
B-DES-FASHION-DESIGN in General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology


Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
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About the Specialization
What is General at SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chengalpattu?
This Fashion Design program at SRM Institute of Science and Technology focuses on nurturing creative talent with a strong foundation in design principles and industry practices. It delves into the entire fashion lifecycle, from conceptualization and textile knowledge to garment construction, marketing, and branding. The program is tailored to address the evolving demands of the Indian fashion industry, emphasizing sustainable and culturally relevant design solutions.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for aspiring fashion designers, merchandisers, stylists, and entrepreneurs. It caters to fresh graduates with a creative bent, seeking a comprehensive education in design, as well as those looking to enter India''''s vibrant and growing fashion sector. Individuals passionate about textiles, garment creation, and trend forecasting will find this curriculum particularly engaging.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India as fashion designers, stylists, merchandisers, or even startup founders. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program equips students with skills relevant for roles in design houses, export firms, retail chains, and e-commerce platforms, aligning with professional certifications in fashion technology.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Fundamental Design Principles- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate time to thoroughly understand the Elements and Principles of Design, Color Theory, and basic drawing skills. Regularly practice sketching and rendering techniques to build strong visual communication foundations. Utilize online tutorials and art platforms to supplement classroom learning, focusing on traditional and digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Drawing tools, Adobe Creative Suite tutorials, Pinterest for visual inspiration
Career Connection
A strong foundation in design is critical for all fashion roles, enabling clear conceptualization and execution, directly impacting the quality of your portfolio for future internships and jobs.
Engage in Hands-on Material Exploration- (Semester 1-2)
Actively participate in Design Workshops to explore various materials and processes beyond textiles. Experiment with wood, metal, and plastics to understand their properties and limitations. This broadens your material vocabulary and innovative thinking. Document your experiments and learnings in a physical journal.
Tools & Resources
Workshop facilities, Material samples, Design journals, YouTube craft channels
Career Connection
Understanding diverse materials is crucial for accessory design, textile development, and sustainable practices, offering a competitive edge in product innovation and sourcing.
Develop Strong Communication Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Focus on enhancing both written and verbal communication. Participate in group discussions, deliver presentations, and practice professional report writing. Join Toastmasters or debate clubs if available. Seek feedback on your presentation style and clarity of expression from peers and faculty.
Tools & Resources
Grammarly, Microsoft PowerPoint/Canva, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
Effective communication is vital for client interactions, team collaborations, and presenting design concepts, directly impacting career progression in fashion roles.
Intermediate Stage
Build a Strong Fashion Portfolio Regularly- (Semester 3-5)
From Semester 3, start compiling your best design projects, illustrations, and pattern work into a digital and physical portfolio. Continuously update and refine it. Seek feedback from faculty and industry mentors. Focus on storytelling and showcasing your unique design aesthetic in a professional manner.
Tools & Resources
Behance, Adobe Portfolio, Physical portfolio book, LinkedIn
Career Connection
A compelling portfolio is your resume in the fashion industry, essential for securing internships and your first job in design houses, retail, or export firms.
Deep Dive into Textile and Pattern Making Skills- (Semester 3-5)
Go beyond basic coursework in textiles, pattern making, and garment construction. Practice advanced draping and flat pattern techniques. Explore specialized software for CAD patterns and 3D garment simulation. Attend workshops on textile dyeing, printing, and embellishments to expand practical expertise.
Tools & Resources
Sewing machines, Dress forms, CLO3D/Marvelous Designer tutorials, Local artisan workshops
Career Connection
Mastery of these core technical skills makes you indispensable in roles from production to design, enabling you to translate concepts into tangible garments efficiently.
Network with Industry Professionals and Attend Events- (Semester 3-5)
Actively seek opportunities to connect with fashion designers, merchandisers, and entrepreneurs. Attend fashion shows, industry trade fairs, and online webinars. Leverage LinkedIn for professional networking. Participate in design competitions to gain exposure and feedback.
Tools & Resources
LinkedIn, Fashion event calendars, Industry webinars, College alumni network
Career Connection
Networking opens doors to internships, mentorships, and future job opportunities, providing crucial insights into the industry''''s workings and career paths in India.
Advanced Stage
Undertake Meaningful Internships and Live Projects- (Semester 6-7)
Secure internships with reputable fashion brands, export houses, or design studios during your 7th semester. Focus on gaining practical experience in your area of interest (e.g., design, merchandising, production). Actively contribute to live projects, seeking mentorship and feedback to bridge academic learning with industry demands.
Tools & Resources
College placement cell, Industry contacts, Professional network
Career Connection
Internships are often direct pathways to placements and provide invaluable industry exposure, making you job-ready and building a strong professional network.
Develop a Focused Specialization and Personal Brand- (Semester 6-8)
During your final year, choose electives and major projects that align with a specific area of fashion design (e.g., sustainable fashion, haute couture, digital fashion, ethnic wear). Develop a distinct personal brand and design philosophy that sets you apart. Showcase this through your final collection and integrated portfolio.
Tools & Resources
Design mentors, Specialized workshops, Personal website/blog
Career Connection
A well-defined specialization and strong personal brand differentiate you in the job market, attracting roles that match your passion and expertise, leading to faster career growth.
Prepare for Entrepreneurship or Advanced Studies- (Semester 7-8)
For those aspiring to be entrepreneurs, develop a detailed business plan for a fashion venture, including market analysis, funding strategy, and marketing. For further studies, research top design institutes for Masters programs. Actively seek guidance from faculty on startup incubation or entrance exam preparation.
Tools & Resources
Startup incubators (e.g., SRMIST''''s), Business plan templates, Entrance exam guides (NIFT/NID PG), Alumni entrepreneurs
Career Connection
This proactive step ensures a smooth transition post-graduation, whether launching your own brand, joining a startup, or pursuing higher education for specialized roles and leadership positions.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- 10+2 with minimum 50% aggregate (or equivalent grade) in any stream. Valid scores in SRMIST Aptitude Test (SRMISTAT) or NID/NIFT/CEED/UCEED.
Duration: 4 years (8 semesters)
Credits: 169 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 50%, External: 50%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23101 | History of Art and Design | Core | 3 | Art Movements and Styles, Pre-historic to Medieval Art, Renaissance to Modern Art, Indian Art History, Key Design Movements |
| BD23102 | Elements and Principles of Design | Core | 3 | Elements of Design (Line, Shape, Form), Principles of Design (Balance, Rhythm, Proportion), Color Theory and Application, Composition and Layout, Design Semantics |
| BD23103 | Creative Visualization | Core | 3 | Mind Mapping and Brainstorming, Ideation Techniques, Sketching and Doodling, Concept Development, Visual Storytelling |
| BD23104 | Material and Processes - I | Core | 3 | Properties of Materials, Basic Manufacturing Processes, Wood, Metal, Plastics, Joining Techniques, Material Selection |
| BD23105 | Drawing and Rendering - I | Core | 3 | Basic Geometric Drawing, Perspective Drawing (1, 2, 3 Point), Still Life and Object Drawing, Introduction to Figure Drawing, Basic Rendering Techniques |
| BD23106 | Digital Design - I | Core | 3 | Adobe Photoshop Fundamentals, Adobe Illustrator Basics, Digital Image Manipulation, Vector Graphics Creation, Introduction to Layout Design |
| BD23107 | Communication Skills | Core | 2 | Verbal and Non-verbal Communication, Presentation Skills, Report Writing and Documentation, Public Speaking Basics, Group Discussion Techniques |
| BD23108 | Design Workshop - I | Core | 2 | Model Making and Prototyping, Hands-on Material Exploration, Basic Craft Skills, Problem-solving through Making, Tool Usage and Safety |
| BD23109 | Value Education | Non-Credit | 0 | Ethics and Moral Values, Professional Conduct, Social Responsibility, Human Values, Environmental Ethics |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23201 | History of Indian Design | Core | 3 | Indus Valley Civilization Design, Buddhist and Jain Art & Architecture, Mughal and Rajput Influence, Colonial Design Impact, Traditional Indian Crafts, Post-Independence Design |
| BD23202 | Ergonomics and Human Factors | Core | 3 | Anthropometry and Biomechanics, Human-Centered Design, Cognitive Ergonomics, User Interface Principles, Environmental Ergonomics |
| BD23203 | Design Thinking and Innovation | Core | 3 | Design Thinking Process (Empathize, Define, Ideate), Prototyping and Testing, Innovation Frameworks, Problem-Solving Methodologies, User Research Techniques |
| BD23204 | Material and Processes - II | Core | 3 | Textile Materials and Properties, Ceramics and Glass, Advanced Composites, Sustainable Materials, Fabrication Techniques |
| BD23205 | Drawing and Rendering - II | Core | 3 | Advanced Perspective, Human Anatomy for Designers, Portrait and Caricature Drawing, Environmental Sketching, Digital Rendering Techniques |
| BD23206 | Digital Design - II | Core | 3 | Adobe InDesign for Publications, Introduction to UI/UX Design, Web Layout Principles, Digital Portfolio Creation, Motion Graphics Basics |
| BD23207 | Photography and Videography | Core | 2 | Camera Basics and Settings, Composition and Lighting, Digital Image Editing, Videography Fundamentals, Storyboarding and Short Film Making |
| BD23208 | Design Workshop - II | Core | 2 | Rapid Prototyping, Laser Cutting and 3D Printing, Advanced Joinery and Assembly, Product Finishing Techniques, Iterative Prototyping |
| BD23209 | Environmental Science | Non-Credit | 0 | Ecosystems and Biodiversity, Pollution and Waste Management, Renewable Energy Sources, Environmental Conservation, Sustainable Practices |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23301 | Research Methodology for Design | Core | 3 | Design Research Approaches, Qualitative and Quantitative Methods, Data Collection Techniques, Analysis and Interpretation, Report Writing and Documentation |
| BD23302 | Introduction to Textiles | Core | 3 | Fiber Classification and Properties, Yarn Production and Types, Weaving and Knitting Fundamentals, Fabric Structures and Construction, Basic Textile Finishes |
| BD23303 | Pattern Making - I | Core | 3 | Basic Body Measurements, Flat Pattern Drafting, Dart Manipulation, Skirt Block and Sleeve Block, Pattern Layout and Marking |
| BD23304 | Fashion Illustration - I | Core | 3 | Fashion Croquis Development, Figure Proportion and Poses, Garment Sketching and Draping, Fabric Rendering Techniques, Introduction to Fashion Stylization |
| BD23305 | Fashion CAD - I | Core | 3 | Adobe Illustrator for Fashion, Digital Flat Sketching, Vector Graphic Garment Design, Textile Print Design, Presentation Board Creation |
| BD23306 | Fashion History | Elective | 3 | Ancient Civilizations'''' Costumes, European Fashion Evolution, 20th Century Fashion Trends, Indian Traditional Dress Forms, Influence of Social and Cultural Factors |
| BD23307 | Draping - I | Elective | 3 | Basic Draping on Dress Form, Dart Manipulation through Draping, Bodice and Skirt Draping, Collar and Sleeve Draping, Fabric Handling and Manipulation |
| BD23308 | Communication for Fashion | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | Fashion Terminology and Jargon, Industry Communication Practices, Brand Storytelling, Fashion Journalism Basics, Portfolio Presentation Skills |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23401 | Design Management & Entrepreneurship | Core | 3 | Design Business Models, Market Research and Analysis, Brand Strategy and Positioning, Intellectual Property Rights, Startup Ecosystem and Funding |
| BD23402 | Advanced Textiles | Core | 3 | Smart and Technical Textiles, Textile Printing Techniques, Dyeing and Finishing Processes, Sustainable Textile Innovations, Quality Control in Textiles |
| BD23403 | Pattern Making - II | Core | 3 | Advanced Pattern Manipulation, Tailoring Patterns, Garment Grading Principles, Industrial Pattern Making, Complex Silhouette Patterns |
| BD23404 | Fashion Illustration - II | Core | 3 | Advanced Rendering Techniques, Digital Fashion Illustration, Developing a Personal Style, Collection Presentation Boards, Mood and Inspiration Boards |
| BD23405 | Fashion CAD - II | Core | 3 | Introduction to 3D Garment Software (e.g., CLO3D), Digital Pattern Making Basics, Tech Pack Creation, Specification Sheets, Virtual Prototyping |
| BD23406 | Apparel Merchandising | Elective | 3 | Merchandising Process Flow, Sourcing and Vendor Management, Supply Chain Logistics, Retail Operations, Visual Merchandising Principles |
| BD23407 | Draping - II | Elective | 3 | Advanced Draping for Complex Silhouettes, Couture Draping Techniques, Asymmetrical Draping, Creative Fabric Manipulation, Draping for Specific Design Concepts |
| BD23408 | Fashion Photography | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | Principles of Fashion Photography, Lighting for Fashion Shoots, Posing and Styling, Studio and Location Photography, Post-Production for Fashion Images |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23501 | Sustainable Design | Core | 3 | Circular Economy in Design, Eco-Friendly Materials and Processes, Life Cycle Assessment, Ethical Production Practices, Upcycling and Recycling in Fashion |
| BD23502 | Garment Construction - I | Core | 3 | Basic Sewing Machine Operations, Seam Finishes and Hems, Darts, Pleats, Gathers, Collar and Cuffs Construction, Zipper and Pocket Application |
| BD23503 | Fashion Forecasting and Trends | Core | 3 | Trend Analysis Methodologies, Consumer Behavior in Fashion, Market Research for Trends, Color and Fabric Forecasting, Creating Trend Boards |
| BD23504 | Apparel Production and Quality Control | Core | 3 | Production Planning and Scheduling, Assembly Line Operations, Quality Standards and Inspection, Garment Finishing Techniques, Costing and Pricing Strategies |
| BD23505 | Computerized Pattern Making and Grading | Core | 3 | CAD Software for Patterns (Lectra/Gerber), Pattern Digitization, Automatic Pattern Grading, Marker Making for Production, Pattern Library Management |
| BD23506 | Craft Design and Development | Elective | 3 | Traditional Indian Crafts, Handloom and Khadi, Embroidery and Surface Embellishment, Block Printing Techniques, Craft Revival and Artisan Collaboration |
| BD23507 | Accessory Design | Elective | 3 | Footwear Design Principles, Bag and Wallet Design, Jewelry Design, Headwear and Belts, Material Exploration for Accessories |
| BD23508 | Fashion Styling | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | Principles of Personal Styling, Editorial and Commercial Styling, Wardrobe Management, Photoshoot Styling Directives, Mood Boards and Client Briefs |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23601 | Portfolio Development | Core | 3 | Structuring a Professional Portfolio, Visual Storytelling in Design, Digital Portfolio Creation, Personal Branding Strategies, Presentation Techniques |
| BD23602 | Garment Construction - II | Core | 3 | Advanced Tailoring Techniques, Construction of Specialized Garments, Lining and Interfacing Applications, Fit Analysis and Alterations, Customization and Bespoke Construction |
| BD23603 | Fashion Marketing and Branding | Core | 3 | Fashion Brand Identity Development, Marketing Strategies in Fashion, Digital Marketing for Fashion, Retail Experience Design, Consumer Psychology in Fashion |
| BD23604 | Surface Ornamentation | Core | 3 | Traditional and Contemporary Embroidery, Applique Techniques, Various Printing Methods, Beadwork and Embellishments, Fabric Manipulation for Texture |
| BD23605 | Design Project - I | Core | 4 | Concept Development and Ideation, In-depth Design Research, Problem Definition and Solving, Prototyping and Iteration, Project Documentation and Presentation |
| BD23606 | Visual Merchandising | Elective | 3 | Store Layout and Design, Display Techniques and Props, Lighting and Color in Retail, Mannequin Styling, Window Display Design |
| BD23607 | Entrepreneurship in Fashion | Elective | 3 | Developing a Fashion Business Plan, Funding and Investment Strategies, Legal Aspects for Fashion Startups, Marketing and Brand Launch, Financial Management for Fashion Ventures |
| BD23608 | Digital Fashion | Skill Enhancement Elective | 2 | 3D Fashion Design Software (CLO3D, Marvelous Designer), Virtual Garment Prototyping, Metaverse and NFT Fashion, Digital Showrooms and Avatars, Augmented Reality in Fashion |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23701 | Internship | Core | 12 | Industry Exposure and Experience, Practical Application of Skills, Professional Networking, Project Submission and Report Writing, Industry Best Practices |
| BD23702 | Design Project - II | Core | 4 | Advanced Concept Development, Detailed Design and Refinement, Fabrication and Execution, Testing and Evaluation, Comprehensive Documentation and Presentation |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BD23801 | Major Design Project / Graduation Project | Core | 16 | Independent Research and Concept Development, Comprehensive Design Collection/Prototype, Detailed Fabrication and Realization, Portfolio Integration and Professional Presentation, Thesis Writing and Defense |




