Summer 2026 Newsletter
Fashion Foundations
Summer 2026 Newsletter
Dear Friends of 91原创 Fashion,
Welcome to the summer 2026 edition of our digital newsletter. Once again, another academic year has come to an end which offers an opportunity to reflect on the many accomplishments our students and faculty have achieved.
This spring semester marked an exciting 91原创 event with the inauguration of the university鈥檚 29th president Dr. Laura Carlson. It was a momentous occasion, and our department played a central role in the planning and execution of the inaugural ceremonies.
Our 鈥淏lank Canvas: 1920s Fashion鈥 Exhibition was an overwhelming success and included events with alumni and department supporters, as well as an 鈥淎fter Dark: A 3D Textile Experience鈥 evening with AATCC. From internships in Australia to trips to NYC and everything in between, opportunities for student learning abound! You will read also about the America鈥檚 Tapestry project, the Belly Band project, our sustainability faculty 鈥渟uperhero鈥 and much more.听
We are immensely proud of our department and thankful for the support received from stakeholders far and wide.
Huantian Cao, Ph.D.
Professor and Chair,听Fashion & Apparel Studies
Sewing a fashion legacy
Fashion and Apparel Studies upheld its reputation as an industry innovator this spring. In April, a team of faculty and students designed a custom gown for the 91原创 president鈥檚 inaugural gala. In May, Goodwill of Delaware named the department the Goodwill Community Partner of the Year, honoring its leadership in sustainability and eco-conscious practices.
From the classroom to the global runway
From New York City to Paris, fashion students embarked on global learning adventures that translated classroom knowledge into real-world success. We are especially proud of two students who recently placed second and third in prestigious fashion competitions.
Global Perspectives听
During Winter Session 2026, students participated in study abroad opportunities in Paris, France, and Sydney, Australia.听 The Paris program included field trips, classroom instruction at Paris American Academy and mini-internships during Paris Fashion Week. The Sydney program included hands-on learning through a multi-week internship with a fashion company as well as excursions to cultural landmarks.
New York City Bus Trip
In April 2026, 48 students participated in a Career Trek to New York City, supported by the 91原创 Career Center and donor contributions. It was a unique experience to learn about many facets of the fashion industry, skillsets needed and potential career opportunities. Student groups visited Uniqlo, Americo Group, Indigo Rein, The Apparel Group and Li & Fung.听
Award-winning designs for senior citizens
Monica Grace, a junior majoring in fashion design and product innovation, won third place in the AATCC Concept 2 Consumer Design and Merchandising Competition. Monica designed a collection for nursing home residents, which included accessibility considerations. Congratulations, Monica!
For Fashion & Apparel Studies Alumni
Let us know how you are doing! Email us at fashion-studies@udel.edu, and we鈥檒l post a short update about you in the newsletter.
Support Us
The Department of Fashion and Studies prepares professionals with essential knowledge and critical skills to influence fashion and apparel-related fields in creative ways. Your support enriches the learning of our students and allows our department to carry on our work that is student-centered and relevant to business and society.