There are many fashion design programs to choose from in the United States. Each program has different things to offer prospective students. The following, in no particular order, are widely regarded as some of the best in the United States.
Parsons The New School For Design – New York City, New York
Parsons is often referred to as one of the most prestigious fashion schools in the world, and was the first school in the United States to offer programs in fashion design, advertising, interior design, and graphic design. Most of the members of the faculty at The New School are active in the industry, and many are also graduates of the school. Parsons has also partnered with many retailers and corporations to give students more hands-on experience and real-world critiques. Some of the most innovative designers around are graduates of Parsons, including Donna Karan, Tom Ford, Anna Sui, and Jenna Lyons.
Fashion Institute of Technology – New York City, New York
The fashion design program at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) is one of the oldest in the United States, having been around for over 65 years. Undergraduates at this school learn about both traditional design concepts and current/emerging trends in the industry, while rounding out their education with marketing, business, and several other degree pathways. FIT also offers masters and certificate programs. The school offers access to a number of prestigious internship opportunities and boasts a number of famous graduates, including Carolina Herrera, Calvin Klein, and Michael Kors.
Savannah College of Art and Design – Savannah, Georgia
The fashion design program at the Savannah College of Art and Design is one of the largest in the world. It offers majors in fashion, accessory design, luxury and fashion management, among several others. In recent years, the school partnered with ELLE Magazine to showcase the work of some of their best students at New York Fashion Week. The school also provides the opportunity to take part in a mentorship program with industry professionals such as Zac Posen.
Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising – Los Angeles, California
Located on the opposite coast, the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) offers courses in fashion, entertainment, beauty, and several other disciplines. Most of the programs are associate of arts programs, but it also offers a number of bachelor's programs. Outside of Los Angeles, FIDM has campuses in San Francisco, San Diego, and Orange County. Notable alumni of the school include Lauren Conrad, Karen Kane, and Leanne Marshall.
Each of these schools offers something special to their students, from a variety of disciplines, to hands on experience, to notable alumni and connections. All of these things are important to a career in fashion. Which school do you think comes out on top?
