Here at the British Academy of Fashion Design, we take profound pride in holding ourselves, and our students, to the highest academic and creative standards. Our alumni have gone on to achieve great levels of success across the fashion design field.
That success started at a time when many enrol in the academy with a sense of nervous trepidation. There are new-kid nerves or imposter syndrome anxiety, but this is nothing new. Most people feel awkward when trying something new, especially when they know little or nothing about the subject. But nobody starts as a pro and any designers, artists or any person we have ever admired, had to start from somewhere.
The beauty of learning is that there are no entry level expectations, everyone who enrols in a course has done so for the same purpose, to learn something new. And meeting other students, other like-minded newbies who share the same fears and the same excitement, contains a powerful tonic to those unsettling feelings. With the guidance of a professional and the camaraderie of fellow students, it doesn’t take long for lessons to become knowledge and those nerves to turn to confidence.
“Trust the journey! As you progress, your confidence and skills will grow in ways you don’t expect. Walk into this new adventure boldly and be ready to discover what you’re capable of. Your passion will lead you forward.” Patricia Gomes, Fashion Design tutor.
Example of Student Work by Tom F.
Fashion & Textile Design
When it comes to Fashion & Textile Design, the most fascinating, and oftentimes surprising insight into the field is that it is a unique marriage of creativity and problem solving. A sketch plan is sometimes referred to as “the problem”, and a client brief can be peppered with demands and restrictions. As the name suggests, designers must work within the confines of a fashion & textile space but from those perceived confines, great imagination is born. It is in fact by introducing levels of limitation that the most artistically innovative work emerges.
Imagine you are told to design anything – anything at all? Okay, now imagine you are asked to design a men’s jacket for Spring/Summer. “Design anything” can often result only in a blank stare, an inability to land on one idea. The so-called limitations of a jacket design on the other hand, instantly stir up imaginings of fabrics, colour, collars and length. Rather than see it as a restriction, see it as context, and when given a context, the ideas flow.
Once the idea arrives and the tone is set, then a designer must make the client understand their vision. This is a visual form of language that surpasses words. To share the look, feel and shape of a design, designers use mood boards, sketches, CAD designs and different kinds of research. All of which aims to communicate what the designer sees.
Example of Student Work by Stefana B.
Do You Have to Be Good At Drawing?
There is a common misconception that in order to be a fashion & textile designer you must be good at drawing. Let’s dispel that myth right now! Drawing is indeed a talent, but it is also a skill, and skills can be taught.
Drawing with a pencil or pen is also a mindful exercise and can be a very pleasant way to spend time with your ideas, the slow purposeful nature of sketching out your vision often leads to further creativity and even expansion on your design. By the time you finish your drawing, you have thought of additional ways to express your concept. There are also numerous digital drawing options that help designers hone and perfect their designs.
Example of Student Work by Alexandra T.
The Design Cycle
Like all artforms, behind every design is a narrative, and a designer will always leave a visual trail along which the tale will unfold. The finished product is the end of a story, as well as the beginning. A complete design is the landing place where the designer has arrived after a long and winding road. But it is also the same place the user will begin their new experience. Design cycle is more than the beginning, middle and end of a design; it is the cyclical nature of spaces we occupy. A new dress, to one person, is yesterday’s work of the designer.
In the same way there is a design cycle, the images on this page show the cycle of how our students progress during our different fashion & textile design programmes.
Example of Student Work by Mathew C.
Study Fashion Design at the British Academy of Fashion Design
Our courses will guide students through an actual design cycle where everything from an initial nugget of an idea will evolve into a fully realised design. From sketches, sewing, patterns, fabrics, fabric manipulation and a 3D self-built mini-mannequin, the whole life of a design is covered. And while there are many fun and creative aspects to fashion & textiles, the most important thing that must remain at the forefront of every designer’s mind is that designs are for people.
The needs and lifestyle of the people who will wear your clothing or fabric are paramount. There is comfort, functionality, and of course style. Everything must work in harmony and by creating such designs, you actually have the power to improve the quality of life of those around you.
To see how this journey comes to life, explore our student gallery and discover projects that showcase the creativity, craft and professional ambition developed throughout the course.
Are you interested in learning more about how design can improve the quality of life of those around you? For more information on our courses, please email [email protected] or call 020 3949 7727 - our course advisors are at the ready to answer any questions, no matter how big or small.
Example of Student Work by Eduarda S.
FAQs
Do I Need Any Previous Experience to Start a Fashion Design Course?
No. Our courses are designed for beginners as well as those with some experience. You’ll be guided step by step through the fundamentals and supported as your confidence grows.
What Materials or Tools Will I Need for the Course?
You’ll receive a recommended materials list before the course begins. Most items are easy to source, and our team can advise on cost-effective options for beginners.
How Much Time Should I Expect to Commit Each Week?
Study time varies by course, but most students dedicate a few hours weekly to lessons, sketching, research or project work. You can study at your own pace.
What Is a Design Cycle?
A design cycle is the step-by-step process designers use to develop an idea into a finished, functional design.
Will I Graduate With a Portfolio?
Yes, you will graduate with a portfolio. By completing the design cycle and producing multiple projects, you’ll finish with portfolio-ready work that demonstrates your skills to future employers or clients.
