: The Birthplaces Of Couture
April 21, 2011It goes without saying that the fashion industry is one of the biggest, most revenue-generating industries in the world. Its far-reaching influence, changes and effects the way clothing is worn, recognized and accessorized from the catwalks of Paris to mass market retail stores in central cities around the world. This influence cannot be taken for granted and fashion design schools are where talented artisans are moulded to become distinguished and acclaimed designers.
The establishment of the formal design industry known today, found its beginnings in the 19th century – not too long ago, considering its flourishing and rapidly progressive nature. Charles Frederick Worth is the designer whose name would later become synonymous with the origins of haute couture clothing, when he pioneered the practice of sewing his label onto the garments he produced. Thereafter, style houses hired sketchers and artists to design and illustrate the dimensions and detail of the final products and these would be presented to prospective clients instead of actual sample products.
Just as with every consumer product, fashion also has its own mass market as seen in clothing franchises and popular outlets. The designers who work for this mass market are responsible for designing ready-to-wear clothes in all the standard sizes and in large numbers. They base the appearance and style of the garments on worldwide high-fashion trends which are simplified to create affordable clothing made from inexpensive materials which can be manufactured most commonly by sewing machinery.
Designers employed by more upmarket, high-end boutiques produce garments which are tailor-made from more expensive fabrics and are cut to meet specific size requirements. These boutiques normally create only one or two in each size, making these pieces more exclusive. These outlets usually create seasonal lines which are not re-produced, are limited in their availability and are generally better-quality than mass produced pieces.
Haute couture (meaning, high-fashion, in French) designers create custom-fitting, tailor-made pieces for specific individuals who commission them for the creation of very specific, one-off garments. No expense is spared on the fabric or necessary embellishments or accessories. What matters is that ii fits the client perfectly, is the exact color that was requested and that it meets with the styling demands of the client. This involves a painstaking amount of arduous hard work and produces final garments which are of the highest quality of material and design.
Various artistic colleges and learning institution provide degrees in this field for aspiring designers wishing to transform their talents into viable and successful career paths. While studying, they will be equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to turn static ideas into character-filled pieces which bare their trademark. They will also be trained on how to work according to the specifics of briefs or client orders.
At the creative college, they may also be taught skills like pattern-making as well as how to manufacture their final products, however, course curricula varies according to the respective institution. Generally, it is the place where they receive formal training and build the necessary links for worthwhile and successful apprenticeships.
Although students may vie for the opportunity to attend schools in the fashion capitals; Paris, Tokyo, Milan, New York and London, fashion design schools are prevalent throughout the world. They are the proverbial melting pots of talent and creativity; the basis upon which this booming industry is built.
Ready to channel your inner creativity? Enroll in of the many fashion schools for fashion courses. There are many fine art schools in Canada to choose from. The career you dreamed of may be just around the corner.
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