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Sustainable Fashion Design

Diploma in Fashion

In this programme, students will learn a range of advanced technical skills, from traditional flat pattern making and computer-aided pattern making to Adobe Illustrator and textile knowledge, empowering them to design, construct, and showcase creative fashion collections.

 
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Students explore design development processes and develop sustainable practices shaping the future of the commercial fashion industry.

Resene Colour of Fashion 2024 end of year runway show

Outline

In this programme, students will advance their technical skills and deepen their understanding of the terminology and techniques used in fashion garment production. They'll learn a wide range of essential skills, including flat and computer-aided pattern making, Adobe Illustrator, and textile knowledge, empowering them to design, create, and showcase innovative fashion collections.

The programme includes two signature projects: Resene Colour of Fashion, where students experiment with contemporary colour palettes and bring Resene’s fashion colours to life through silk. This exciting, industry-linked project challenges students to push their creativity while preparing garments for presentation in front of a judging panel.

Additionally, students will design, develop, and manufacture a two-outfit collection, which will be showcased at the Whitecliffe Annual Fashion Show, providing a real-world platform for students to launch their designs into the industry.

Duration

1 Year

Full-time

Key Dates

February 2025 Intake

17/02/2025

 

 

Available Locations

Auckland City Symonds Street Campus
Manukau Campus
Wellington Campus

Costs

Fees free may apply.
All 2025 fees are subject to change and regulatory approval.

Domestic: $7,994+ $300 Student Services Levy

International: $18,460 + $300 Student Services Levy

A number of selected students will receive an opportunity to present their Resene Colour of Fashion garments at the Whitecliffe Annual Fashion Show and at New Zealand Fashion Week.

Further study options:

Level 7 Bachelor of Sustainable Fashion Design Diploma in Fashion, Whitecliffe programme level 5, Diploma, fashion, Whitecliffe, students, work in progress, classroom

Academic Calendar

2025 Academic Calendars

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Key Student Information

NZ Government key information link for students.

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Qualification

Diploma in Fashion
NZQA Level 5 (120 credits)

Graduates of this programme will be able to:

 

  • Develop a broad range pattern making and garment construction skills, textiles knowledge and creative processes to design, construct and present a range of
    finished fashion items
  • Apply the elements and principles of fashion design through development of design concepts and creative techniques
  • Apply knowledge of historical and contemporary fashion industry technical and conceptual influences to inform and develop fashion creation practice
  • Apply knowledge of fashion industry supply chains to inform ethical procurement of textiles
  • Develop the ability to critically to evaluate the quality, aesthetic value, wearability, practicality, comfort and sustainability of fashion designs.

 

Featured student work

Featured Alumni

Admission Requirements

Applicants must

  • Turn 17 within their first year of study at Whitecliffe
  • Have successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology, (Level 4)

OR

  • Have successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Fashion, (Level 4)

OR

  • Provide a portfolio of garment construction and pattern making, evidence of industry experience and a relevant reference, competent skills in literacy, numeracy and basic computer literacy

AND

  • Attend an interview if required.

International applicants must

  • Turn 18 within their first year of study at Whitecliffe
  • Have successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Apparel and Fashion Technology, (Level 4)

OR

  • Have successfully gained the New Zealand Certificate in Fashion, (Level 4)
  • Have achieved prior to enrolling an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 with no band lower than 5 or equivalent (whitecliffe.ac.nz/english-proficiency-outcome)
  • Meet New Zealand visa entry requirements
    whitecliffe.ac.nz/international-students

Faculty Members

The vast majority of our team have extensive experience within their respective industries. This is key in helping us ensure our graduates have the real-world skills they need for a successful career and bright future.