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    TAFE NSW Fashion Design Studio (FDS)

    A woman with a tattoo sews green dragonfly-printed fabric at a sewing machine.

    Fashion Design Studio (FDS) opened in 1955 and has grown to become a leading design institution. It is one of the top-ranked fashion design schools in the world and partners with TAFE NSW.

    Paving the way in design

    Widely recognised internationally, the Fashion Design Studio (FDS) boasts alumni such as:

    • Dion Lee
    • Nicky Zimmermann
    • Akira Isogawa
    • Alex Perry
    • Bianca Spender

    The FDS is the only fashion school in Australia to be invited to participate in one of the most important calendar dates for the industry, Australian Fashion Week.

    If you’re an aspiring fashion designer keen to develop your skills and launch a successful career in the industry, enrol in a FDS course.

    Find a course

    Courses offered at Fashion Design Studio

    A woman works on fashion design sketches at a wooden table, with materials and design tools around her.

    Bachelor of Fashion Design

    The Bachelor of Fashion Design is a three-year program. You’ll refine your artistic and creative style, gain global perspective, complete work placements and showcase a final collection.

    A young man points to fashion design sketches pinned to a wall.

    Diploma of Fashion

    In the Diploma of Fashion you will learn about textiles, design, illustration, branding and marketing. Gain practical and theoretical experience and apply creative design principles to the fashion industry.

    A woman sits at a desk working on some fashion design sketches. There are designs pinned up on the wall behind her, and an art easel is in front to her left. There is a mannequin on her right side with a measuring tape draped over it.

    Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (Fashion Design)

    The Certificate III in Design Fundamentals (Fashion Design) builds foundational skills covering illustration and colour theory, technical production sketches and Computer Aided Design.

    Meet our teachers

    • Black and white headshot of Andrea Cainero, smiling.
      Testimonial Andrea has over 17 years' experience in the fashion industry and runs her own label, costume design and styling business. As an award-winning milliner, she brings a keen eye for detail and an adaptable, design-solutions approach to her classes.
      Andrea CaineroCo-head of School, The Fashion Design Studio TAFE NSW
    • Black and white headshot of Holly Siles, smiling.
      Testimonial Holly has worked as a designer in the fashion industry for over 18 years. She brings extensive experience and deep industry knowledge to the classroom. Holly has won numerous awards throughout her career.
      Holly SilesTeacher Fashion Design
    • Black and white headshot of Laura Washington, smiling.
      Testimonial Laura is the head teacher at FDS. She has enjoyed a varied career in the fashion industry. She is passionate about sustainable design strategies that span social, ethical and economic fashion issues.
      Laura WashingtonCo-head of School, The Fashion Design Studio TAFE NSW

    Alumni

    • Black and white headshot of Akira Isogawa.
      Testimonial Akira Isogawa is one of Australia’s most influential designers. His contemporary work, multiple awards and long career have made him a major contributor to the growth and global profile of the Australian fashion industry.
      Akira IsogawaFashion designer
    • Black and white headshot of Alex Perry, smiling.
      Testimonial Alex Perry began his fashion career at TAFE NSW before launching his first atelier. Known for design excellence, creativity and elegance, he has become one of Australia’s most successful designers with an enduring global presence.
      Alex PerryFashion designer
    • Black and white headshot of Nicky Zimmermann, smiling.
      Testimonial Nicky Zimmermann co‑founded the award‑winning Zimmermann label, now recognised globally. A leader in Australian fashion, she has contributed to industry growth through advisory roles and her commitment to strengthening Australia’s fashion presence.
      Nicky ZimmermannCo-founder and fashion designer

    Fashion Design Studio

    Launch your career in fashion design guided by the expertise and innovation of the Fashion Design Studio at TAFE NSW.

    Get in touch to explore our courses and take the first step toward becoming a leader in the fashion industry.

    Email us
    The Fashion Design Studio logo.