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Keanan Duffty

Released in June 2021, Fashion Systems look at how the fashion business has grown from the storied Parisian houses of the early 20th century into a global phenomenon. It is highly complex, multi-faceted, and undergoing reinvention. In this course, you will learn about long-standing factors that impact the existing fashion system such as consumption, inclusion, and labor. You’ll explore the “slow fashion” movement, look at holistic and human-centric product development strategies, and build a brand story with core values at its heart. Finally, you’ll consider sustainability and environmental responsibility throughout the fashion design and production processes.

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Released in June 2021, Fashion Systems look at how the fashion business has grown from the storied Parisian houses of the early 20th century into a global phenomenon. It is highly complex, multi-faceted, and undergoing reinvention. In this course, you will learn about long-standing factors that impact the existing fashion system such as consumption, inclusion, and labor. You’ll explore the “slow fashion” movement, look at holistic and human-centric product development strategies, and build a brand story with core values at its heart. Finally, you’ll consider sustainability and environmental responsibility throughout the fashion design and production processes.

In this course, you'll be learning from the following Parsons faculty and industry experts:

- Laura Lanteri, Parsons Faculty, Creative Director/Founder, LLNY

- Lucy Jones, Parsons Faculty, CEO, FFORA

- Amanda Hallay, Fashion Historian, Author & Consultant

- Sydney Price, Parsons Faculty, Founder/CEO, The Knew Purpose

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What's inside

Syllabus

Systems Thinking
In this module, you will learn about the long-standing factors that impact the existing fashion system, including consumption, inclusion, and labor. We’ll look at the "slow fashion" movement and its impacts on resource flows, workers, communities, and ecosystems.
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The Human-Centric Approach
In this module, you will learn how to take a more conscious approach to fashion products and services. This approach places the human at the center of all design decisions by focusing on social engagement and designing for underserved communities.
A Holistic Fashion System
In this module, you'll learn about the creation of a more holistic fashion system, one that considers core values, and why they matter in relating brand story through actions, behaviors, and the decision-making process.
Environmental Responsibility
In this module, we’ll discuss environmental responsibility in the design process and how it affects raw materials sourcing, manufacturing, a product’s "end of life," as well as sustainable practices for the recycling and reuse of garments and textiles.

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches how systems thinking can impact fashion's place in the world, in terms of consumption, inclusion, and labor
Emphasizes the importance of a human-centric approach in fashion design, focusing on social engagement and underserved communities
Explores the creation of a holistic fashion system by emphasizing core values and storytelling
Examines environmental responsibility in the design process, including material sourcing, manufacturing, and sustainable practices
Led by industry experts, including fashion historians, creative directors, and CEOs
Provides learners with practical knowledge and strategies for developing sustainable and inclusive fashion products and services

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Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Fashion Systems with these activities:
Review the basics of fashion trends and styles
Reviewing the basics of fashion trends and styles will help you understand the context of the course material and provide a foundation for the more complex concepts discussed.
Browse courses on Fashion Trends
Show steps
  • Read articles and blog posts about current fashion trends.
  • Visit fashion magazines and websites to see what styles are being featured.
  • Attend fashion shows or events to get a firsthand look at the latest trends.
Read 'Fashion and Sustainability: Design for Change'
Reading 'Fashion and Sustainability: Design for Change' will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the environmental and social challenges facing the fashion industry and explore innovative solutions for sustainable fashion practices.
Show steps
  • Purchase or borrow the book.
  • Set aside time to read the book in its entirety.
  • Take notes and highlight key passages.
Create a mood board or inspiration board
Creating a mood board or inspiration board will help you visualize the concepts discussed in the course and develop your own unique fashion aesthetic.
Show steps
  • Gather images, colors, and textures that inspire you.
  • Arrange the items on a board or digital platform.
  • Reflect on the board and identify the common themes and ideas that emerge.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Compile a list of sustainable fashion brands
Compiling a list of sustainable fashion brands will help you identify companies that align with your values and support the ethical and sustainable practices discussed in the course.
Browse courses on Sustainable Fashion
Show steps
  • Research sustainable fashion brands online.
  • Read reviews and testimonials from other consumers.
  • Organize the brands into a list or spreadsheet.
Complete the online course 'Sustainable Fashion: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Practices'
Completing the online course 'Sustainable Fashion: A Guide to Eco-Friendly Practices' will provide you with practical knowledge and skills for implementing sustainable practices in your own fashion choices and career.
Browse courses on Sustainable Fashion
Show steps
  • Enroll in the online course.
  • Complete the course modules.
  • Participate in the course discussions.
  • Complete the course assessment.
Attend a fashion industry networking event
Attending a fashion industry networking event will help you connect with other professionals in the field and learn about potential career opportunities.
Show steps
  • Research upcoming fashion industry events.
  • Prepare an elevator pitch to introduce yourself and your interests.
  • Dress professionally and arrive on time.
  • Introduce yourself to other attendees and make connections.
Design a capsule wardrobe
Designing a capsule wardrobe will help you apply the principles of sustainability and ethical fashion discussed in the course and develop your own personal style.
Browse courses on Fashion Design
Show steps
  • Identify your lifestyle and needs.
  • Choose a color palette and style that you like.
  • Select a few key pieces that can be mixed and matched.
  • Accessorize with items that add personality and flair.
Become a mentor to emerging fashion designers
Becoming a mentor to emerging fashion designers will help you share your knowledge and experience with others and contribute to the development of the next generation of fashion professionals.
Browse courses on Fashion Design
Show steps
  • Identify organizations or programs that connect mentors with emerging fashion designers.
  • Create a profile and express your interest in becoming a mentor.
  • Meet with potential mentees and discuss your goals and expectations.
  • Provide guidance and support to your mentees on a regular basis.

Career center

Learners who complete Fashion Systems will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Corporate Social Responsibility Manager
Corporate Social Responsibility Managers develop and implement corporate social responsibility strategies for organizations. They may also work with stakeholders to ensure that the organization is meeting its social and environmental responsibilities. This course may be useful for Corporate Social Responsibility Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility, which are important for Corporate Social Responsibility Managers to be successful.
Sustainability Manager
Sustainability Managers develop and implement sustainability strategies for organizations. They may also work with suppliers and customers to ensure that products and services are produced and consumed in a sustainable manner. This course may be useful for Sustainability Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility, which are important for Sustainability Managers to be successful.
Ethical Sourcing Specialist
Ethical Sourcing Specialists work with suppliers to ensure that products are produced in a socially and environmentally responsible manner. They may also work with organizations to develop and implement ethical sourcing policies. This course may be useful for Ethical Sourcing Specialists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility, which are important for Ethical Sourcing Specialists to be successful.
Fashion Marketer
Fashion Marketers develop and implement marketing strategies for fashion brands and products. They may also work with public relations and advertising professionals to create and execute marketing campaigns. This course may be useful for Fashion Marketers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as marketing, branding, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion Marketers to be successful.
Nonprofit Program Manager
Nonprofit Program Managers plan and implement programs for nonprofit organizations. They may also work with donors and other stakeholders to raise funds and build support for the organization. This course may be useful for Nonprofit Program Managers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility, which are important for Nonprofit Program Managers to be successful.
Product Developer
Product Developers work with designers and engineers to develop new products. They may also be responsible for sourcing materials, managing production, and ensuring that products meet quality standards. This course may be useful for Product Developers as it provides a foundation in the principles of sustainable design and ethical sourcing. The course also covers topics such as human-centered design and holistic fashion systems, which are important for Product Developers to understand.
Fashion Consultant
Fashion Consultants provide advice to clients on fashion, style, and personal branding. They may work for individuals, businesses, or organizations. This course may be useful for Fashion Consultants as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as personal branding, visual storytelling, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion Consultants to be successful.
Fashion Journalist
Fashion Journalists write articles and reviews about fashion for magazines, newspapers, and websites. They may also cover fashion shows and events. This course may be useful for Fashion Journalists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as writing, editing, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion Journalists to be successful.
Fashion PR
Fashion PR professionals work to promote fashion brands and designers to the media and public. They may write press releases, organize events, and manage social media accounts. This course may be useful for Fashion PR professionals as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as media relations, event planning, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion PR professionals to be successful.
Fashion Designer
Fashion Designers design clothing, accessories, and other garments. They may work for a particular brand or as a freelancer. This course may be useful for Fashion Designers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as sustainability, ethical sourcing, and social responsibility, which are increasingly important for Fashion Designers to be aware of.
Government Relations Specialist
Government Relations Specialists work with government officials to advocate for the interests of organizations. They may also work with the media and other stakeholders to build support for the organization's agenda. This course may be useful for Government Relations Specialists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as public policy, advocacy, and media relations, which are important for Government Relations Specialists to be successful.
Fashion Merchandiser
Fashion Merchandisers plan and execute marketing campaigns for fashion brands and products. They may also work with buyers and retailers to develop and implement merchandising strategies. This course may be useful for Fashion Merchandisers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as marketing, branding, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion Merchandisers to be successful.
Fashion Educator
Fashion Educators teach fashion design, merchandising, and other fashion-related subjects at colleges and universities. They may also work for fashion schools or other educational institutions. This course may be useful for Fashion Educators as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as curriculum development, teaching methods, and assessment, which are important for Fashion Educators to be successful.
Fashion Buyer
Fashion Buyers purchase clothing and accessories for retail stores. They may also work for fashion brands or manufacturers. This course may be useful for Fashion Buyers as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as merchandising, inventory management, and customer service, which are important for Fashion Buyers to be successful.
Fashion Stylist
Fashion Stylists work with clients to create outfits for various occasions, such as photo shoots, red carpet events, and personal appearances. They may also work for magazines, newspapers, or other publications. This course may be useful for Fashion Stylists as it provides a comprehensive overview of the fashion industry, including its history, current trends, and future challenges. The course also covers topics such as personal branding, visual storytelling, and social media marketing, which are important for Fashion Stylists to be successful.

Reading list

We've selected nine books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Fashion Systems.
Exposes the hidden costs of fast fashion, from the environmental destruction to the exploitation of workers.
Provides step-by-step instructions on how to create innovative and unique garment patterns.
Explores the psychological factors that influence our choices about what to wear, and how these choices can affect our mood, behavior, and social interactions.
Explores the relationship between fashion and film, and how fashion can be used to create character and convey meaning in films.
Provides step-by-step instructions on how to create fashion illustrations, from sketching to coloring.
Provides a comprehensive overview of fashion history.

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