Applying to Fashion Schools in 5 Easy Steps

You asked, we answered. In our most recent video, designer Lauren Zodel shares “Portfolio Tips for Fashion College Admissions.” The University of Fashion wants you to get noticed by the fashion schools of your choice and we are here to help.

Our Top 5 Fashion Design School Application Tips

  1. Get started early and stay on track during the application process. Visit our comprehensive List of Fashion Colleges and look for those that appeal to your interests and budget.
  2. Avoid common pitfalls such as using  fashion templates from books or the internet to create your portfolio.  Top fashion schools are on the hunt for original work and look for an applicant’s unique “sketching voice.”
  3. Write a winning entrance essay. Fashion colleges are looking for your philosophy, point of view and most importantly, what sets you apart from other designers.
  4. Know key designers, fashion terminology and historical movementsWell-versed college applicants stand out from the crowd – from Chanel to Dior, McQueen to Wang – we’ve got you covered.  Browse our Pinterest page – an easy way to stay up-to-date on current runway trends.
  5. Study examples of successful student portfolios and then create your own. Learn how to create a consistent inspiration, mood board and illustrations that will communicate your knowledge of design and construction effectively.  You may also use our video library to show your understanding of construction details such as darts or the front/back pant rise.  In “Portfolio Tips for Fashion College Admissions,” we share 3 successful student portfolios that will inspire and inform you as you prepare for the fashion school application process.
Moodboard Sample by Olivia Midgett

Moodboard Sample by Olivia Midgett

Illustration Sample by Ziyan Gong

Illustration Sample by Ziyan Gong

Knowledge of Construction Sample by Nancy Kwan

Knowledge of Construction Sample by Nancy Kwan

We wish you the very best of luck as you being to apply to the fashion college of your dreams, and we are here to support you throughout the process.

Now, start your research!

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Kara Laricks is a regular contributor to the University of Fashion. She’s also a New York based women's wear and accessories designer. As the first winner of NBC's Fashion Star, Kara has designed collections for H&M, Macy's and Saks Fifth Avenue. Her masculine meets feminine line, Kara Laricks, debuted at New York Fashion Week in 2012 and her S/S 2013 collection sold exclusively at Saks Fifth Avenue. Kara's designs have been featured on the Today Show and HBO's True Blood as well as covered in Women's Wear Daily and on Style.com. Kara holds Master's degrees in both Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Kansas and in Fashion Design from the Academy of Art in San Francisco. An educator turned designer, Kara is dedicated to supporting emerging designers and inspiring others to follow where dreams lead.