Fashion Design & Product Development
Want to become a fashion innovator—and launch your collection faster?
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Fashion Design & Product Development at Stephens College is ranked among the best in the world. Here, you’ll master every aspect of the industry—from initial sketch to final product—through a rigorous, hands-on curriculum, extensive alumni network, and high-level industry connections.
This fashion degree is for students who want to define their design identity, master advanced digital technologies, and graduate with a professional portfolio that stands out in a global market.
World-Ranked. Industry-Connected. Career-Ready.
Stephens Fashion is built differently—and that’s the advantage.
- Global Recognition: Ranked 6th “Best Fashion School in the World” (2019, Business of Fashion) and 22nd worldwide (2022, CEOWORLD).
- CFDA Partnership: One of only 20 schools nationwide invited to Council of Fashion Designers of America educational initiatives.
- Elite Scholarships: Students consistently earn top honors from the Fashion Scholarship Fund and Fashion Group International.
- Top-Tier Private Education: Ranked No. 15 Private Fashion Design School in the U.S. by Fashion-Schools.org.
Fashion isn’t just about the runway.
Stephens’ program began in 1944 as a response to a “fashion emergency,” focusing on practical knowledge of construction and design. Today, we blend that heritage with high-tech digital tools and industry expertise, so you understand the entire lifecycle of a garment.
Industry Experience—Early and Often
You won’t wait until graduation to enter the fashion world. At Stephens, you are a designer from day one.
- The Collections: Participate in the 81st Annual Student Designer Fashion Show, a capstone experience that showcases your original work to the public.
- International Study: Take study trips to global fashion capitals for college credit.
- Professional Internships: Gain experience at industry giants like Elle Magazine and WWD, or with emerging boutique brands.
- Expert Mentorship: Learn from more than 30 industry professionals who visit Stephens each year to critique work and share insights.
- Team Collaboration: Work with other fashion majors on real-world projects that mirror the professional industry.
What Can You Do With a Fashion Design & Product Development Degree?
A BFA from Stephens College prepares you to:
- Design Original Works: Define your identity as a designer and create professional-level collections.
- Master Technical Skills: Become an expert in patternmaking, draping, and fashion drawing.
- Lead with Technology: Use Adobe Creative Suite, CLO 3D and advanced digital tools to develop dynamic fashion presentations.
- Collaborate in Teams: Work across fashion majors on real-world projects.
- Preserve & Research: Gain experience in historic conservation and archival research.
Is This Major Right for You?
This program could be a great fit if you:
- Love the challenge of creating original, wearable art
- Want to be part of a program ranked among the world’s best
- Thrive in collaborative, team-based environments
- Are interested in both the creative and technical sides of product development
- Want access to one of the country’s most extensive historic costume collections
- Dream of taking your skills to international fashion capitals
The Stephens Advantage
- Unrivaled Networking: Direct connection to the CFDA and a massive network of successful alumni.
- Small Studio Cohorts: Personalized attention from faculty who are industry experts.
- Historic Inspiration: Direct access to 13,000 garments for research and inspiration.
- A Women’s College Environment: A supportive space that builds the confidence and leadership needed to thrive in the fashion industry.
Facilities: The Costume Museum and Research Library (CMRL)
Stephens is home to Missouri’s most extensive collection of historical garments. Established in 1958, the Matilda Magnus Price Fashion Collection holds more than 13,000 pieces dating back to 1730.
- Designer Archives: Study original works by Chanel, Dior, Oscar de la Renta, Valentino, Claire McCardell, and more.
- Hands-On Research: Students curate exhibits, conduct individual research, and gain conservation experience by interning with the CMRL.
- Historic Costume Gallery: Hosts free public exhibits, lectures, and research events—serving as a working laboratory for students.
What does a block schedule look like?
Take a look at the below sample block schedule for a first-year Fashion Design & Product Development major. The Block offers the rare opportunity to focus on what matters: learning, doing, and getting ready for your future. Want to know more? Contact an advisor academicaffairs@stephens.edu.
Immersive Learning Opportunities
Produce, market, and report on The Collections, our annual student designer fashion show, a dynamic runway event established in 1944.
The Collections
Network with top industry professionals who visit Stephens every year, including prestigious designers invited by the Jeannene Booher Fashion Lecture Series.
Be inspired by our Historic Costume Museum and Research Library, featuring 13,000+ pieces, including designer garments from fashion icons Chanel, Oscar de la Renta, and more.
Costume Museum & Research LibraryThe Collections Annual Fashion Slideshow
To showcase the incredible up-and-coming talent of our Fashion students, Stephens College has been producing The Collections annual student designer fashion show for more than 80 years.
Related programs
Contact Us
Fashion
Dr. Kristin Kite, Program Chair
(573) 876-7175, Ext. 4221
Contact Stephens College