Studies in Textiles and Merchandising: London, Paris, Milan

- Multi-Country

Locations in Europe

  England

• London: 
London

  France

• Paris: 
Paris

  Italy

• Milan: 
Milan

Term: Summer 
Dates: July 1 - 4: Milan; July 4 - 10: Paris; July 10 - August 7: London

Description: From new labels and creative merchandising techniques to global marketing and a look at famous designers personal sketch books, this study program is an unprecedented on-site exploration of both the history and present state of textiles, apparel design, costume history and retailing in Europe.

The program begins with an exciting three-night stay in Milan, the center of Italian fashion. Participants then travel to Paris, where they have the opportunity to study French retail and design in a wide variety of ways. Field trips have included invitation-only haute couture shows, tours of couture workrooms, famous Paris retail organizations and studio meetings with designers as well as cultural outings to the Eiffel Tower, Moulin Rouge, and the Louvre. The program in Paris focuses on research of a major designer in Europe documenting biographical information, design philosophies, past and present collections.

At the London Study Centre the program provides a study of British retail, textile and apparel industries and their role in a global economy. Beginning with an historical perspective, the students study the retail industry, comparing current management techniques, merchandising, merchandise assortments, research and technology. The merchandising course focuses on merchandise presentation techniques from a variety of stores in Europe and on identifying key emerging trends. Students survey textiles used in historical buildings, costumes, and museums and examine current technology and research in the British textile industry.

Classroom lectures by FSU faculty are augmented by lectures from European professionals from major retail, design and consulting firms. Students are exposed to museums in London, visit major British department stores, and enjoy cultural field trips to places like Windsor Castle, Oxford University and Canterbury. Students are required to conduct research in each course completing either a portfolio, written essays or a fashion forecast mini publication.

Cost in US$: $7650

Not Included: round-trip international airfare; passport; food; books and supplies; personal travel/activity/spending money.

Experience Required: no

Scholarships are Available. - The FSU Department of Textiles and Consumer Sciences in partnership with Federated Department Stores, Inc. is providing two scholarships for FSU students participating in this summer program. Applicants will be evaluated on the basis of academic performance, professional commitment, and financial need. A committee appointed by the Textiles and Consumer Sciences Chair, will review applicants and select the recipients. Further details are discussed at meetings attended by those students interested in the study abroad program.

Application Process Involves:

• Other

Post Services Include:

• Alumni Network

Year Founded: 1957