Beyond Graduation
Many of our graduates go on to experience great success in the fashion design industry. Calvin Klein, Michael Kors, and Ralph Rucci are just a few of our notable alumni who have made enormous contributions to the fashion design world.
Career Pathways
FIT prepares you for a variety of careers in fashion design. Graduates hold positions such as design assistant, designer, CAD designer, stylist, and collection specialist.
Fashion Design graduates start their own lines or work in major design houses including Donna Karan, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Polo Ralph Lauren, Giorgio Armani, Elie Tahari, BCBG and BCBG Max Azria, Carolina Herrera Ltd., Kleinfeld Bridal, Alice & Olivia, Nordstrom, and Spiegel Brands.
Career Outlook
Information about this career outlook data
Where Are They Now?
Our graduates exemplify what it means to deliver style, inspiration, and innovation in the world of design.
The Art of Costume Design
FIT alumna Jeriana San Juan, Fashion Design ’04, is the creative force behind the costumes in hit Netflix productions like Halston, The Get Down, and The Mother starring Jennifer Lopez. “The costume designer is a storyteller… our language is through clothes,” she says. Through her designs, San Juan brings characters and their worlds vividly to life.
The Future of Fabrics
Alum Borre Akkersdijk launched his Amsterdam-based clothing line, ByBorre, as a sustainable platform for emerging brands to produce their collections—showcasing the innovative textiles he began developing as an FIT student.
Landscapes in Harmony
Acclaimed landscape architect and Fashion Design alum Kathryn Gustafson is known for creating innovative, beloved public spaces around the world. Her philosophy: uncover the “soul” of a place and design a landscape that fits it seamlessly—honoring its history, culture, and natural environment through every element, from layout and materials to plants and water.
Shopping the Hotel Room
Yowie, the brainchild of Shannon Maldonado, Fashion Design ’05, is a multifaceted project encompassing retail, design, product development, events, and, since August 2023, a hotel.
SHANNON MALDONADO
Learn more about Shannon's business.
Inspiring Intimates
Fern Clausius, Fashion Design ’19, finds inspiration for her luxurious lingerie line in many art forms, from photography to burlesque, but especially music.
Contact Us
If you have questions about this program, please reach out.
Fashion Design
School of Art and Design
Business and Liberal Arts Center, Room B701
(212) 217-5000