Diploma in Fashion Design & Custom Made Tailoring

Blended learning approach:
This program is accessible online via our sophisticated blended learning model. Our approach integrates online educational resources, including instructional videos and interactive assignments, with consistent, intensive one-on-one coaching sessions. Each module is available on our digital platform, accompanied by the requisite learning materials for download. This ensures that our students are equipped with all necessary tools for success in their studies.

The Diploma in Fashion Design & Custom-Made Tailoring is meticulously crafted to impart a comprehensive understanding of the essential skills necessary for fashion manufacturing and the creation of fashion designs, while offering a specialization in a chosen field. This program not only broadens the student’s knowledge across various subjects within fashion design and production but also enables specialization in specific areas of interest. It significantly enhances the student’s practical skills in custom-made pattern making and tailoring, while laying a solid foundation in the basics of fashion drawing. The curriculum is enriched with intensive coaching sessions, regular interaction with industry professionals through training sessions, practical training videos, industrial visits, and expert consultations.

This part-time, online Diploma program spans nine months and is designed to accommodate students with no prior experience in fashion design, tailoring, or pattern making. Through this intensive diploma, students will acquire all the necessary skills to emerge as specialists in their respective areas.

The program concludes with the submission, following a nine-month intensive training course, of a tailor-made collection comprising five self-sewn garments, complete with technical drawings and pattern-making documentation. These are presented in the form of a PDF presentation and workbook, along with a live online demonstration to industry experts. Students who successfully complete the program are awarded the Diploma of Fashion & Custom-Made Tailoring from the Swiss School of Management.

After completing the intensive blended training course conducted by our industry experts, students will have the opportunity to participate in a 2-month live online Specialization Course focusing on Luxury Fashion Event Management and Fashion Design Collection Development. This course is offered by UniFash experts in Luxury Collection Development and Event Management. Participants will also have the chance to showcase one of their final outfits at an international fashion show held in prestigious locations such as Milan, Rome, Paris, or Dubai, providing them with a platform to present their work on a global stage.

The UniFash Fashion School employs an innovative approach to team-based online learning, firmly believing that this method reflects the collaborative and dynamic nature of today’s professional environments. The diploma, awarded by the Swiss School of Management, paves the way for international career opportunities by equipping students for the global fashion industry, with a particular emphasis on the luxury sector.

This Diploma Course in Fashion Design & Custom Made Tailoring prepares students for a successful career in the fashion industry, especially in the luxury segment.

Participants will master tailoring and custom pattern design skills, enabling them to create and produce bespoke, high-quality garments. They will develop a comprehensive understanding of aesthetics and design principles, empowering them to conceptualize and execute innovative and visually appealing fashion collections.

Additionally, students will acquire advanced technical knowledge in handling high-quality materials and precision techniques essential for the production of luxury fashion items. Fundamentals of fashion drawing and material science are also covered, enhancing their design and production capabilities. Graduates will be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the global fashion business, particularly in the luxury sector, with the international recognition of the diploma enhancing their market value and competitiveness.

ISLO1: Mastery of Tailoring and Custom-Made Pattern design – Students will achieve proficiency in both basic and advanced techniques of bespoke tailoring and individual pattern design, enabling the creation and production of custom-made, high-quality garments.
ISLO2: Enhancement of Creative and Design Skills – Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of aesthetics and design principles, empowering them to conceptualize and execute innovative and visually appealing fashion collections.
ISLO3: Acquisition of Advanced Technical Skills – Students will gain advanced technical knowledge in handling high-quality materials and employing precision techniques, essential for the production of luxury fashion items.
ISLO4: Application of Fashion Drawing and Material Science – Students will learn the fundamentals of fashion drawing and fabric and material science, applying this knowledge to enhance their design and production capabilities.
ISLO5: Preparation for the Fashion Industry – Through completing the diploma, students will be prepared for a successful career in the fashion industry, equipped with the skills necessary to design and produce innovative custom-made fashion collections.
ISLO6: Readiness for International Fashion Business – Graduates will be well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities in the global fashion business, particularly in the luxury sector, with the international recognition of the diploma enhancing their market value and competitiveness.

Entry Criteria
Students interested in enrolling in the Diploma program in Fashion & Custom-Made Tailoring must have reached the age of 16 years and possess a strong proficiency in English to comprehend course instructions effectively. No prior knowledge in sewing techniques, fashion design, or pattern making is required.

Overview
The Diploma in Fashion Design & Custom-Made Tailoring encompasses a comprehensive curriculum spanning a period of nine months.
The initial four months of the Diploma in Fashion Design & Custom-Made Tailoring cover the basic and foundational aspects of creating a custom-made collection for women’s wear. This period is dedicated to introducing students to the essential concepts and techniques necessary for bespoke fashion design.
In the subsequent five months, the program delves into more in-depth and complex topics related to custom-made pattern creation and the sewing of complex garments. This phase is designed to ensure that students gain and maintain a competitive edge in the fashion industry by mastering advanced skills.
Completing this nine-month diploma offers students the opportunity to advance to a higher level with a two-month Specialization Course in Luxury Fashion Design Collection Development & Event Management. Here, students have the chance to participate with their masterpieces under the intensive supervision of industry experts at an international fashion show in Paris, Milan, Rome, or Dubai.

Course descriptions:

Course Title
BMS 01 Essential Materials for Sewing and Pattern Technology & Material Science
Course Description:
This comprehensive course is meticulously crafted to furnish students with an in-depth understanding of the indispensable materials and tools required for professional sewing tasks, as well as the proficiency to employ these resources effectively. Specifically designed to bolster expertise in both sewing and pattern making, this module spans a broad spectrum of essential instruments, ranging from fundamental sewing implements to sophisticated techniques in patternmaking and the production of custom-made tailoring. This ensures students are thoroughly prepared to tackle a diverse array of design and manufacturing challenges within the fashion industry.
Included in the program is a detailed PDF document that elaborates on the most critical fabrics and materials, their processing, and composition. This invaluable resource serves as a foundational guide for students, providing them with the necessary knowledge to make informed decisions regarding material selection and application.
Furthermore, the program encompasses a comprehensive list of vital fashion terminology, presented in both English and German. This dual-language glossary not only enhances students’ technical vocabulary but also equips them with the linguistic versatility needed to navigate the global fashion landscape effectively.
 
Course Title
BMT 02 Measuring Techniques for Tailors: Mastering Personal and Client Measurements
Course Description:
This specialized module is designed to equip aspiring tailors and fashion designers with the precise skills necessary for taking accurate body measurements, both for themselves and for clients. It emphasizes the importance of precision and professionalism in measurement techniques, which are fundamental to the creation of well-fitting garments. Through detailed instruction and hands-on practice, students will learn how to conduct measurements in a manner that ensures both comfort and accuracy, setting the groundwork for bespoke tailoring and custom-made garment production.

Course Title
BFP 03 Pattern Making Introduction – Sample Pattern Techniques
The fundamental knowledge of pattern making is introduced in that course module through a straight skirt with one dart in the front and two darts in the back. This approach allows for the differentiation of various sizes and proportions.

Course Title
BCF 04 Pre-Cutting Essentials: Maximizing Fabric Use and Precision
Course Description:
This comprehensive course delves into the critical knowledge and strategies essential for the fabric cutting process, targeting the achievement of superior outcomes. It emphasizes the fundamental steps and considerations imperative for minimizing waste and enhancing accuracy in fabric cutting. Designed specifically for fashion designers, tailors, and those involved in garment construction, this program integrates theoretical insights with practical exercises. It aims to guide participants through the preparatory stages that precede fabric cutting, ensuring a thorough understanding of the process. Additionally, the program covers an extensive range of terminology related to pattern cutting, equipping participants with the professional vocabulary needed to navigate the fashion industry effectively.

Course Title
BPP 05 Pencil Skirt Pattern Making – Production Techniques
Course Description:
This level course is designed to provide comprehensive training in the design and creation of a model pencil skirt, covering all aspects from pattern making to the final sewing techniques. Initially, students will learn made-to-measure pattern making techniques for a tight pencil skirt, exploring different variations and adjustments to achieve a custom fit. The program then progresses to teaching students how to cut the fabric according to their unique pattern, emphasizing precision for a perfect fit. Finally, participants will deepen their knowledge of various sewing techniques, learning how to professionally and durably construct the pencil skirt. Throughout this course, emphasis is placed on achieving a high level of craftsmanship and understanding the nuances of creating a garment that is both aesthetically pleasing and well-fitted.

Course Title
BCP 06 Circle Skirt Pattern Making – Production Techniques
Course Description:
This course segment focuses on the design, cutting, and assembly of model circle skirts, immersing students in the techniques required to create these elegant and flowing garments. Starting with patternmaking, students will explore various cutting techniques to achieve the distinctive swing of circle skirts. They will learn how to tailor the pattern to ensure a precise fit, moving on to the cutting phase where accuracy and technique are paramount for shaping the fabric correctly. The final part of the course is dedicated to sewing, where participants will master the assembly of the circle skirt, applying different sewing methods to ensure a professional finish. This comprehensive approach ensures students not only understand each step of the process but also how they interconnect to produce a garment that combines beauty with precision.
 
Course title: 
BFD 07 Fashion Drawing
Course Description:
This course provides the fundamental skills essential for aspiring fashion designers and creative minds. It is structured around seven key areas to develop your capabilities in fashion drawing, ultimately enabling you to bring your designs to life with precision and creativity.
Starting with the basics, you will learn to construct the figurine, the cornerstone of fashion illustration, mastering realistic body proportions. The journey continues with mastering the art of proportions, ensuring your drawings reflect balanced and accurate body ratios, infusing your models with character and style. A deep dive into facial features allows you to add expression and personality to your designs, covering techniques for sketching eyes, lips, nose, and hair with realism.
The course progresses to form and technical garment representation, teaching you to depict various fabrics and accurately sketch clothing, shoes, and accessories, including the intricacies of folds and detailing. Shading techniques are introduced to add volume and depth, creating a three-dimensional effect that brings your fashion designs to life. Coloring skills are expanded upon, guiding you in the selection of color palettes that best convey the mood and style of your creations.
Finally, the course culminates with technical drawing skills, vital for professionally presenting your designs to clients. You’ll learn the importance of scale, proportions, and precision in creating technical drawings that accurately document your ideas, alongside basics of pattern making to prepare your designs for production. This comprehensive course not only equips you with the necessary tools to unleash your creativity but also prepares you to become the designer of your own fashion collection, with the confidence to present your work professionally.

Course title:
AMT 01 Advanced Measuring Techniques for Skirts and Pants
Course Description:
This course is intricately designed to equip students with the skills to take precise measurements for creating perfectly fitting skirts and pants, suitable for both personal use and client services. It delves into the detailed process of accurately measuring the human body, highlighting essential points that are crucial for the custom design of lower body garments. Throughout this course, participants will be exposed to a broad spectrum of measuring techniques, ranging from fundamental to sophisticated methods, to ensure comprehensive training in garment fitting. A significant focus is placed on the critical role of precise measurements in achieving the optimal fit and comfort, as well as the ability to adjust patterns to accommodate various body shapes and sizes. By the end of the program, students will not only have enhanced their technical proficiency in garment creation but also gained a deeper insight into the custom tailoring process, setting a solid foundation for their future endeavors in the fashion industry.
 
Course title:
AWP 02 Expertise in Wrap Skirt Production
Course Description:
This advanced course embarks on a comprehensive journey into the design, cutting, and sewing of model wrap skirts, providing an in-depth exploration of the versatile patterning techniques essential for creating this garment. Participants will start by discovering the advanced techniques of wrap skirt patterning, learning how to develop various styles and make adjustments to cater to different body types and preferences. This knowledge sets the foundation for the next stage, where emphasis is placed on the cutting process. Students will acquire skills in precisely cutting fabric according to their custom patterns, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless drape. The final stage of the program is dedicated to sewing techniques, where learners will deepen their understanding of the assembly process. They will be guided through the methods required to sew wrap skirts professionally, focusing on durability and finishing touches that elevate the overall quality of the garment. By the end of this program, students will have mastered the art of wrap skirt creation, from initial design to the final stitch, ready to produce garments that blend functionality with fashion.

Course title:
APC 03 Expertise in Panel Skirt Construction
Course Description:
This program is meticulously curated to guide students through the specialized process of designing, cutting, and sewing model panel skirts. The journey begins with an introduction to the cutting techniques specific to panel skirts, where students will explore a variety of design possibilities and learn how to make precise adjustments for customized creations. This fundamental knowledge paves the way to the next phase, focusing on the accurate cutting of fabric based on the developed pattern. Students will be taught how to ensure that each panel is cut to perfection, which is crucial for achieving the desired fit and silhouette.
As the course progresses, the emphasis shifts to sewing techniques. Participants will refine their sewing skills, learning advanced methods to assemble the panel skirt with professionalism and finesse. The course covers everything from joining panels seamlessly to apply finishing touches that enhance the garment’s durability and aesthetic appeal. By the conclusion of the program, students will have attained a high level of proficiency in panel skirt construction, equipped with the skills to produce garments that are not only well-fitted but also beautifully crafted, ready to meet the standards of the fashion industry.
  
Course title:
ATC 04 Expertise in Business Trouser Construction
Course Description:
This course offers an in-depth exploration into the art of crafting professional business trousers, from the initial pattern creation to the final sewing process. Participants will begin by expanding their knowledge in the cutting technique specific to business trousers.
This includes learning how to develop precise and well-fitting patterns that cater to various body types and professional standards. Emphasis will be placed on mastering the art of creating a pattern that ensures a perfect fit, setting a solid foundation for the subsequent cutting phase.
Following pattern development, the course delves into the critical process of cutting the fabric according to the bespoke pattern. Students will be instructed on how to meticulously cut fabric to mirror the precision of their patterns, a crucial step in achieving trousers that fit flawlessly and conform seamlessly to the wearer’s form.
The final segment of the program is dedicated to sewing techniques. Here, participants will deepen their understanding of professional sewing methods, focusing on techniques that contribute to crafting business trousers that not only fit well but also exude elegance and sophistication. This includes learning about different types of seams, hems, and finishes that are essential for producing high-quality business attire. Upon completion of this program, students will possess a comprehensive skill set in the creation of business trousers, enabling them to produce garments that meet the high expectations of the modern professional wardrobe.

This course contains 2 exams: a midterm exam after the 4-month beginner level and a final exam after 9 months, including the advanced level of the Diploma Program.
For the midterm exam after 4 months, the student will present their work process and notes on pattern making and images of the sewing process of the 2 completed outfits from the beginner level in a digital PDF workbook. The clothing pieces will be a custom-made pencil skirt and a custom-made circle skirt.
For the final exam, there will be an oral presentation of all 5 self-sewn outfits and custom-made patterns. Additionally, a workbook documenting the process of sewing and pattern-making for two garments from the advanced level course, such as a business trouser and a 6-panel skirt, will be required.
 
Criteria for the midterm exam content:
Submission of the Production Workbook
The PDF workbook should contain a minimum of 40 slides with detailed photographs and notes on the creation of custom-made patterns for a pencil skirt and a circle skirt. It should also include a detailed description with notes and photos of the sewing process of these two garments. The notes can be photographed handwritten notes as well.               
 
The presentation should conclude with photographs of the final circle skirt and the pencil skirt, both from the front and back, displayed on a mannequin, clearly visible, and marking the end of the PDF presentation. The two garments must be the same garments that will be shown as part of the collection for the final oral presentation. The PDF presentation must include at least two images where the student is personally seen in the production of patternmaking as well as tailoring process.
The presentation must be submitted after 4 months of course entry to info@unifash.eu with the student’s Name, Course Program, a Picture of the Student, Date of Entry, and Date of Submission, along with the student’s Original Signature.

Criteria for the Final Exam:
Submission of the Production Workbook
Students will submit their final workbook, which includes 30 slides detailing the process of creating business trousers as well as the custom-made 6-panel skirt, with images of pattern-making and construction. Notes on tailoring, which can also be handwritten, should be clearly visible in the PowerPoint presentation. The presentation must contain at least 2 images of the student demonstrating their involvement in the pattern-making and tailoring processes. The fabrics used for the manufacturing process as well as the outfits presented in the workbook must match the outfits showcased in the oral presentation during the Final Exam.
The presentation must be submitted after 9 months of course entry to info@unifash.eu with the Student’s Name, Course Program, a Picture of the Student, Date of Entry, and Date of Submission, along with the student’s Original Signature.

Oral presentation:
For the final exam, there will be an oral presentation of all five self-sewn outfits and custom-made patterns. The student will introduce themselves, mentioning their name and showing their identity card to the examiner Iris Peitzmeier of UniFash. Afterwards, they will present all five custom-made garments along with the custom-made patterns developed over the entire 9-month course. The outfits presented must align with the outfits submitted in the workbooks.
The student will earn the diploma in Fashion Design and Custom-Made Tailoring by submitting the required workbooks and completing the oral presentation, fulfilling the requirements given in the assignment within the specified timeframe.

Cost of the program

Application fee € 200 – due immediately
Enrollment fee € 3050 – due immediately after acceptance
First installation € 3400 – due after two months
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Total tuition fees € 6.650 Euros

The above tuition fees are for the programs in Europe. At UniFash & Swiss School of Management we firmly believe in equity by giving people around the globe the same opportunities to earn a UniFash/SSM diploma. For students applying from areas of the planet with unequal social or economic conditions, we offer different rates. Please contact our in Residence Programs Directors UAE, GCC, & Cairo as tuition fees vary.