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An introduction to the study of product development from concept to consumer. In this course
students will learn how research is conducted in the fashion industry and how it is ultimately reflected in
garment design. Trend cycles, consumer behavior, social, political, and economic influences are
discussed as influences on trend development.
BUF 2400 PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT IN THE FASHION INDUSTRY
In teams (of four or five), students select an apparel classification and then create a private label
apparel product/line for a moderate priced men’s or women’s wear shop. Students research and
identify the major fashion trends keeping their target market’s preference in mind; shop the
market and analyze comparable product offerings at higher price points; determine changes in
adapting the product to their market; evaluate the fabric selected for the product for
performance specifications; discuss construction specifications; determining the cost of the
apparel product; discussing the quality control process that will go into the fabric and final
product/line; and the methods for merchandising the new private label apparel product/line.
