DESN 1150 — 3 UNITS FASHION SKETCHING FOR DESIGN I

Students learn the proportions and techniques for sketching the nine-head figure.

DESN 1250 — 3 UNITS INDUSTRY SEWING

This course introduces students to industry sewing techniques with an emphasis on operating the power sewing machine. Students produce a completed garment by applying all of the techniques taught in the course.

DESN 1420 — 3 UNITS APPLIED DRAPING TECHNIQUES

Students apply the techniques learned in DESN 1220 Basic Draping Techniques to create garments using various fabrics. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisites: DESN 1250

DESN 1550 — 3 UNITS FASHION SKETCHING FOR DESIGN II

This course emphasizes the perfection of fashion figure poses, the accurate illustration of garments, and the development of the students' own sketching style. Students learn to render, using colored pencil, markers, and pen. Prerequisite: DESN 1150

DESN 1760 — 3 UNITS PATTERN DRAFTING I 

Students develop an understanding of how to use the basic block in constructing muslin samples. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: DESN 1420

DESN 1850 — 3 UNITS THE BUSINESS OF FASHION In surveying the major bu

In surveying the major business components of the textile and fashion apparel industries, this course defines the role of materials, designers, producers, and retailers in the creative and business cycles. Prerequisite: TSCI 1800

DESN 2160 — 3 UNITS PATTERN DRAFTING II

Students create flat patterns from sketches and produce completed garments with an emphasis on fit. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: DESN 1760

DESN 2280 — 3 UNITS CREATIVE DESIGN APPLICATIONS

Students apply basic elements of design and expand their creativity by examining social, artistic, and historical influences as they relate to the development of a group and/or collection. Prerequisites: DESN 1550, MPDV 2200, TSCI 1800

DESN 2530 — 3 UNITS COMPUTER-AIDED FASHION DESIGN I

Development of technical sketches utilizing Adobe Illustrator. Hands-on experience in drawing flat technical sketches and creating accurate garment detail. Prerequisite: MPDV 1800

DESN 2540 — 3 UNITS COMPUTER PATTERN DRAFTING I

In this introduction to the fundamentals of pattern drafting techniques using Gerber Technology, students reinforce skills developed in previous manual pattern drafting classes and apply their knowledge to producing patterns using the computer. Additional pattern drafting techniques are explored. Students also produce markers. Prerequisites: DESN 2160, MFTG 2330

DESN 2560 — 3 UNITS PATTERN DRAFTING III

An advanced pattern drafting class emphasizing comprehensive use of acquired pattern making skills as well as advanced techniques. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: DESN 2160

DESN 2680 — 3 UNITS CREATIVE DESIGN ANALYSIS & COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT

After analyzing and researching the components necessary to create a fashion collection, students in this course engage in the challenge of designing and developing collections for specific customers,including major manufacturers. Prerequisites: DESN 1850, DESN 2280

DESN 2700 — 3 UNITS COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT

This class emphasizes the comprehensive use of acquired pattern making and design skills. A complete design look is selected from each student collection. Patterns and garments are developed according to industry requirements. Cohesive design development includes; pattern drafting, garment construction, pattern cards, cost sheets, and style books. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: DESN 2560

DESN 2840 — 3 UNITS COMPUTER PATTERN DRAFTING II

In this advanced course in developing patterns using Gerber Technology, students further develop their skills in creating patterns from sketches as well as from finished garments. Students also produce markers on the computer. Prerequisite: DESN 2540

DESN 2960 — 3 UNITS CHAIRING STYLES

Students explore the relationship between fashion design and furniture design by designing and producing a garment that complements an original furniture piece constructed by an Interior Design student. Prerequisites: DESN 2540, DESN 2560, Department Chairperson approval required

DESN 2980 — 3 UNITS PORTFOLIO PREPARATION & PRESENTATION

Students prepare, develop, and expand a professional portfolio of work while exploring creative and practical techniques to enhance the marketability and appeal of their portfolio. They also analyze and practice interviewing skills to communicate with prospective employers. Prerequisite: DESN 2680

DESN 3000 — 6 UNITS STUDIO I

In this advanced course, the focus is the creation of a collection for the DEBUT Runway Show. Students make an initial selection of color and fabric, develop design ideas, and determine the direction of their collections.

DESN 3050 — 3 UNITS HISTORY OF DÉCOR & COSTUME I

The first course in a series which examines the history of fashion, architecture, furnishings, and textiles in relation to the social and cultural background of each era from the ancient world to the 21st Century.

DESN 3080 — 3 UNITS HISTORICAL COSTUME CUTTING I

A class in the development of the artificial silhouette in history, emphasizing patterning and construction of undergarments and foundations essential to period construction. "Character" body modification is considered. Includes a three (3) hour lab.

There are about 30 movie trailer production companies in Los Angeles. Many of them employ FIDM Digital Media Graduates.

DESN 3120 — 3 UNITS MARKETING DIRECTIONS & THE SUPPLY CHAIN 

A course that examines the basic marketing principles that provide the framework of successful businesses. Students explore the impact of marketing on supply chain decisions.

DESN 3180 — 6 UNITS APPLIED PATTERN DRAFTING STUDIO

Students construct professional blocks to create patterns for specific design problems. In the process, they integrate their knowledge of pattern drafting and draping methods and refine their pattern development skills.

DESN 3250 — 3 UNITS THEATRE ANALYSIS

Theatrical history is examined through selected scripts with an emphasis on analysis for costume design. Focus is placed on those historical periods in which dramatic literature and theatre performance were most prolific and influential.

DESN 3280 — 3 UNITS COSTUME DESIGN FOR THEATRE

A specialized class in the process of costume design and its rendering. Students design costumes for a variety of historical plays and production styles.

DESN 3300 — 6 UNITS STUDIO II

In continuing to develop a collection for the DEBUT Runway Show, students perfect muslin samples of their designs, begin construction of garments, and fit finished garments on a professional model.

DESN 3350 — 3 UNITS HISTORY OF DÉCOR & COSTUME II

A continuation of History of Décor and Costume I, this course examines the history of fashion, architecture, furnishings, and textiles studied in relation to the social and cultural background of each era from the Italian Renaissance through the 18th century.

DESN 3380 — 3 UNITS HISTORICAL COSTUME CUTTING II

A continuation of Historical Costume Cutting I, this course focuses on the draping and cutting of historical costumes, with an emphasis on the draped costume, the semi-fitted Gothic costume, and the artificial silhouette of the 16th, 17th, and 19th centuries. Drafting patterns from period sources and current garments are demonstrated. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: DESN 3080

DESN 3450 — 3 UNITS COSTUME CRAFTS I

A practical survey of the various fabric modification techniques employed by the theatrical costume designer, including dyeing, painting, aging, distressing, and creating unusual costume materials.

DESN 3530 — 3 UNITS DRAWING & RENDERING FOR THE THEATRE

A practical course in which realistic figures are drawn in period costumes and rendered in various medium. Rendering of period fabrics, accessories, and styles is demonstrated and applied.

DESN 3580 — 3 UNITS WARDROBING FOR FILM & TV

This course investigates script breakdown and research techniques unique to wardrobing for film and television. Guest speakers from the industry introduce pertinent issues and practical techniques. Field trips familiarize students with the intricacies and requirements of successful wardrobe design for film and television.

DESN 3600 — 6 UNITS STUDIO III

Students complete and present their collections at the professionally produced DEBUT Runway Show.

DESN 3620 — 3 UNITS HISTORICAL COSTUME CUTTING III

A comprehensive course that culminates in the creation of a fully realized, historically accurate, elaborate costume, including patterning and construction of undergarments, entire garments, and selected specialty work. Includes a three (3) hour lab.

DESN 3650 — 3 UNITS HISTORY OF DÉCOR & COSTUME III

A continuation of History of Décor and Costume I and II, this course examines the history of fashion, architecture, furnishings, and textiles studied in relation to the social and cultural background of each era from the 19th century through the present.

DESN 3680 — 3 UNITS COSTUME CRAFTS II

Students survey and learn the craft of successful costume accessories and costume prop design. Theatrical millinery techniques, armor, footwear, jewelry, and form construction are studied. Prerequisite: DESN 3450

DESN 3700 — 6 UNITS STUDIO WORKSHOP

This course supports Studio II. Students employ problem-solving techniques and apply industry methods of construction in the development of their fashion designs.

DESN 3750 — 6 UNITS STUDIO LAB

In this course, students enhance and refine their ability to fit garments properly to a live model.

The FIDM Library subscribes to 40 trend reports and 200 periodicals.

DESN 3780 — 3 UNITS COSTUME DESIGN FOR FILM & TV

An advanced practical seminar in costume design for film, television, video and other specialized disciplines, including spectacle, musical theatre, opera, dance, and circus. Portfolio scale projects are emphasized to prepare for professional submission and consideration.

DESN 3840 — 6 UNITS THEATRE PRACTICE (INTERNSHIP)

Students apply coursework and demonstrate their skills through supervised apprenticeships, internships, and field study within professional theatre and/or film and television production opportunities.

DESN 3930 — 3 UNITS PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT

Students prepare and present a professional portfolio.

DESN 4000 — 3 UNITS SCRIPT ANALYSIS — HOW TO READ A SCRIPT

This course examines the various techniques used by a costume designer to analyze and breakdown a script for successful costume design, including character analysis, location, action, continuity, and timelines.

DESN 4050 — 3 UNITS COSTUME DESIGN FOR FILM & TV I

This course introduces and surveys the variety of jobs available to the costume designer, including styling for TV commercials and music videos, and designing for film and TV series. An emphasis is placed on designing for low budget production.

DESN 4180 — 3 UNITS COSTUME ILLUSTRATION FOR FILM & TV I

A practical class in illustrating costume designs from written or verbal descriptions of characters. Students explore a variety of media and find techniques that correspond to the students' individual strengths. Emphasis is on visual communication and storytelling.

DESN 4350 — 3 UNITS HISTORY OF ART, COSTUME & CULTURE I

A survey of the portrayal of clothing and adornment in pre-20th century art. The components of the portrait (attitude, fabrics, furnishings, etc.) are examined to give the students insight into the subject and his or her society of the time.

DESN 4380 — 3 UNITS COSTUME DESIGN FOR FILM & TV II

Students identify and analyze the relationship of the costume to the character, the story, the ensemble, the locale, and the time period. Students plan a budget and examine the roles of the various department heads on union films. Prerequisite: DESN 4050

DESN 4450 — 3 UNITS COSTUME ILLUSTRATION FOR FILM & TV II

Students learn how to develop their own style of rendering contemporary and period costumes and fabrics. Customizing the illustration for the actor and incorporating appropriate accessories, props, and background are included. Projects using both hand and computer techniques are prepared. Prerequisite: DESN 4180

DESN 4480 — 3 UNITS COSTUME SUPERVISION FOR FILM & TV

A specialized course that explores the job duties of the costume supervisor and what happens to the costume after it has been approved by the costume designer, the actor, and the director. Managing the costume crew, maintaining the costumes, and keeping the continuity book are covered. Visits are made to a variety of rental houses.

DESN 4620 — 3 UNITS HISTORY OF ART, COSTUME & CULTURE II

This class is a broad survey of 20th century art, fashion, film, architecture, and photography and their relevance, development, and connection to contemporary styles and practices.

DESN 4680 — 3 UNITS STUDIO DESIGN PROJECT I

This course investigates fabrics, tools, and other materials necessary for the construction of a costume. Students learn about the purpose of the fitting and the role of the cutter/fitter. Lecture, demonstrations, lab.

DESN 4760 – 3 UNITS HISTORY OF FILM – AN EYE ON WARDROBE

Students study and analyze the history of American films. Emphasis is on important films, directors, and film genres from the beginning of movies to the 2000s. The great Hollywood costume designers and stars who became icons of style are studied along with changes in the work of a costume designer through the decades.

DESN 4780 — 3 UNITS FILM & TV NOW

Students learn about the resources and research techniques necessary to keep current with the state of the film and television industry. The newest film genres, directors, producers, and stars are analyzed and compared, as students explore how to achieve a successful career path via networking, reading trade publications, joining unions, etc.

DESN 4820 — 3 UNITS SOURCING THE COSTUME

Students gain hands-on experience exploring L.A.'s costuming resources. Students learn where to get what they need to successfully source and fulfill their jobs as costume designers for a student or independent film.

The FIDM Library's Media Lounge has thousands of digital fifiles, including runway shows and fashion documentaries, that can be checked out just like a book.

DESN 4850 — 3 UNITS STUDIO DESIGN PROJECT II 

This course is a continuation of Studio Design Project I. Students complete exercises in draping, cutting, fitting, and fabric surface design techniques. Prerequisite: DESN 4680

DESN 4930 – 3 UNITS PROFESSIONAL PRESENTATION FOR COSTUME DESIGNERS

In conjunction with Film & TV Now, this class guides students in the preparation of a professional portfolio in both print and digital forms.

DESN 4970 – 3 UNITS INTERNSHIP

Students apply coursework and demonstrate their costume design skills through supervised field study with an American Film Institute (AFI) thesis production.