Program Overview

Do you want to become a buying expert with specialist technical knowledge in the design and development of commercial and performance clothing? This course will prepare you for a range of roles in the exciting and fast-paced fashion industry.

The fashion industry is constantly evolving and there is a growing need for buyers with a rounded knowledge of product realization, as well as technical design and development expertise. This course can equip you with the skills needed to continuously innovate and adapt to changes within this fast-moving sector. 

You’ll learn about the life cycle of a product from the concept stage and market analysis, through to delivery to the shop floor. Develop your design aesthetic through practical skills, exploring pattern cutting, construction, fabric awareness, and creating your own commercial design work. Choose to enhance this and develop your technical ability with a focus on making 3D garments, or 3D computer-aided design (CAD). You will have access to a suite of the latest software packages to progress your design skills and learn new applications. 

Make the most of opportunities to connect with our strong industry network to gain support in idea generation for new product developments. We’ll also offer you the opportunity to work on live projects with industry insiders and to hear from expert visiting lecturers.

Key features

• Fashion Buying at DMU was named best in ‘Learning Experience and Long-term Value’ in 2019 by The Business of Fashion, the internationally renowned website that assesses the world’s top programs.
• Gain the fundamental skills needed to excel in the fashion industry and become a specialist in buying and product development with strong technical expertise.
• Learn directly from fashion industry experts – work alongside them and discuss your own ideas.
• Gain valuable knowledge of the research and development process, from market analysis, design, pattern cutting and manufacture, to assessing fit and garment success.
• Learn about the latest technical advances affecting product development, and gain confidence with specifications, sourcing decisions and planning.
• Choose to take a one-year industry placement within, or outside the UK. Students have experienced life at Tommy Hilfiger, O'Neill, Marks & Spencer, Next, George, Joules, G-Star Raw, River Island, The Global Brands Group, and at supply bases. Many have gone on to work for these international brands and suppliers.
• Study in the award-winning Vijay Patel Building where our well-equipped design workshops and photography studios enable you to explore your design potential while making and testing products.
• We provide core workshop materials at no cost, and give cash awards – £150, £200 and £300 in years one, two and three respectively – to support personal materials and printing costs*.