CAD is the acronym for "Computer Aided Design." For activities involving Fashion Design, graphics (including Adobe Photoshop/ Adobe Illustrator) or specialized software (from companies such as Letra Systems or Gerber) is used to create 1) technical drawings or "specs" which serve as instructions for the pattern maker, 2) "collections plans" with the number of items and organization of individual garments within the manufacturer or designer"s current line of clothing 3) patterns for the construction of garments, 4) textile designs, patterns, prints and colours for fabrics and 5) the design shoes and fashion accessories.

Patterns are to the fashion designer what blueprints are to the architect. By learning to measure the body accurately, the designer constructs basic patterns called "blocks" or "slopers," the manipulation of which-using straight edges and curves-- is used to create paper patterns for the production of garments.

Draping is a three-dimensional method of developing a pattern. By manipulating brown cotton directly on the dress form, the designer can visually create shapes and patterns for garment production. Draping involves pinning brown cotton directly onto a dress form then using the fabric as the pattern itself or transferring the markings from the brown cotton onto a paper to create a pattern. For the most part, pattern drafting yields "predictable" silhouettes, whereas draping is used for elaborate or unique designs and volumes unattainable through the flat pattern drafting method.

Textile designers are responsible for the patterns, prints or look of the fabric used in the creation of garments or home furnishings. This may include everything from the basic motifs and colours to used in repeat patterns, the alteration of the surface of the fabric (batik, lino-printing, foiling, boiling, devoré or permanent pleating, for example) to weaving or creating a pattern (jacquard print) which is machine woven directly into the cloth. Traditionally knitting is a handcraft using needles and yarns in a series of stitches to create sweaters, tops, socks and other garments. In industry, knitting machines and often the computer are used to produce large quantities of contemporary knits.

Two-dimensional drawing is used as an (inexpensive) means for solving three-dimensional design problems. Drawing is also the global language of fashion. Increasingly, products are manufactured off-shore in countries where workers may or may not speak your language. Drawings are used to communicate the ideas of the designer to the factory, the manufacturer and even the buyers or commercial staff of a design firm.

Yes. We have planned short courses in "Caribbean Ethnic Fashion Jewellery and Accessories" as well as, "Handbag and Belt Design." In addition there will be intensive professional workshops in Knitting & Knotting, French Embroidery and Fashion Drawing. Please consult our "What"s New" pages for more information.

No, we will teach you how to do this as well as many other skills. Students with some sewing skills, on the other hand, will advance more quickly in the initial stages of the programme.

No, we will teach you how to draw. The drawing component of the application process for the fashion design students is there to provide a snapshot of your incoming level of technical skills.

More so than the drawing skills, we are looking for individuals with creative ideas, people with an innate sense of style who are also aware of fabrics, colours and fashion accessories. A well organized portfolio presented in an attractive way is a sure way to attract and hold the attention of the reviewers. Be as creative as you like. You need not spend money on a binder. Instead, impress us by creating your own binder imprinted with your personality.

First, we look at how well you followed the brief. Then we look at your analytical ability and how well you argue your point (whether or not we agree). The more challenging the photos and analysis, the more points scored.

The Diploma programme (six semesters over two years) is perfect for mature individuals wishing to learn a new skill within a short period of time in order to may prepare themselves for a job as a technician with a design firm, manufacturer or business. This programme has many of the same basics as its degree counterpart however, it has been streamlined to include only essential subjects to help you get up and running as a technician. The BA programme (eight semesters over four years), is a more well rounded programme for the aspiring fashion designer incorporating basic studies in art and design, basic drawing and cultural studies. There is more fashion drawing, more conceptual studies, and more integration with the fashion community via external designer critic projects and planned excursions. The B.A. (Honours) degree programme is modelled after the world"s top fashion programmes and, consequently the best suited for those interested in international-style training.

Yes. Fashion is a highly competitive, tough business. As such, all three of our programmes are reserved exclusively for the most serious of students and require totally dedication. The work load is intense, standards are high and students are expected to keep up. You will be expected to be present and on time for all of your classes and will be required to take your work seriously and hand in assignments on time. The discipline you learn in the classroom will follow you throughout your career and the diversity of your studies will help you to achieve success a number of different fashion careers.

Each semester is 15 weeks in duration. Full time students attend classes four to five days per week (6 hours of classes per days) while those involved in part time studies attend four to five evenings per week (of 3-hour classes).

Independent of activities planned by UTT, CAFD will be planning exhibitions to show off the results of students" best class work. The B.A. Fashion Design third year studies and fourth year studies culminate in a fashion show. Cultural activities are an important part of the fashion design experience. In addition to school events, we also encourage students to take advantage of local theatre, music, art and dance productions.

It is very important for students from T&T to be exposed to fashion capitals in other parts of the world. We are currently exploring the possibility of organizing excursions in the US or Europe or finding a way our students can participate in seminar workshop cooperatives organized by other schools abroad. We will also be inviting visiting instructors and fashion professionals from other world capitals to participate in workshops, seminars or lectures at CAFD.

We are working with the local designers and businesses to ensure internships for students in good academic standing with sound skills.

The CAFD hopes bring support to the existing professionals by providing future designers with new skills and training pattern makers to produce high quality clothing. This will ensure the perpetual existence of the region"s current top designers, raise the standards amongst smaller firms in need of individuals with specific skills and produce new designers with skills to compete on the world market. In the long term, we are hoping the CAFD will contribute to the re-establishment of apparel manufacturing within the region.
With the fashion management programme, we are hoping to lend an international aspect to local stores particularly in the way fashion products are purchased, displayed and promoted. Individuals in this programme will be responsible for both the importation of world class goods to this region as well as the exportation of T&T fashion goods to other world markets.