Fashion School Q&A: Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart

German fashion design school Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart was set up in 1952 and it specialises in product development including computer-aided design (CAD), fashion illustration, manual pattern making and more. FashionUnited recently spoke to the school’s principal Sabine Dirlewanger to discuss the impact of Covid-19, the type of courses the college offers and the future plans of the institute.

How has the transition from in-house to remote learning been for the school and students?

Our school offers our students big spaces, which made it possible to continue with the in-house learning for many of them. Distance learning works very well for groups that had to change. They can also access the school computers from home with special software.

How would you describe Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart’s student community?

The Staatliche Modeschule is a small school with a concentrated two years education program. It is a very special school for fashion design with a personal feel. That is why the students are able to create a close knit community, in which teachers are also included. It is a community that comes close very quickly and gets closer every day.

What kind of courses does Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart offer? What is the focus area?

Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart’s education covers all facets of fashion from developing an idea to a product and an image. Students are taught to understand the entire fashion chain and their specific discipline in a wider perspective.

The focus area includes three disciplines: design, technical development and product management. The way of studying is practically orientated and close to industry. The graduates acquire creative, manual and technical skills and learn to use interdisciplinary thinking to design progressive collections.

The graduates are employed in various levels of the fashion industry in companies such as Adidas, Akris, Bernhard Wilhelm, Marc O'Polo, Maryan Beachwear, Mey, Porsche, Puma, Riani, Vaude.

What do we need to know about Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart?

Our students work with external partners, they compete for awards and independently work on all processes from product development to the final series production of garments.

Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart stands for industry networks and opportunities for collaboration with external professionals and job opportunities for our graduates.

What are the plans for this year? Any new things coming up?

We are developing digital meetings and conferences to change the working process. One of the most important traits for up-and-coming designers is a sensitivity to social, cultural, and economic factors.

Do you have any tips for future students who want to study at Staatliche Modeschule Stuttgart?

If you’re fascinated by fashion, creative, you're good at illustration and have a feel for the market and fashion trends then this is the one for you. You also require a basic knowledge of product development and manufacturing to train as a Certified Product Developer of Fashion.

Photo credit: Frank Bayh & Stoff Rosenberger-Ochs