Application of principles of visual merchandising through hands-on experience with visual placement, display focal points and background lighting for store displays. From a visual perspective students will explore media through the Internet, print and branding.
Course Objectives
After successful completion of this course, a student should be able to do the demonstrate ability in the following areas (International Textile and Apparel Association [ITAA] Four-Year Baccalaureate Program Meta-Goals Content and Process Knowledge):
1. INDUSTRY PROCESSES, including the ability to
Understand and apply knowledge about the roles and functions of various industry sectors in which products are developed, produced, marketed, sold, and consumed, including construction, sourcing, manufacturing, marketing, and merchandising processes.
Identify and interpret needs and wants of consumers and how industry processes are applied to plan, develop, produce, communicate, and sell profitable product lines.
Evaluate product quality, serviceability, and regulatory compliance standards.
Use industry terminology in appropriate ways.
Understand social, economic, and political boundaries as they relate to the diffusion of products, services, and ideas.
2. AESTHETICS AND THE DESIGN PROCESS, including the ability to:
Understand and apply knowledge about aesthetics and the design process in relation to dress and appearance management.
Use the design process to create products that meet marketplace needs.
Understand how aesthetics and the design process can support quality of life, social responsibility, and sustainability.
Relate the elements and principles of design to product development, use, and evaluation.
Understand the role of historical, socio-cultural, and psychological factors in aesthetic expression.
3. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT, including the ability to:
Communicate ideas in written, oral, and visual forms using appropriate technology.
Function as team members and leaders within professional and culturally diverse environments.
Demonstrate the ability to critique one self and others constructively.
Apply career planning concepts and job search strategies to the diverse industry opportunities.
These objectives are incorporated in the following outcomes:
Design of an event to promote an organizational or fashion event, as a service project and to include the environment as a level of visual merchandising activities.
Exploration of display focal points, branding, and photography in advertisements, catalogs, and web sites of international fashion companies.
Examination of visual merchandising activities and careers to include retail and wholesale business.
Development and installation of displays in retail windows and interiors that include background lighting, styling, and visual (merchandise and mannequin) placement.