Learn what it takes to become a fashion designer! You'll discover the basic elements of fashion sketching, illustration, construction, collection development, bead work and fabric selection. We'll examine work by famous designers, from Coco Chanel to Marc Jacobs, and dive into the exciting world of fashion shows by learning the steps a designer goes through before, during and after Fashion Week. We'll even take a field trip to visit a working designer, where you'll see the whole process in action and get to try your hand at a small sewing project! Students will leave the program with a sketchbook full of designs and inspiration, their own set of design tools, and a final 2D or 3D project. Note: Students need to bring their own 11 x 14 sketchbook and a beginner's set of either watercolor or gouache paints; in addition, bring a pair of loose or relaxed pants (not tight ones or skinny jeans) to cut off for the sewing project. Open to students ages 13-17.
Basic Sewing: Special Optional Extended Day – new!
Students who want to gain real sewing experience can choose the special extended day Sewing Option. You'll extend your camp day until 5:30pm each day while you learn the basics of sewing and complete several small projects, including a pillow, a clutch, and either a skirt or a shirt. Students must bring their own sewing machines, and the following materials:
- 1 cloth placemat OR cloth napkin for the clutch project
- 1.5 yards of lightweight cotton fabric for the skirt or shirt project
back to Summer Academy Course Index
82185
Day and Overnight Camp Options Available
8:30am-3:30pm
Two extended day options available until 5:30pm
This camp takes place each day at the Georgia Center, but students may travel around by foot or bus for specific activities, and by university vehicle for off-campus field trips. More detailed information will available closer to the camp start date.
Day Camp - $350
- Optional Extended Day - $35
- Special Extended Day Option – Basic Sewing Course - $115
Overnight Camp - $750
Partial financial assistance may be available for students who need it. To request assistance, please follow the directions listed in the Financial Aid Request form, which is located on the right hand side of this page. If you have any questions about the process, please call us at 706-542-3537 or email us at questions [at] georgiacenter [dot] uga [dot] edu.
Alexandra Parsons earned her B.F.A. in Fashion Design from the Savannah College of Art and Design, and studied Fabric Design at the University of Georgia. She now has her own clothing label, which is sold at a local vintage boutique and was recently featured on MTV. Alexandra previously held internships with Anne Barge, the prestigious Atlanta-based bridal designer, and JonValdi Couture (now Germán Valdivia) in New York City. While studying at SCAD-Atlanta, she founded a student fashion organization called Fashion Haus Atlanta, and served as a designer and organizer in several fashion shows. This is Alexandra's third year as a Summer Academy instructor.
You will need to bring your own 11"x14" sketchbook, a beginner's set of either watercolor or gouache paints, and as many interesting fabric swatches as you can find. In addition, please bring a pair of loose or relaxed pants you can cut off for the field trip sewing project (no tight or skinny jeans). All other supplies are provided at camp, though you are welcome bring any additional materials you would like to work with. A detailed list of supplies needed for your camp program will be emailed to you three weeks before camp begins.
