Diploma in Fashion
Design
A course by
Whitecliffe College
Develop advanced skills in fashion design, construction, and textiles, including flat and computer-aided pattern making, Adobe Illustrator, and sustainable practices for the modern fashion industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Available in 3 locations
It will take a total of 1 year
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Advanced Pattern Making & Garment Construction
Develop a broad range of technical skills in flat and computer-aided pattern making and garment construction.
Design Concept Development
Apply elements and principles of fashion design to create original collections using creative development techniques and Adobe Illustrator.
Textile & Materials Expertise
Demonstrate knowledge of textiles and materials for effective and sustainable fashion design.
What You're Signing Up For
The Diploma in Fashion at Whitecliffe prepares students for the commercial fashion industry with advanced technical skills, from traditional and digital pattern making to textiles and Adobe Illustrator. The programme blends creative design processes, sustainability, and practical projects with industry engagement—such as the Resene Colour of Fashion project and Whitecliffe Annual Fashion Show—enabling students to design and present their own collections. Graduates are ready for entry-level positions in fashion, or to progress to further study.
Course Content
- Flat and computer-aided pattern making
- Adobe Illustrator for fashion design
- Textile knowledge and application
- Fashion collection creation and presentation
- Sustainable fashion practices
- Design development processes
- Historical and contemporary industry trends
- Supply chain and ethical procurement
- Signature projects: Resene Colour of Fashion, Annual Fashion Show
- Critical evaluation of design quality and sustainability
What you need to know first
Turn 17 within the first year of study at Whitecliffe.
Successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology (Level 4) OR the New Zealand Certificate in Fashion (Level 4); OR equivalent industry experience with demonstrated literacy, numeracy, and computer literacy. Entry test may be required.
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Fashion
Textile
Apparel
Future employment opportunities might be
Production Assistant
Cutting Room Assistant
Warehouse Assistant
Trainee Machinist
Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details