In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, inclusivity has finally taken center stage. Designers and retailers are increasingly recognizing the importance of catering to diverse body types, and the demand for fashion forward and impeccably fit plus size clothing has never been higher. However, behind the scenes, the fashion industry still grapples with a lack of education and resources when it comes to designing for plus size bodies.
The need for education and awareness with designing for plus size bodies starts with education right? While there are no programs that give a degree in plus size fashion, the fashion design schools are making inroads- from Minors in Inclusive Fashion at SCAD, to a Dynamic Fit in Plus Size Bodies Course at Pratt Institute, to a Fat Fashion: Fashion Design for Large Bodies class at Parsons, to the Business of Curves Forum that was held in 2017 at FIT NY, to adding specific courses that speak directly to the latest excitement- Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking Course!
Enter Mallorie Dunn, the designer behind Smart Glamour, a visionary fashion educator who is determined to change the course of the industry. Mallorie’s Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking course, offered through FIT’s Continuing Education and Professional Studies department, is a groundbreaking initiative that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to create well-fitting and inclusive patterns specifically for plus size body types.
Dunn shares, “Through my own experience as a fashion design student, my experience running an inclusive business for a decade where I educated consumers on sizing, and now through my experience as a fashion design professor – I am well aware of the fashion industry fashion education system’s failings at uplifting, considering, and serving plus size customers.”
What to expect from the Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking Course
The course, which has now run three times, is designed for those with prior sewing experience and a basic understanding of patternmaking. It delves into the realities of the US consumer market, where the majority (67%) of women are plus size. Mallorie discusses size charts, accurate representation, grading, and the importance of creating patterns that truly reflect the diversity of bodies.
One of the most valuable aspects of the course is its focus on patternmaking techniques for changing the size of a pattern to fit another size. Students learn how to manipulate patterns to accommodate different body shapes and proportions, ensuring that the final garments are both stylish and comfortable. This skill is not only essential for plus size fashion design but can also be applied to create custom-fit clothing for any individual, regardless of size.
Throughout the course, students work with a plus size fit model to put their newly acquired skills into practice. They create their own designs, fit them on the model in muslin, and then make the final garments in their chosen fabric. This hands-on experience is invaluable for developing a deep understanding of how patterns interact with different body types and how to make adjustments to achieve the perfect fit.
Dunn shares, “In my course, Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking – the bulk of the work is learning how to properly change the size of a pattern to fit a specific person – in our case, a plus size fit model. But before we get to that work – we have a full lecture class discussing the realities of US consumers’ sizes, how fatphobia shows up in the fashion industry, how size charts are made, representation in imagery, and proper grading.”
Mallorie’s passion for inclusivity shines through in her teaching. She shares her own experiences as a fashion design student and as the founder of an inclusive business, where she educated consumers on sizing and body positivity. Her commitment to creating a more inclusive fashion industry is evident in her dedication to educating the next generation of designers.
The course has already had a positive impact on its students, many of whom have gone on to use their newfound skills to create their own inclusive fashion lines. By equipping designers with the tools they need to create well-fitting patterns for all body types, Mallorie’s course is helping to pave the way for a more inclusive and accessible fashion industry.
The Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking Course runs Monday evenings, for 8 classes, starting 9/9/2024. Registration will close 9/3/24.
As the demand for plus size fashion continues to grow, there is an urgent need for more education and training in this area. Mallorie Dunn’s Inclusive Fashion Patternmaking course is a vital step in the right direction. By empowering designers to create beautiful and inclusive clothing, Mallorie is helping to create a future where fashion truly reflects the diversity of our world.
