Study Abroad: Fashion Design in Italy
July 8 - August 10, 2007

Italy has long been regarded as a purveyor of exquisitely-made fashion items and home to highly-skilled tailors and seamstresses. From the days of the Renaissance, tailored elegance played an important role in Italian society. In the 16th century, Baldassare Castiglione wrote the famous Book of Courtier to instruct Italian aristocracy on how modes of dress and personal appearance were important features of courtly life. During the 20th century, Italy began to attract serious world attention as an industrial and cultural force rivaling both Paris and New York. Early collections inspired by Missoni, Versace and Armani, plus a steady stream of other high-profile designers have turned Italy into a destination that all aspiring designers should experience at least once.

The AIU Fashion program is designed to give students insight into the history of Italian fashion and how its heritage of technical excellence and style is manifested in today's Italian designs. The program examines the heritage of Italian fashion and the aesthetic beauty that inspired it. Based primarily in the city of Florence, the program will use the city's fashion and artistic resources to complement classroom activity. Visits to other major Italian fashion centers like Rome and Milan complete our exploration of Italy's fashion design scene.

Academic Program Format

While in Florence, you are enrolled in two courses:
  • FAS 220 Survey of Fashion History
  • FAS 230 Fashion Sketching

Visits & Cultural Activities - Beyond the Classroom

Italy is a country where the finest things in life surround you, from great food and wine to many of Europe's most famous attractions. Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance, gives students insight into the history, art and traditions of Italy. In Rome, students can discover more art treasures and catch a glimpse of Italian life as portrayed in Fellini's famous film, La Dolce Vita. While in Milan, Italy's most vibrant commercial center, students can marvel at the locals' sense of style and indulge in shopping on the Quadrilateral. In all three cities, the sights that have made each location world famous are explored.

Program fee includes:

  • Tuition and related fees for two classes.
  • Apartment-style housing accommodations within central Florence (usually twin rooms with ensuite communal lounge and kitchen facilities) for the duration of the program.
  • Full orientation program to Italy upon arrival in Florence.
  • Academic excursions to institutions intimately connected to the story of Italian fashion, including escorted trips to Milan and Rome.
  • Access to a program of cultural activities throughout the duration of the program.

Application Deadline: April 20, 2007


Request Information to Learn More About:

AIU Study Abroad Program