The global fashion industry is an amalgamation of classic forever pieces and evolving fashion trends, where every item of clothing carries its narrative. However, clothes alone are a tiny part of fashion’s meaning to people. For most, fashion represents individuality, culture and history.
The cultural melting pot of India has put the spotlight on emerging talent. It is now an influential force to be reckoned with in fashion.
This growth presents an excellent opportunity for aspiring designers to pursue fashion designing courses after 12th.
This guide offers an in-depth exploration of fashion designing courses after 12th in India, with insights into fees, duration, and career prospects.
Unveiling the Fashion Landscape
Before looking into the dress design course, it’s essential to unfurl the expansive canvas of the fashion domain. The industry has many facets that merge creative thinking with sharp business sense.
From runways with posh rampwalks of glamour capitals to bara marketplaces of India’s cities, nothing could escape the clutches of this powerful term’ fashion’.
Core Pillars of the Fashion Industry:
● Design: It’s the heart and soul of fashion, where creativity meets material, leading to the birth of trends.
● Merchandising: This is where commerce meets fashion. It ensures that designs are effectively showcased in markets and reach their intended audience.
● Journalism: The voice of fashion. This area focuses on reporting trends, critiques, and fashion news, keeping the industry vibrant and relevant.
● Photography: A visual diary of fashion, photographers capture the allure and essence of designs, ensuring they captivate audiences globally.
An Overview of Fashion Education in India
India, known for its rich tapestry of textiles, colours, and traditional attire, offers several types of fashion designing courses after 12th for budding fashionistas. These courses range from short diplomas to intensive postgraduate programs.
Here are some of the significant types of fashion designing courses after 12th:
● Bachelor of Design (Fashion Designing) – 4-year undergraduate program covering fundamentals of fashion and design. Offered by design institutes like NIFT, Pearl Academy, Symbiosis Institute of Design, etc.
● BSc in Fashion Designing – 3-year degree program focused on fashion design, technology, and production, offered by universities and colleges.
● Diploma in Fashion Designing – 1-3 year diploma courses offered by design institutes, colleges and private academies. Covers the basics of design, pattern making, and garment construction.
● Certificate courses – Short-term certificate programs of 3-6 months in fashion illustration, merchandising, CAD, and apparel production. Offered by institutes and online platforms.
● Post Graduate Diploma in Fashion Designing – PG level programs of 1-2 year duration for graduates looking to specialise in fashion. Covers advanced design concepts.
● Specialised courses – Programs focused on footwear design, accessory design, fashion communication, costume design, and fashion styling.
● Online fashion designing courses – Various certificate and diploma programs are offered online, covering fundamentals to advanced modules. Flexible and affordable option.
So, in summary, there are certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate level fashion designing courses after 12th available in India spanning 1-4 years focused on different aspects of fashion
Top Colleges for Fashion Designing Courses after 12th in India
Below is a list of top colleges for fashion designing in India:
Government
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Multiple Locations: Founded in 1986, NIFT is India’s epitome of fashion education.
National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad: Recognised globally, NID has fostered creative minds since 1961.
Indian Institute of Crafts & Design (IICD), Jaipur: Focusing on the rich craft traditions of India, IICD offers a unique perspective on fashion.
Private
Pearl Academy, Multiple Locations: With a contemporary curriculum and global partnerships, Pearl Academy has been at the forefront of fashion education for over two decades.
Symbiosis Institute of Design (SID), Pune: SID has carved a niche in fashion and design disciplines by offering specialised programs.
JD Institute of Fashion Technology, Multiple Locations: Established in 1988, JD Institute is renowned for its cutting-edge programs and industry linkages.
Spotlight on Fashion Courses in India
Below is a detailed table showcasing popular programs and fashion designing course fees in India:
| Course Name | Duration | Average Fee (INR) | Key Highlights |
| Diploma in Fashion Design | 6 months | 50,000 – 1,00,000 | Focuses on foundational principles of design |
| Bachelor’s in Fashion Design (BFD) | 4 years | 4,00,000 – 10,00,000 | Comprehensive curriculum; industry exposure |
| PG Diploma in Fashion Design | 2 years | 2,00,000 – 5,00,000 | Advanced topics with an emphasis on specialisation |
| Master’s in Fashion Design (MFD) | 2 years | 3,00,000 – 8,00,000 | In-depth research-based studies; niche areas |
| Certificate Course in Fashion | 3 months | 30,000 – 50,000 | Short term: focuses on specific skills |
Entrance Exams for Fashion Designing in India
Here are some of the top fashion designing entrance exams in India:
● NIFT Entrance Exam – National Institute of Fashion Technology exam for admission to NIFT’s undergraduate and postgraduate fashion design courses.
● NID DAT – National Institute of Design Design Aptitude Test for admission to NID’s design programs, including fashion design.
● CEED – Common Entrance Exam for Design conducted by IIT Bombay for admission to design programmes at IITs and other institutes.
● Pearl Academy Entrance Exam – For admission to Pearl Academy’s fashion, design and media programs.
● MITID DAT – MIT Institute of Design entrance test for admission to design programmes.
● UPESDAT – University of Petroleum and Energy Studies Design Aptitude Test for admission to fashion, product design etc.
● SOFT – School of Fashion Technology entrance exam for admission to its undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.
● WWI Entrance Exam – Whistling Woods International exam for admission to fashion, design, communication and other programs.
● Srishti Entrance Exam – By Srishti Institute of Art, Design and Technology for admission to UG and PG design courses.
● LISAAAT – LISAA Entrance Exam for admission to fashion design, interior design and other programmes.
Besides these, many other design colleges and institutes conduct entrance tests for admission to fashion design programmes.
Deep Dive: Factors to Consider When Choosing a Course
Selecting a fashion designing course after 12th is a significant decision. Here’s a more in-depth look at the factors one should consider:
1. Fashion Designing Course Fees:
● Institutional Reputation: Premier institutions such as NIFT, Pearl Academy, or NID have a reputation for excellence, resulting in higher fees. However, these fees often reflect the unparalleled faculty, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and unmatched industry exposure they offer.
● Geographic Location: Metropolitan hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, or Bangalore usually have higher fees due to increased operational costs and the promise of better industry exposure.
● Depth and Breadth of the Course: Intensive programs, which offer specialised modules or opportunities for global exposure, tend to be more expensive.
2. Course Duration:
● Short-Term vs. Long-Term Commitment: Short-term fashion designing courses after 12th can be ideal for gaining specific skills, but long-term programs provide a more in-depth understanding of the fashion world. Your choice should align with your career aspirations.
● Balancing Theory and Practical: Finding a course that balances theoretical knowledge with practical experience is essential, ensuring you’re industry-ready upon graduation.
3. Career Opportunities after Fashion Designing in the Indian Scenario:
● Vastness of the Field: From becoming a fashion designer, stylist, or journalist to roles in fashion PR, visual merchandising, and more – the industry offers a spectrum of opportunities.
● The Digital Transformation: India’s digital evolution has birthed roles in fashion blogging, e-commerce, and digital fashion marketing. Courses that provide modules on these emerging trends can be invaluable.
● Building a Brand: India is witnessing a surge of homegrown brands. If entrepreneurship appeals to you, look for courses that offer modules on brand-building, management, and finance.
Emerging Trends and Future Projections
Indian fashion has always been a confluence of traditional and contemporary. However, the future holds even more promise:
● Sustainability: With an increasing global focus on sustainability, courses that incorporate sustainable practices in fashion will be in demand.
● Technology in Fashion: From AR/VR dressing rooms to AI-driven designs, tech integration in fashion is undeniable. Courses that bridge fashion and tech will be pivotal.
● Global Outreach: As Indian fashion gains global traction, The demand for designers who understand local and global fashion landscapes is expected to increase significantly in the coming years.
Wrapping Up: The Road Ahead
India’s fashion scene is undergoing a transformative phase, making it a thrilling time for aspirants to embark on their fashion journey. While the opportunities are abundant, success will hinge on a blend of creativity, knowledge, the proper educational foundation and choosing the right fashion designing course after 12th.
By 2030, experts predict that India will be a formidable force in the global fashion domain. Embarking on a fashion career now places you at the vanguard of this dynamic shift. As the adage goes, “Fashion fades, but style is eternal.” In a country as diverse and vibrant as India, the journey in the fashion world is bound to be nothing short of exhilarating.
With the proper guidance, education, and passion, the future of Indian fashion shines brightly, beckoning the designers of tomorrow. Our list of fashion designing courses after 12th will help you choose the right course in fashion designing field.
FAQs Related to Fashion Designing Courses After 12th
Q1. Is a Degree in Fashion Necessary to Become a Designer in India?
Ans1. While raw talent is vital, formal education provides structured learning, industry exposure, and networking opportunities, enhancing your prospects.
Q2. Are Fashion Courses in India Recognised Globally?
Ans2. Premier institutes like NIFT and NID are globally recognised. Many graduates from these institutes work with international fashion houses. NIFT and NID provides one of the best fashion designing courses after 12th in India
Q3. Can One Specialise in Traditional Indian Fashion?
Ans3. Absolutely! Many institutes offer specialised modules focusing on India’s rich textile and design traditions.
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