Fashion

Design
  • Program Credential

    Diploma

  • Program Duration

    72 Weeks

Program Overview

Step into the world of fashion design at VCAD, located in the heart of vibrant downtown Vancouver! Our Fashion Design program immerses you in the fundamentals of garment construction and design principles, all under the guidance of industry experts.

Engage in hands-on projects using professional tools, surrounded by the inspiring, creative buzz of the city. As you create innovative clothing and accessories, you’ll develop a standout portfolio that showcases your unique style. By graduation, you’ll be ready to launch a dynamic career in fashion, leveraging the opportunities and connections available in Vancouver’s bustling downtown.

Who should apply? 

  • Individuals are captivated by the ever-evolving fashion industry. 
  • Creative minds with a flair for trend-setting and fashion storytelling. 
  • Detail-oriented enthusiasts eager to master technical skills in garment construction. 
  • Visionaries looking to transform their fashion ideas into wearable art. 

If you’re ready to merge your creative flair with practical design skills, this program is your entrance into the vibrant world of fashion design.

This program is certified by the Registrar of the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, ensuring high standards and quality education in British Columbia. 

For more information about our college policies, click the link below:

Student Handbook Dispute Resolution Policy - Sexual Misconduct Policy - Refund Policy - English Language Proficiency Policy

Industry-Standard Tools You’ll Master

  • Adobe Photoshop

  • Adobe Premier Pro

  • Adobe InDesign

  • Adobe Illustrator

  • Adobe Creative Cloud

  • Fashion Snoops

Find the right learning method for your needs.

Do you long for live collaboration and real-time feedback?

Our Hybrid Learning Model brings the energy of the classroom to you! Connect with instructors, bounce ideas off classmates, and refine your skills with instant feedback. Engage in regular live sessions for interactive learning and real-time feedback.

60%

Live Classes

40%

Self Study

Do you need a schedule that works for you?

Our Self-paced Learning Model gives you 24/7 access to course materials, so you can learn when inspiration strikes—while balancing work, life, and everything in between. Take control of your learning with an independent, self-paced experience, plus access to live support.

5%

Live Classes

95%

Self Study

Open the Door to New Creative Connections

Explore Future Career Opportunities

  • Designer
  • Apparel Designer
  • Assistant Designer
  • Pattern Maker   
  • Production Assistant   
  • Product Developer   
  • Technical Designer   
  • Buyer   
  • Stylist   
  • Show Producer  

These are just some examples...the opportunities are almost limitless!

Gain These Competitive Skills for the Industry

  • Advanced pattern making 
  • Create original garments
  • Fashion illustration 
  • Collection design 
  • Merchandise
  • Create a runway production 

Start your creative journey today.

No prior experience. No waitlists.

Learn from experienced instructors in a studio-like environment.

Why Students Want to Study with Us

Personalized Flexible Learning

Take control of your learning with different online and on-campus delivery models that fit your lifestyle.

Cutting-Edge Tools

Work with industry-standard software and technology, equipping you with the tools you’ll need in the professional world.

Professional Portfolios

Build a portfolio at the end of your studies showcasing your skills and preparing you for the creative industry.

Course Timeline

Every masterpiece starts with a plan! Our course timelines guide your creative journey, taking you from concept to career-ready.

Fashioning a Sustainable Future: Nurturing Ethics and Style

Sustainability is essential for the fashion industry to progress, and with the dramatic changes within the apparel industry in the past 20 years, fashion can no longer be taught without first examining the historical, social, and environmental aspects of the global fashion industry and the current tools and methodologies available to improve it. This course examines sustainability and fashion in the contexts of retailing, development, and marketing. The course will look at key theoretical concepts, constructs, and advancements in consumer behaviour, communications, the circular economy, consumption, and supply chain management.

Photoshop I

In this course, students will gain an understanding of the application and importance of image editing and construction as a universal skill in across diverse design genres. This course introduces students to raster image-editing software, Adobe Photoshop. Through this 'hands-on' course, students will acquire skills with workflow fundamentals, as well as advanced features, and tips, and acquire the skills to prepare images for digital output and print. Emphasis will be placed on technical skills, however conceptual development, and creative thinking and approaches will also be considered in all work. By the end of this course, students will be able to create, modify, and enhance sophisticated images using raster editing tools, and features; craft special effects; and prepare files for export to various applications in web, mobile, print, and manufacturing.

Fashion Illustration: Essential Skills for Designers

This course will teach students the fundamental skills necessary to create professional hand-rendered and digital fashion illustrations. Students will develop a visual vocabulary by exploring a variety of mixed media and drawing techniques to enable them to create their own signature illustration style. Rendering and design concepts such as line, shape, texture, colour, patterns, and shading will be explored to aid in this creative expression. By gaining an understanding of proportions through the breakdown and blocking of the elongated fashion croquis and accessories, students will produce imaginative and visually dynamic illustrations that successfully communicate their personal, unique style and ideas.

Colour & Design

This course will build students’ understanding of colour and design principles through exploration and application across media, visual, and applied practice. This course will introduce students to the fundamental principles of colour theory through design, such as layout, composition, balance, colour science and theory and teach them how to apply these principles. These concepts will be reinforced through specific practical exercises and activities that will serve to demonstrate how each of the concepts is integrated into functional and purposeful design.

Patternmaking Fundamentals

This foundational course introduces students to the art of flat patternmaking for apparel production. Explore key concepts and techniques, including block drafting, skirt and trouser adaptations, bodice manipulation, and sleeve variations. Gain hands-on experience in pattern creation and measurement techniques. By the end of the course, students will have the skills to create basic garment patterns and make informed design choices.

Sewing Foundations: Essential Skills

This course provides a comprehensive exploration of essential skills in basic garment construction. Through engaging hands- on activities and projects, students acquire a solid foundation in both fundamental and couture techniques. The course prepares students for the more advanced Intermediate Garment Construction Techniques, where they will create complete garments. Students will gain practical experience in sewing, pattern layout, marking, and material economizing. Emphasis is placed on developing sewing precision to achieve professional results. By the conclusion of the course, students will have the confidence to compile a reference book of samples and sewing techniques, showcasing their mastery of the skills learned throughout the course.

Adobe Illustrator for Fashion

This course provides comprehensive training in using Adobe Illustrator for fashion, equipping students with the skills to bring their creative visions to life digitally. The course covers industry- specific tools and techniques, empowering students to develop a strong foundation in fashion illustration and digital design. The course also focuses on using Adobe Illustrator to create visually appealing marketing materials, digital assets, and fashion presentations.

Fashion Collection Crafting: Concept to Market

Discover the fascinating world of fashion collection design and development in this comprehensive course. From creative research and inspiration to the final presentation, explore every step involved in creating a cohesive and marketable fashion collection. Gain valuable skills in sourcing materials, developing silhouettes, forecasting trends, and recognizing different fashion markets. Students will learn to effectively communicate their vision through mood boards, concept boards, and professional presentations. Students will refine their collection through critique sessions and incorporate feedback to ensure cohesiveness and market appeal as well as develop technical drawing skills to create precise and detailed technical flats of their designs. By the end of the course, students will have a well- developed fashion collection ready for presentation and a solid understanding of the design and development process in the fashion industry.

Textile Design Lab

Explore the world of textiles and fibre science in this 12-week course. Discover the characteristics and properties of natural and synthetic fibres, the process of turning fibres into fabrics, and the terminology used in the industry. Dive into sustainable dyeing, printing, and finishing techniques, and learn about new technologies in fibre production. Gain hands-on experience with weaving, knitting, and fabric manipulation. By the end of the course, students will have the knowledge and skills to contribute to a responsible fashion future and make informed choices in textile production.

Intermediate Patternmaking Techniques

Explore the art of advanced patternmaking in this dynamic course. Learn techniques for creating easy-fitting garments, including trousers, skirts, tops, and jackets. Discover the intricacies of collar construction and draft various collar types. Dive into complex adaptations of bodice blocks for dresses and lingerie. Delve into the world of tailored jackets, coats, and mystery outfits. Develop patternmaking skills through hands-on activities and create patterns for garments that will be sewn in Intermediate Garment Construction Techniques. By the end of the course, students will possess the expertise to design and construct a variety of stylish garments.

Intermediate Garment Construction

Intermediate Garment Construction (48 Hours) This is an advanced course focusing on couture sewing techniques and the construction of complex garments. Through hands-on projects, students will refine their skills in areas such as strapless bustiers, swimsuits, jersey dresses, and trousers. The course emphasizes precision in garment construction, with a particular focus on couture details and working with knit fabrics. By the end of the course, students will have developed advanced construction techniques and the ability to create intricately designed garments.

Fashion History: A Journey of Style and Revolution

Embark on a captivating journey through the ages of fashion history. Unveiling the threads of history, this 12-week exploration will transport you through centuries of style, power, rebellion, and global influence. From the opulent courts of Europe to the revolutionary designs of Coco Chanel and Alexander McQueen, immerse yourself in the stories behind iconic fashion movements and their impact on society. Delve into the rise of haute couture, challenge gender boundaries, and witness the fusion of fashion, music, and art. Discover how fashion has evolved through time, shaped culture, and navigated the currents of globalization. Join us on this adventure as we unravel the intricate tapestry of fashion's past, present, and future.

Fashion Forecasting: Unveiling Style Trends

Fashion Forecasting: Unveiling Style Trends is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of fashion forecasting techniques and the practical application of Fashion Snoops a leading trend-forecasting platform in the fashion industry. Students will learn how to analyze and interpret current and emerging trends and apply this knowledge to predict future fashion directions.

Inventive Design Studio: From Concept to Collection

In this dynamic studio course, students further develop their design skills and expand upon the concepts learned in The Art of Fashion Collection Crafting: Concept to Market. Guided by instructors, students explore fabric swatching, textile experimentation, and creative research methods to generate original ideas. Using their own fashion croquis, students conduct extensive research, create mood boards, establish brand identity, analyze consumer demographics, and produce trend reports. The culmination of these efforts is a cohesive 40-look collection with an emphasis on digital illustration techniques. This course fosters imagination, innovation, and the ability to translate creative visions into captivating fashion collections.

The Timeless Art of Draping

Students will discover the timeless art of draping, unleash their creativity, and master the techniques that bring garments to life. From the basics to advanced skills, students will create stunning classic, contemporary, and historical pieces, exploring the secrets of pinning, shaping, pleating, and gathering as they transform fabric into works of art. By the end of this course, students will refine their skills, mastering the art of draping complex curves with precision and finesse.

Advanced Garment Construction

This comprehensive course offers advanced techniques in garment construction and guides students through the exciting process of collection development. Starting with the construction of a dress shirt, students learn collar and placket techniques. They then progress to tailored jacket construction and explore fabric preparation, pattern layout, and cutting. The course culminates in the creation of a capsule collection first look, where students refine their design skills and bring their creative visions to life. This course provides a hands-on learning experience, enabling students to master advanced construction techniques and develop cohesive fashion collections.

Digital 3D Design Technology I

Students will unlock their digital fashion design potential with CLO. This 12-week course equips students with essential skills in using CLO 3D software for 3D pattern creation and fabric draping simulation. Students will explore the interface, customize settings, and navigate seamlessly. Develop proficiency in pattern-cutting techniques, understand fabric properties, and material assignments. Students will enhance their designs with captivating print techniques and dynamic graphic elements. Students will also polish their presentation skills to showcase their garments effectively. By the end of the course, students will be equipped to create professional digital fashion designs using CLO.

Fashion Buying and Mathematics

In this comprehensive course on fashion buying and retail math, students will acquire the essential tools, skills, and critical thinking required to excel in the dynamic world of retail buying. From forecasting consumer demand to implementing sustainable and ethical practices, participants will gain a deep understanding of the strategies and calculations that drive successful fashion buying decisions.

Brand Architect: Developing and Managing Identity

Explore the world of brand development and management in the dynamic fashion industry through this course. Gain a comprehensive understanding of key concepts and strategies for building strong fashion brands. From crafting brand identity and positioning to implementing effective communication and promotion strategies, students will learn how to create engaging brand experiences and foster customer loyalty. Topics covered include consumer behaviour, retail operations, logistics, customer experience management, project management, stakeholder relations, brand reputation, and the design process. Through practical exercises and real-world projects, students will develop the skills needed to thrive in brand development and management, equipping them to succeed in the competitive fashion industry.

Advanced Patternmaking: Defining Your Design Signature

In this advanced drafting course, students will continue to build on the skills and aptitudes gained from previous terms. Students will create patterns and toiles of the three designs selected from The Art of Fashion Collection Crafting: Concept to Market. This will be an opportunity for students to pattern draft and sew toiles for their own original design ideas. Students will learn the proper fall and fit of a garment as well as techniques to add or reduce fullness/drag lines, and create figure pleasing proportion on the body. Students will learn how to lay pattern pieces and create a fabric yield. Designers will utilize proper patterning and alteration techniques to create a toile, identify and correcting fit issues, and create industry production patterns.

Navigating E-Business as a Digital Entrepreneurship

The fashion e-business and entrepreneurship masterclass is designed to provide prospective fashion entrepreneurs the knowledge and abilities they need to succeed in the world of online retail. Students will explore market research, company planning, brand building, e-commerce platforms, and marketing techniques over the course of 12 weeks, all while embracing the entrepreneurial attitude required for success.

Digital 3D Design Technology II

Students will advance their skills in CLO with this 12-week advanced course. As a continuation of Digital Design Technology I, this course focuses on detailed construction, custom material simulation, production workflows, and presentation skills. Explore advanced techniques such as sportswear and yoga wear, custom trims, and materials like fur, knitwear, lace, and washed denim. Learn production techniques, including modular configurator usage and seam allowance grading. Enhance presentation skills with custom avatar appearances, dynamic 3D scenes, wind controller effects, and animation. By the end of the course, students will possess advanced proficiency in CLO, empowering them to excel in the fashion industry.

Digital and Social Media Marketing: Crafting Engaging Content

This course provides a comprehensive understanding of digital marketing strategies and techniques. Participants learn how to connect with customers, establish a strong online presence, and create engaging content. The course covers various topics, including marketing foundations, strategy development, target market identification, goal setting, and paid advertising. It also explores social media marketing, content creation, e-mail marketing, analytics, and community building. By the end of the course, participants gain the knowledge and skills to succeed in digital marketing, regardless of their role or aspirations.

Advanced Design Studio: Expanding Concepts into Dynamic Collections

In this professional studio course, students will master the art of constructing and fitting garments, focusing on three selected looks from their 40-look collection developed in Inventive Design Studio: From Concept to Collection. Guided by experienced instructors, students will delve into the intricacies of creating custom patterns in Advanced Patternmaking: Defining Your Design Signature, while gaining proficiency in construction techniques, sewing, pressing, fabric utilization, and fitting. Utilizing a fit model, students will execute precise fittings, meticulously recording their observations alongside instructor feedback. By the end of the course, students will possess the expertise to seamlessly transform their design visions into meticulously crafted garments that exhibit both impeccable construction and ideal fit.

Digital Pattern Making

This course introduces students to computer-aided design for pattern making. Students will learn how to transfer pattern drafts to a computer with industry-standard software. This course introduces the digital equivalents of pattern creation, alterations to existing product patterns, grade rule tables, and marker making. Through hands-on experience, students will gain knowledge of the system’s capabilities to digitize and modify designs, manage files, plot patterns, and apply grade rules.

Fashion Production Management and the Technical Package

Explore the intersection of creativity and innovation with this 12- week comprehensive course. Students will gain essential skills and knowledge to bring their fashion ideas to life while integrating sustainable practices throughout the process. From market research to design, prototyping to sourcing, and quality control to distribution, learn how to create stylish and environmentally responsible products. Join in and shape the future of fashion through product development.

Portfolio & Professional Development

Students develop the tools and skills required to present themselves professionally and succeed in the fashion industry. Outcomes include a professional digital portfolio, a portfolio presentation, an industry-standard resume, an industry-standard job application cover letter template, the ability to conduct a winning job interview, networking skills, a professional LinkedIn, and the ability to use social media strategically for professional purposes. This course will encourage students to continue to develop self-branding strengths, portfolio content, professional communication skills, and ongoing professional development.

Fashion Styling Unleashed

Fashion Styling Unleashed equips students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel as fashion stylists. Learn the significance of fashion styling, develop key skills, and explore the role of the stylist as a cultural gatekeeper and storyteller. Learn about body proportions, silhouette coordination, design principles, and creating visually perfect outfits. Gain insights into print styling, editorial shoots, client wardrobe management, portfolio building, branding, and networking. Emphasis is placed on inclusion, and styling in the digital age. This course provides a solid foundation for success in the dynamic field of fashion styling.

Fashion Capstone: Bringing Your Final Collection to Life

This comprehensive course is designed to help students transform their sketches into a stunning line of garments ready for the runway. With a focus on individual design aesthetics, students will construct a final collection that showcases their unique vision. Building upon the skills learned, students will review and refine their samples to ensure accuracy and precision. By the end of the course, students will have developed a design portfolio that reflects their creative talent and prepares them for success in the fashion industry.

Fashion Event Management and Promotion

This comprehensive course is designed to provide fashion students with the knowledge and skills necessary to successfully organize, manage, and promote fashion events and shows. Students will explore the key elements involved in planning and executing fashion events, including event logistics, production, promotion, branding, and sustainable practices. Through theoretical concepts, practical assignments, and hands-on projects, students will gain the necessary expertise to create and deliver impactful fashion events that engage audiences, align with marketing strategies, and promote fashion brands effectively.

Learn about our University Pathways

VCAD partners with leading institutions to empower graduates into pursuing a Bachelor's degree.

Click here to learn more.

Testimonials

Since VCAD gave me a call back, I felt open and hopeful and it really gave me the courage to actually pursue a career in Fashion Design

Avnit K.

Fashion Design Graduate

Thanks to VCAD's great admissions team, the financial process was easy and straightforward. I was very excited to learn about what VCAD had to offer for me.

Kayla S.

I wanted to progress my skills in pattern-making and sewing. Being in the class and having first-hand wisdom from my experienced instructors - guiding me into becoming a better designer - was a big part of my enrolling at VCAD.

Dryden S.

The instructors at VCAD are amazing, as long as you ask them and tell them what you want to do, they will help you with that. My instructor even remembered what I had asked her one year ago.

Komal K.

STUDENT PORTFOLIOS

See how this program elevates creativity into high-quality work across diverse fields

Our Instructors

Behind every great mind is an inspiring mentor. Meet the creative visionaries who will spark ideas, fuel your passion, and uplift your talent.

FAQ's

How long does the program take?

You can find the length of your program on our website under programs! If you have further questions regarding the length and hours of any of our offered programs, please click HERE to speak to an admissions representative.

What is the cost of my program?

To learn more about tuition in BC and Alberta, click here. For international student tuition, click here.

Online Studies

Programs may be available in various modalities. Please refer to the specific program page to learn more.

Loans and Grant Information

Our experienced Student Financial Planners can provide further information on program funding, such as available scholarships. You may also refer to your provincial funding webpage for more information. 

Start Dates

Our campuses offer a variety of start dates. To learn more about our upcoming start dates, please reach out to your campus of choice.

School and Program Accreditation

VCAD Calgary offers vocational training licensed under the Private Career Colleges Branch of Alberta Advanced Education.

VCAD Vancouver programs were reviewed and approved by the Registrar of the Private Training Institutions Regulatory Unit (PTIRU) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills, which regulates private training institutions in British Columbia. British Columbia's Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation is Canada's first and only provincial brand of quality for post-secondary education. VCAD's EQA designation is recognized globally as a symbol of quality education and consumer protection.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Click below to learn more or apply today. Our team is here to help you start your journey.

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