So, we are three weeks into the 1st term and everyone is hard at work. The current 1st years are settling in really well. So far they have started learning basic fashion drawing, illustration, pattern making and garment construction techniques. Soon they will be starting their first main brief, which includes the design, drafting and construction of a skirt. However, they are first coached to master the skills required to execute this project with ease. So the past weeks have been filled with many lectures, demonstrations and class exercises. They have certainly risen to the challenge. 
All the academic staff at DAF are all really excited to welcome all the new students as it seems we have some fresh new talent, which is always wonderful.
Passion, hard work and fun are essential and the first year students seem to possess all these capabilities!
Even at this early stage of the game one can see the beginnings of great designers. This current 1st year class is constantly keeping us all on our toes - they are enthusiastic, fun and inquisitive. This type of attitude is always welcomed as it encourages an atmosphere of open communication and flow of ideas and creativity.
The current 2nd years are equally as impressive. Second year is always tough as it requires a large jump in workload, standard and individual learning responsibilities.They have started conceptualizing their ranges for their main brief 'Active Sports', in which they are all required to choose a sport/active lifestyle and design a 3 piece range.
From 80's electro dance to tennis, hip hop, ballet and running - the students show their versatility and individuality through their initial moodboards. They are currently working on the final designs and I will be up loading pictures of the garments as soon as they are completed.(Kim Sassaen - 80's electro dance)
Another course currently running is costume studies. the second years are in their final module which requires them to choose a film set after 1900 and research this historical era to create one design for full-scale manufacture.Photo's to follow soon...
Sarah Dreyer - My Fair Lady, 1960
Hieke Lauterbach - Memoirs of a Geisha, 1920's-30's
Kim Sassen - The Notebook, 1940's
And last, but certainly not least - the current third years are hard at work on their couture ranges. This years third year students are dedicated and talented.
By this stage students have completed most of the 3 year course theory subjects, leaving more time to concentrate on their end of year ranges for the DAF fashion show.
At the beginning of the term Rene, our garment construction lecturer, shows the students basic couture construction techniques such as corsetry, rouging, working with lace, fabric manipulation, beading, etc. Thus enabling the students to incorporate these techniques into their own designs.
The brief outline requires them to choose a culture or historical era as a source of inspiration for their couture designs. 
They are currently conceptualizing their ranges according to the brief.I look forward to sharing their hard work with you all.
As always, watch this space!
