The Apparel Design and Merchandising Programme is concerned with
all those aspects of design, technology and merchandising required to
create, produce and market clothing and fashions. It aims to develop
a professional and creative attitude to the ever-changing needs of the
apparel and fashion industry. Design development, technical expertise
and an understanding of production processes form the core of the
programme.

The course enable students to question basic assumptions, challenge
conventional wisdom and existing ways of doing things, and meaningfully
explore possible alternatives. It is designed to prepare the student to be
visually sophisticated while developing a stronger understanding of design
objectives and merchandising policies. Awareness of societal dynamics
that constantly impinge on design is also an important aspect of the
programme.

The programme lays emphasis on ready-to-wear, work & protective wear
and costume design. The strength of the course is its close interaction
with the textile discipline, which enables students to develop sensitivity to
the very nature of cloth.

Students study design, production and management, as well as textile
technology. Practice is supported by historical and theoretical studies. The
programme is structured to take students through all aspects of apparel
design like pattern making, draping, sewing, construction of fabrics,
knitting & knitwear design, marketing & merchandising and garment
manufacturing technology. Project-based teaching enables students
to think creatively and fully integrate their understanding of garments,
clothing technology and market requirements. Students undertake fashion
projects from the initial design stage to the finished garment. They are
also given exposure to designing accessories such as jewellery, bags,
footwear, belts, headgear etc.

Graduates of this programme can seek work in the four broad areas of
clothing: ready-to-wear, high fashion, costume design and functional wear.
Several graduates are working as entrepreneurs, having set up their own
design and production units.