

BACHELOR-OF-DESIGN-B-DES-SID in Lifestyle Accessory Design at Symbiosis International University (SIU)


Pune, Maharashtra
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About the Specialization
What is Lifestyle Accessory Design at Symbiosis International University (SIU) Pune?
This Lifestyle Accessory Design program at Symbiosis Institute of Design focuses on creating innovative and functional accessories across categories like bags, footwear, jewelry, and smart wearables. It integrates traditional craft techniques with modern technology and design thinking, preparing students for the dynamic Indian and global accessory market. The program emphasizes user-centric design and sustainable practices.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for creative individuals passionate about fashion, craftsmanship, and product innovation. It suits fresh graduates with a 10+2 background (or equivalent diploma) who possess an aesthetic sense and a keen interest in material exploration. Working professionals seeking to specialize in accessory design or career changers from related fields like fashion or product design can also benefit. Candidates should be strong in visual communication and problem-solving.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse India-specific career paths, including Accessory Designer, Merchandiser, Product Developer, and Entrepreneur in the fashion and lifestyle sectors. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. They can pursue roles in established brands, export houses, or launch their own design labels. The curriculum also prepares them for advanced studies and global design opportunities.

Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Build Strong Design Fundamentals- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with core design principles, drawing, and material exploration through hands-on projects. Spend extra hours in the workshops and studios to experiment with different mediums beyond assigned tasks.
Tools & Resources
Sketchbooks, Basic design tools, Workshop facilities, Online tutorials on drawing/composition, Peer review sessions
Career Connection
A solid foundation is crucial for all design specializations, enabling versatile problem-solving and higher-level conceptualization, which impresses future employers.
Develop Observational and Critical Thinking Skills- (Semester 1-2)
Regularly practice observational drawing and sketch everyday objects and environments. Participate actively in critical thinking exercises and discussions to dissect design problems and develop analytical reasoning.
Tools & Resources
Daily sketching habit, Design blogs, TED Talks on creativity and problem-solving, Group discussions
Career Connection
Sharp observation fuels innovative ideas, while critical thinking helps designers justify choices and develop effective, user-centric solutions, highly valued by design firms.
Embrace Digital Tools Early- (Semester 1-2)
Proactively learn and practice with digital design software introduced in Digital Representation I & II. Explore online tutorials and expand skills in basic vector graphics, image editing, and 3D modeling beyond classroom requirements.
Tools & Resources
Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Basic 3D software (e.g., SketchUp, Fusion 360), YouTube tutorials, LinkedIn Learning
Career Connection
Proficiency in digital tools is non-negotiable in modern design. Early mastery accelerates project execution and enhances portfolio quality, making students more competitive for internships.
Intermediate Stage
Specialize through Hands-on Accessory Prototyping- (Semester 3-5)
Dive deep into specialized accessory subjects by actively prototyping designs. Utilize SID''''s workshops for leatherwork, metalworking, and other material processes to create tangible accessory samples and iterate designs.
Tools & Resources
Leather workshop, Metal workshop, CAD labs, Material suppliers, Online communities for accessory makers
Career Connection
Practical prototyping skills demonstrate a designer''''s ability to translate concepts into manufacturable products, a key requirement for roles in product development and manufacturing.
Engage with Industry through Guest Lectures and Workshops- (Semester 3-5)
Attend all guest lectures, industry workshops, and seminars organized by SID. Actively participate, ask questions, and network with visiting professionals to gain insights into industry trends and practices.
Tools & Resources
SID event calendar, LinkedIn for professional networking, Industry publications
Career Connection
Direct interaction with industry experts provides invaluable real-world perspective, mentorship opportunities, and can open doors to internships and future employment in specific accessory sectors.
Conduct Focused Trend and Market Research- (Semester 3-5)
Beyond course requirements, regularly research current and upcoming trends in lifestyle accessories, consumer behavior, and emerging technologies. Participate in market visits and compile personal trend reports.
Tools & Resources
WGSN, Instagram, Pinterest, Fashion blogs, Market reports, Retail store visits
Career Connection
A strong understanding of market dynamics and trend forecasting is critical for designing commercially viable products and positions students as strategic thinkers, valuable to brands and retailers.
Advanced Stage
Build a Compelling Professional Portfolio- (Semester 7-8)
Systematically curate and refine all design projects from previous semesters into a polished professional portfolio, both physical and digital. Seek faculty feedback and continuously update it, tailoring for specific job applications.
Tools & Resources
Adobe InDesign, Behance, Personal website, Faculty advisors, Career services
Career Connection
A strong portfolio is the primary tool for securing internships and placements. It visually communicates skills, design process, and professional capabilities to potential employers.
Seek Advanced Internships and Real-World Projects- (Semester 6 (for mandatory internship) and additional voluntary internships in breaks/Semester 7-8)
Actively pursue and secure longer-term internships with reputable accessory design houses, fashion brands, or manufacturers. Take initiative in applying classroom knowledge to solve real industry problems during the internship.
Tools & Resources
SID Placement Cell, LinkedIn, Company websites, Professional networks
Career Connection
Internships provide invaluable industry exposure, practical experience, and often lead to pre-placement offers, significantly boosting employability immediately after graduation.
Develop Entrepreneurial Acumen and Business Skills- (Semester 7-8)
Engage with electives like Design Entrepreneurship and Design Management. Participate in startup competitions or develop a business plan for a personal accessory brand, understanding marketing, legal, and financial aspects.
Tools & Resources
Business model canvases, Startup incubators (if available), Mentorship from entrepreneurs, Industry events
Career Connection
For aspiring entrepreneurs or designers aiming for leadership roles, understanding business fundamentals is crucial. This prepares them to manage projects, lead teams, or launch their own successful ventures.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- Passed 10+2 (any stream) or equivalent diploma with minimum 50% marks (45% for SC/ST). Must have appeared for SET/SEED exam.
Duration: 4 years / 8 semesters
Credits: 180 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 60%, External: 40%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID BDes 0101 | Elements of Design | Core | 4 | Principles of Design, Visual Composition, Form and Structure, Color Theory, Design Elements Application |
| SID BDes 0102 | Drawing Skills I | Core | 4 | Observational Drawing, Perspective, Proportion, Shading Techniques, Object Representation |
| SID BDes 0103 | Design Culture & Context | Core | 3 | History of Design, Design Movements, Cultural Influences, Contemporary Design Trends, Design Ethics |
| SID BDes 0104 | Material Exploration | Core | 4 | Material Properties, Fabrication Techniques, Material Classification, Innovative Materials, Sustainable Materials |
| SID BDes 0105 | Digital Representation I | Core | 4 | Basic Software Tools, Digital Drawing, Image Editing, Vector Graphics, Presentation Techniques |
| SID BDes 0106 | Communication Skills | Core | 2 | Verbal Communication, Written Communication, Presentation Skills, Interpersonal Skills, Professional Etiquette |
| SID BDes 0107 | Critical Thinking | Core | 2 | Problem Identification, Analytical Reasoning, Logical Argumentation, Decision Making, Creative Problem Solving |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID BDes 0201 | Principles of Design | Core | 4 | Design Process, Ideation Techniques, User-Centred Design, Aesthetics, Ergonomics |
| SID BDes 0202 | Drawing Skills II | Core | 4 | Figure Drawing, Gestural Drawing, Character Design, Storyboarding, Advanced Rendering |
| SID BDes 0203 | Indian Culture & Craft | Core | 3 | Traditional Indian Crafts, Cultural Heritage, Craft Techniques, Artisan Communities, Sustainable Practices |
| SID BDes 0204 | Form & Structure | Core | 4 | 3D Form Development, Spatial Relationships, Prototyping, Model Making, Structural Integrity |
| SID BDes 0205 | Digital Representation II | Core | 4 | 3D Modeling Basics, Rendering Techniques, Animation Principles, Portfolio Creation, Digital Presentation |
| SID BDes 0206 | Design Research | Core | 2 | Research Methodologies, Data Collection, User Research, Trend Forecasting, Report Writing |
| SID BDes 0207 | Environmental Studies | Core | 2 | Ecological Principles, Sustainability, Environmental Impact, Green Design, Resource Management |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0301 | Accessory Design Fundamentals | Core | 6 | Accessory Categories, Design Process, User Needs, Material Selection, Market Trends |
| SID LAD 0302 | Material & Process for Accessories | Core | 6 | Leather, Textiles, Metals, Plastics, Manufacturing Processes, Surface Finishes |
| SID LAD 0303 | Technical Drawing for Accessories | Core | 4 | Orthographic Projections, Sectional Views, Production Drawings, Specification Sheets, CAD Basics |
| SID LAD 0304 | Product Semiotics & Ergonomics | Core | 3 | Meaning in Products, User Experience, Anthropometry, Usability Testing, Human Factors |
| SID BDes OE0301 | Digital Storytelling | Elective | 2 | Narrative Structures, Visual Communication, Multimedia Tools, Content Creation, Audience Engagement |
| SID BDes OE0302 | Entrepreneurship Fundamentals | Elective | 2 | Business Models, Market Analysis, Startup Ecosystem, Financial Planning, Legal Aspects |
| SID BDes OE0303 | Design Thinking & Innovation | Elective | 2 | Empathy, Ideation, Prototyping, Testing, Innovation Strategies |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0401 | Bags & Luggage Design | Core | 6 | Bag Anatomy, Construction Techniques, Functional Design, Material Application, Trend Analysis |
| SID LAD 0402 | Footwear Design | Core | 6 | Footwear Components, Last Making, Pattern Cutting, Material Science, Manufacturing Processes |
| SID LAD 0403 | Jewellery Design I | Core | 4 | Jewellery History, Gemology Basics, Metalworking, Casting Techniques, Design for Jewellery |
| SID LAD 0404 | Brand Identity & Communication | Core | 3 | Brand Strategy, Visual Identity, Brand Messaging, Marketing Principles, Consumer Psychology |
| SID BDes OE0401 | Photography | Elective | 2 | Camera Operation, Composition, Lighting, Digital Editing, Product Photography |
| SID BDes OE0402 | Design for Sustainability | Elective | 2 | Life Cycle Assessment, Circular Economy, Eco-Materials, Sustainable Manufacturing, Ethical Design |
| SID BDes OE0403 | Cultural & Creative Industries | Elective | 2 | Creative Economy, Policy & Law, Cultural Entrepreneurship, Arts Management, Global Trends |
Semester 5
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0501 | Watches & Eyewear Design | Core | 6 | Mechanism, Material Innovations, Ergonomics, Styling, Manufacturing Challenges |
| SID LAD 0502 | Small Leather Goods & Belts | Core | 6 | Leather Types, Pattern Development, Finishing Techniques, Hardware Selection, Craftsmanship |
| SID LAD 0503 | Jewellery Design II (Precious & Semi-Precious) | Core | 4 | Advanced Gemology, Precious Metals, Stone Setting, Jewellery Manufacturing, Collection Development |
| SID LAD 0504 | Trends & Forecasting | Core | 3 | Trend Analysis, Consumer Behaviour, Market Research, Forecasting Methodologies, Report Generation |
| SID BDes OE0501 | UI/UX Design Fundamentals | Elective | 2 | User Interface Principles, User Experience Principles, Wireframing, Prototyping, Usability Testing |
| SID BDes OE0502 | Professional Ethics & Legal Aspects | Elective | 2 | Intellectual Property, Design Rights, Ethical Dilemmas, Consumer Protection, Contracts |
| SID BDes OE0503 | Research Methodology for Designers | Elective | 2 | Qualitative Research, Quantitative Research, Data Analysis, Literature Review, Research Proposal |
Semester 6
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0601 | Surface Design & Embellishment | Core | 6 | Printing, Embroidery, Laser Cutting, Digital Embellishment, Textile Surface Manipulation |
| SID LAD 0602 | Smart & Wearable Accessories | Core | 6 | IoT Integration, Sensor Technology, Interactive Design, User Experience, Future Trends |
| SID LAD 0603 | Advanced CAD for Accessories | Core | 4 | 3D Modeling Software, Parametric Design, Rendering, Simulation, Prototyping |
| SID LAD 0604 | Design Management | Core | 3 | Project Management, Design Strategy, Team Leadership, Resource Allocation, Business Acumen |
| SID BDes INT0601 | Internship | Project/Internship | 4 | Industrial Exposure, Practical Application, Project Implementation, Professional Skills, Report Writing |
Semester 7
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0701 | Design Project I (Lifestyle Accessories) | Project | 8 | Problem Definition, Research, Concept Development, Prototyping, User Testing |
| SID LAD 0702 | Portfolio Development | Core | 4 | Portfolio Structure, Visual Presentation, Content Curation, Digital Portfolio, Interview Preparation |
| SID BDes DE0701 | Merchandising for Accessories | Elective | 3 | Retail Operations, Visual Merchandising, Inventory Management, Sales Strategy, Consumer Insights |
| SID BDes DE0702 | History of Fashion & Accessories | Elective | 3 | Costume History, Accessory Evolution, Cultural Influences, Style Icons, Trend Analysis |
| SID BDes OE0701 | Advanced Communication Skills | Elective | 2 | Public Speaking, Negotiation, Cross-Cultural Communication, Professional Writing, Conflict Resolution |
| SID BDes OE0702 | IPR & Design Patents | Elective | 2 | Patent Laws, Trademark, Copyright, Design Registration, Commercialization |
| SID BDes OE0703 | Digital Marketing for Designers | Elective | 2 | SEO, Social Media Marketing, Content Marketing, Analytics, Branding |
Semester 8
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SID LAD 0801 | Graduation Project (Lifestyle Accessories) | Project | 16 | Comprehensive Design Project, Research, Development, Prototyping, Final Presentation, Documentation |
| SID BDes DE0801 | Retail Experience Design | Elective | 3 | Store Layout, Customer Journey, Sensory Design, In-store Technology, Brand Experience |
| SID BDes DE0802 | Design Entrepreneurship | Elective | 3 | Business Plan, Funding, Market Entry, Legal Structures, Scaling a Venture |
| SID BDes OE0801 | Futures Thinking for Designers | Elective | 2 | Foresight, Scenario Planning, Megatrends, Speculative Design, Ethical Implications |
| SID BDes OE0802 | Global Design Practices | Elective | 2 | International Design Trends, Cross-Cultural Collaboration, Global Market Entry, Regulatory Frameworks |
| SID BDes OE0803 | Advanced Digital Prototyping | Elective | 2 | 3D Printing, CNC Machining, Laser Cutting, Virtual Prototyping, Rapid Manufacturing |




