In this course, I gained an in-depth understanding of the entire apparel product development and manufacturing process, from the initial concept to the final product reaching consumers. I learned how to plan merchandise strategically, analyze fashion trends, and evaluate fabrics and construction methods through class discussions, homework, and hands-on projects. The course also covered important aspects like sizing, measurement specifications, and mass production strategies. Completing the term project and presentations helped me develop my professional skills in research, communication, and problem-solving, preparing me to apply these concepts in real-world fashion business scenarios.
Project: In this project, my team developed a private label apparel line for a moderate-priced men’s or women’s wear shop, focusing on creating a product that aligned with current fashion trends and the preferences of our target market. We conducted extensive market research, analyzed higher-priced competitors, and adapted their product offerings to suit our more affordable price range. I contributed to evaluating fabrics for performance specifications, discussing construction details, and ensuring cost-effective production. Additionally, we outlined the quality control processes and merchandising strategies to ensure a successful product launch.