Immaculata University’s Fashion Merchandising program has completed a virtual fashion show, thus continuing an annual tradition that was disrupted by COVID-19 last year.

Through a video presentation, students in the program highlight pieces that they created and explain the business side of the fashion industry, including the importance of sustainability.

As done with the traditional fashion show, area high school students were invited to participate –– this year through a virtual presentation. The program included a Q&A session with the Immaculata students and program director Lina Castro regarding the industry’s process and business.

“I am extremely proud of how our students were able to transition from the traditional, somewhat chaotic demands of putting together a live fashion show to a video component reflecting on their personal and academic journey through IU’s fashion merchandising program to help support high school students interested in a fashion career,” said Castro.

The fashion show is just one of many hands-on experiences fashion merchandising students actively participate in during the semester. The multidisciplinary curriculum of Immaculata’s fashion merchandising program integrates the creative process with business principles.

Students complete two field experiences, which align with a chosen career path to help students gain hands-on experience. Students have recently been placed at QVC, Marie Claire magazine, Urban Outfitters, Anthropologie, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Beauty Within TV, Bouché Productions, The Globe Showroom in New York City, Showroom Seven, GAP, Ann Taylor Loft, People’s Light and Theater, Frey Boutique, and more. Also, students are encouraged to select a minor that helps them specialize in an area specific to the fashion industry.