Calendar of Events and Deadlines

Spring 2024 Student Contests and Industry-Sponsored Projects

“Pitch FIT-FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition”
Students are tasked to develop video pitch decks and presentations promoting new entrepreneurial business concepts, social entrepreneurship and new business concepts through projects, products, and services.  Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two total submissions for the contest. In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 “Pitch FIT - FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition” Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Pitch FIT-FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition Timeline

Week of February 12, 2024                                Contest Launch
March 5, 2024                                                         On Campus contest launch event
Weeks of March 11 and March 18, 2024       On Campus workshops for students
April 1, 2024                           11:59pm                 Student Consent Form Deadline
April 1, 2024                           11:59pm                 Round 1 Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 15, 2024                                         Round 2 Finalists Announced
Week of April 22, 2024                                        Round 2 Student Designs Submission Deadline
May 7, 2024                                                             Final Presentations and Winners Announcement

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest 
Fabriq Labs is challenging FIT students to design an NFT under the established guidelines. Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission which constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two submissions (each NFT will be a separate submission). In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Timeline

Week of February 5, 2024                                 Contest Launch
Week of February 19-April 1, 2024                On Campus workshops for students
April 12, 2024                        11:59pm                Student Consent Form Deadline
April 12, 2024                        11:59pm                Round 1 Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 15, 2024                                        Round 2 Finalists Announced
Week of April 22, 2024                                       Round 2 Student Designs Submission Deadline
April 29, 2024                                                        Final Presentations and Winners Announcement

Constitution Day Postcard Competition
Students are asked to design the front and back of a postcard (3X5 or 4X6 inches) that illustrates their beliefs about any part of the United States Constitution. They can put anything they like on the front. The back must have two columns, like a typical postcard; the left column should include a paragraph or two explaining the visual statement on the front of the card, and the right column should leave room for an address and stamp.  In order to enter this competition, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 Constitution Day Postcard Contest Student Consent Form and include their submission as an attachment at the bottom of the document. Submission deadline is April 1, 2024. For more information regarding the design of the postcard please contract Professor Daniel Levinson Wilk ([email protected]), who is overseeing the contest. 

Constitution Day Postcard Competition Timeline

February 1, 2024           Competition Start Date
April 1, 2024                    Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
April 2024                        Judging Day
Late April 2024              Winners Announcement

“Pitch FIT-FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition”
Students are tasked to develop video pitch decks and presentations promoting new entrepreneurial business concepts, social entrepreneurship and new business concepts through projects, products, and services.  Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two total submissions for the contest. In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 “Pitch FIT - FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition” Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Pitch FIT-FIT’s Student Entrepreneurship Pitch Competition Timeline

Week of February 12, 2024                                Contest Launch
March 5, 2024                                                         On Campus contest launch event
Weeks of March 11 and March 18, 2024       On Campus workshops for students
April 1, 2024                           11:59pm                 Student Consent Form Deadline
April 1, 2024                           11:59pm                 Round 1 Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 15, 2024                                         Round 2 Finalists Announced
Week of April 22, 2024                                        Round 2 Student Designs Submission Deadline
May 7, 2024                                                             Final Presentations and Winners Announcement

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest 
Fabriq Labs is challenging FIT students to design an NFT under the established guidelines. Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission which constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two submissions (each NFT will be a separate submission). In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Timeline

Week of February 5, 2024                                 Contest Launch
Week of February 19-April 1, 2024                On Campus workshops for students
April 12, 2024                        11:59pm                Student Consent Form Deadline
April 12, 2024                        11:59pm                Round 1 Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 15, 2024                                        Round 2 Finalists Announced
Week of April 22, 2024                                       Round 2 Student Designs Submission Deadline
April 29, 2024                                                         Final Presentations and Winners Announcement

FM 422 (Merchandise Strategies Capstone Project) Ann Taylor Industry-Sponsored Project
This is a class project where senior students will create a brand merchandise strategy plus marketing development of the strategy idea for Ann Taylor. The project allows the students to think critically and analyze financially a retail business. The students are then able to creatively consider a new strategy or idea for the sponsor company.  When the students graduate and transition to industry this skill will be highly utilized. As a merchant or retail /wholesale executive creating strategy is a highly coveted skill. This contest involves over 250 students across all sections of FM 422 Merchandising Strategies course.

FM 422 Merchandise Strategies Capstone Project Timeline

March 11, 2024        6:00pm-8:00pm      Presentation / Information Session
May 6, 2024                    11:59pm                 Student Consent Forms Deadline
May 13, 2024                                                     Final Projects Submission Deadline
Week of May 20, 2024                                  Judging Day and Winners Announcement

IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Design Contest 
The IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest is a joint industry-sponsored project held in partnership between InterContinental Hotels Group and FIT’s School of Art & Design. The objective is to create a tennis ball dress that will be on display and modeled throughout the 2024 US Open tennis tournament drawing spectators to the designated IHG sponsor areas. The dress must be made by incorporating tennis balls/ tennis ball material, be wearable by a model, and embraces the IHG and US Open tennis tournament brand. Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2024 IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Forms and submitting your design to faculty mentor.  For further information please contact Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest Timeline

March 12, 2024              1:00pm              Information Session Recording
May 1, 2024                     11:59pm            Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
Week of May 8, 2024                                Finalists Notified
July 31, 2024                    5:00pm           Complete Garments Submission Deadline
Week of August 7, 2024                          Judging Day and Winners Announcement

New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest
​This contest is designed in conjunction with NYSR to highlight some of the more talented rendering students in the Interior Design Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology.​ The contest ​promotes technical excellence and creativity in the rendering of student's designs.​ The renderings can be done in any media. Hybrid and hand rendering styles ​are​ encouraged.  In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact Professor Sven Johnson ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest Timeline

February 6, 2024                              Competition Start Date
March 21, 2024      11:59pm          Student Consent Form and  Project Submission Deadline
April 8, 2024                                      Judging Day and Winners Announcement

QI-Collective Metaverse Design Competition
QI-Collective is sponsoring the Metaverse Design Competition that allows students to explore all the opportunities and alternatives for a career in fashion and digital entrepreneurship. The digital mindset brings new business models and roles to be explored by fashion designers. Creating a Metaverse Collection allows students to create within their psyche and express freely how they feel about everything and how this expression relates to society. The intersection of fashion and technology is essential in understanding the social impact of what is being created in virtual environments such as the metaverse. Students are challenged to think like the architects and designers of these virtual spaces and encourage them to think and be entrepreneurial. Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2024 QI Collective Metaverse Design Competition Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor  Andrea Diodati ([email protected]) , who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

QI-Collective Metaverse Collection Student Design Contest Timeline

February 15, 2024            1:00pm                Information Session Recording
March 6, 2024                 11:59pm                Concept Submission and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 13, 2024                                                1st round finalists announced
Week of March 18, 2024                               Due date for 1st round designs , mood boards, sketches, swatches
Week of April 1, 2024                                     Round 1 Mentorship Meetings
April 8, 2024                                                      Tech Pack Submission
Week of April 8, 2024                                    Tech Pack Mentorship Meetings
April 22, 2024                                                   3D Cads Submission
Week of April 22, 2024                                  3D Cads Mentorship Meetings
Week of  May 20, 2024                                  Protos Received
Week of June 3, 2024                                    Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Supima Design Competition
America’s top design schools select one graduating senior to represent their respective school as a finalist to compete in the Supima Design Competition for a $10,000 cash prize and exposure to fashion press, social media influencers and fashion industry executives. Finalists are challenged to create a womens wear capsule collection using premium SUPIMA cotton fabrics. Working with a prominent fashion designer as mentor, students have the opportunity to learn what design elements translate to the runway and what will resonate with the judges. A prestigious panel of judges from the fashion and media world is charged with selecting a winner. Interested students must fill out the 2024 Supima Design Competition Application. For further information please contact Professor Susanna Moyer ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Supima Design Competition Timeline

March 18, 2024   1:00pm       Presentation/Information Session
April 22, 2024                            Due date for 2024 Supima Design Competition Application
Week of April 23, 2024           Selection Interviews
April 29, 2024                             FIT selects/announces a finalist
Week of May 6, 2024              Orientation call with SUPIMA
May 13, 2024                              Due date for first sketches and color story
Week of May 13, 2024            Due date for mood board, collection inspiration and collection plan
Week of June 24, 2024          Due date for final sketches and color story
July 10 and 11, 2024               Due date for gowns for in person first fitting
Week of July 24, 2024           SUPIMA to provide dyed fabrics
September 2-5, 2024            Final model fitting 
September 5, 2024                Judging and New York Fashion Week Runway Show
October 18, 2024                    Fashion presentation in Paris

Underfashion Club 2024 Student Design Contest
The Underfashion Club and its Scholarships, Awards, Internships and Grants (SAIG”) Committee are sponsoring a design competition that will be held in conjunction with the UFC Femmy Gala, the premier event of the Intimate Apparel Industry. Student contest submissions will consist of  modern, comfortable, sexy, and fun intimate apparel thoughtfully designed and created specifically for the Underfashion Club's theme “Creative Recycling for a Sustainable Fashion Future”.  Students can use the following link to view  the photo images (front and back views) of three garments as well as body lace, leg trim and waist trim and "faux leather leggings" on the The Underfashion Club's Website. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Underfashion Club 2023 Student Design Contest Timeline

November 14 , 2023          1:00pm        Information Session Recording
January 5, 2024                 11:59pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
January 9 , 2024                                        Semi-Finalists Selection and Announcement
February 5, 2024                                       Due date for sewn garments (Completed Without Hems and Minor Finishing Details)
February 14,  2024                                    Finalists Selection and Announcement
March 11, 2024                                           Review of Completed Garments       
Week of March 17, 2024                         Photoshoot of Completed Garments
April-May                                                     Virtual Garment Exhibition and Winners Announcement

Theraplant Cannabis Brand Concept Student Design Contest
This contest a joint industry-sponsored project held in partnership between Theraplant and FIT’s School of Art & Design. This project will put into practice the brand strategy and packaging design principles studied in the co-requisite courses PK354 and PK319. Students will develop the brand name which must start with the letter “A", logo(s) which must be no more than three colors (in addition to black and white) and must be easily identifiable in the dimensions of 1 in. x 1 in, a custom 1/8th ounce cannabis mylar bag front panel design, a custom jar label design (5 in. x 2 in.) incorporating the 1 in. x 1 in. logo on the front panel and a brand style guide with typography, colors and logo standards for digital applications.  For further information please contact Professor Sonia Sussman ([email protected]) or Sandra Krasovec ([email protected]), who are the faculty mentors overseeing the contest. 

Theraplant Cannabis Brand Concept Student Design Contest Timeline

Week of February 12, 2024                          Presentation/Information Session
March 1, 2024                    11:59pm              Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 4, 2024                                                  Color digitals due to Faculty Mentor
March 11, 2024                                                 Presentation of designs by students 
March 18, 2024                                                Winners Announcement

We Stand As One for Pride Student Design Contest
WestPoint Home partnered with FIT in order to celebrate, elevate and commemorate PRIDE. Pride is a joyful celebration of all the beautiful identities of our LGBTQ+ community. A worldwide movement and philosophy asserting that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender and queer (LGBTQ) individuals should be proud of their sexual orientation and gender identity. Despite the profound emotional and physical pains, and the bullying, violence, intimidation, and shaming that many LGBTQ individuals have endured, the collective decision to unite and declare #LoveWins is the ultimate example of progress. How can we spotlight this movement authentically in the way that we decorate our homes? Representational and abstract ideas based on this theme are welcome and students are free to apply their own interpretation in representing the overall theme.  Products will be showcased in WestPoint Home’s September Market ’23 showroom.  For further information please contact Professor Ruth Jeyaveeran ([email protected]), who is the student mentor overseeing the contest. 

We Stand As One for Pride Student Design Contest Timeline

Week of April 1, 2024                                      Presentation/Information Session
Week of April 8, 2024      11:59pm              Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
May 1, 2024                                                        Mid-point check-in and guidance session with contestants
May 8, 2024                                                       Due date for final designs including a design statement
May 15, 2024                                                     Presentation of designs by students 
Week of May 20, 2024                                  Winners Announcement

ED523 (Exhibition Design for the Museum Setting) “The Wheel of Life” Exhibition Project 
This educational project is a joint collaboration between FIT's Exhibition and Experience Design MA Department and Rubin Museum of Art.  The student objective of this project is to undertake the subject of utilizing content and collections as determined by the museum so as to understand how exhibits are developed and physically interpreted within a museum exhibition environment. Students will be responsible for adhering to all rules and requirements of a museum venue, developed by the faculty instructor in collaboration with the Rubin Museum of Art. For further information please contact Professor Brenda Cowan ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED523 “The Wheel of Life” Exhibition Project Timeline

February 7, 2024                     Site visit to the Rubin Museum of Art
February 14, 2024                   Rubin Museum of Art Administrators Interviews
March 13,  2024                       Midpoint concept designs are submitted for museum's review and comments
May 8, 2024                              Final design presentations to museum project team

ED531 (Presentation Techniques) Activation Project for Pinnacle and Sony Honda Mobility 
Pinnacle and Sony Honda Mobility are seeking proposals for experiential activations to drive brand awareness, social media engagement, and press coverage of their AFEELA prototype to encourage pre-orders, and are partnering with FIT's Graduate Exhibition & Experience Design Department to design a design an experiential activation for deployment to key cities in target markets: Los Angeles, Austin, and New York City. Through this process students will learn professional design and pre-production processes for pre-production of experiential marketing activations.  For further information please contact Professor Pedro Mota ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED531 Pinnacle and Sony Honda Mobility Project Timeline

February 6, 2024                                     Introductory Project Presentation
March 19 and March 21,  2024          Midpoint Design Review Presentation
April 30 and May 02, 2024                 Final Concept and Technical Deck Presentations

ED542 (Exhibition Design Graphics) Graphic Placemaking and Wayfinding Design Project for Gotham Park including Brooklyn Banks Skate Park
ED 542 explores graphic design communication systems, including graphic identity and program development. Imagery and typographic solutions, with an emphasis on two- and three-dimensional design development, are covered.  This class project was developed in collaboration with the Gotham Park New York City.  The objective of this project is to introduce students to wayfinding and signage design through the proposal of concepts for wayfinding signage and related components for a client. Working with the client representatives, students will first document the types of existing signage, and create a graphic signage and wayfinding design package. For further information please contact Exhibition and Experience Design Department Chair Christina Lyons ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED542 Gotham Park Project Timeline

March 4, 2024                       Site Visit, Survey and Client Review Scope Meeting
April 8,  2024                         Midpoint Design Review Presentation
May 13, 2024                         Final Concept Design Presentation

Constitution Day Postcard Competition
Students are asked to design the front and back of a postcard (3X5 or 4X6 inches) that illustrates their beliefs about any part of the United States Constitution. They can put anything they like on the front. The back must have two columns, like a typical postcard; the left column should include a paragraph or two explaining the visual statement on the front of the card, and the right column should leave room for an address and stamp.  In order to enter this competition, interested students must fill out the Spring 2024 Constitution Day Postcard Contest Student Consent Form and include their submission as an attachment at the bottom of the document. Submission deadline is April 1, 2024. For more information regarding the design of the postcard please contract Professor Daniel Levinson Wilk ([email protected]), who is overseeing the contest. 

Constitution Day Postcard Competition Timeline

February 1, 2024           Competition Start Date
April 1, 2024                    Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
April 2024                        Judging Day
Late April 2024              Winners Announcement

Fall 2023 Student Contests and Industry-Sponsored Projects

BVLGARI - The Art of Living with Allegra Baciami Passioné Project Student Design Contest
FIT is partnering with BVLGARI, on The Art of Living with Allegra Baciami Passioné Student Design Contest. Students are presented with an opportunity to develop and design a work that elicits the emotion and passion of the Allegra Baciami Eau de Parfum while recognizing Bulgari’s history, heritage and dedication to the company’s Italian culture. The parameters surrounding the works are open-ended but should be expressed through the typical medium utilized in the student’s major.  You can use the following link for research and inspiration: The Art of Living with Allegra Baciami Passioné Project BVLGARI PowerPoint as well as an FAQ PDF for your reference. Students can enter the contest by filling out Winterim 2024 BULGARI - The Art of Living with Allegra Baciami Passioné Project Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design(s) via email to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Illustration and Interactive Media Professor Lily Qian ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest.

BULGARI - The Art of Living with Allegra Baciami Passioné Project Student Design Contest Timeline

November  21, 2023       1:00pm        Information Session Recording
December 18, 2023         11:59pm     Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
Week of January 1, 2024                      Finalists Notified
February 1, 2024                                     Deadline for Complete Designs Submission with hi-res PDF or .TIF files.
February 9, 2024                                    Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 201 Creative Think Tank Initiative at the Parade Studio
Every year, the full Branded Entertainment team works together to produce the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade for the country. The Design team creates one-of-a-kind physical elements to represent brands brought in by Partnership Marketing. Project Management keeps the Studio Production team on schedule as they custom build the designs. The Creative Production team develops entertainment & storytelling initiatives for the telecast. Operations manages logistics and agency partners to ensure a safe, seamless event. And Advertising works with Creative to ensure the public is excited for the Parade. All to say - the Parade is, at its core, a collaborative effort.​ FIT Students will have a professional development opportunity like no other - to learn from these teams by participating in a real-world application of how ​Macy's develop​s creativ​e on behalf of a partner. In this case, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, itself.​ The goal is to create a platform to hear student’s unique voices and creative visions​. Each student group will develop and present a complete Parade segment to Macy's Branded Entertainment. The ​Macy's team will offer personalized feedback and student groups will respond with updated creative—modeling the creative development process.  In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Fall 2023 Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 201 Creative Think Tank Initiative at the Parade Studio Form. For further information please contact Illustration and Interactive Media Department Chair Daniel Shefelman ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the project. 

Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 201 Creative Think Tank Initiative at the Parade Studio Timeline

December 8, 2023                   11:59pm          Due date for Student Consent Forms
Week of February 5, 2024                                Official Parade 201 kick-off with Macy’s and FIT to present creative brief and answer questions
Feburary 5-28                                                       Teams collaborate on developing proposals for parade float, balloon and performance
February 28-29, 2024                                       Pitch Day + Studio Visit
February 28-29, 2024                                       2-day live event at Macy’s Parade Studio

FM 422 (Merchandise Strategies Capstone Project) Steve Madden Industry-Sponsored Project
FM422 Merchandise Strategies Capstone is a class project where senior students will create a brand merchandise strategy plus marketing development of the strategy idea for Steve Madden. The project allows the students to think critically and analyze financially a retail business. The students are then able to creatively consider a new strategy or idea for the sponsor company. When the students graduate and transition to industry this skill will be highly utilized. As a merchant or retail /wholesale executive creating strategy is a highly coveted skill. This contest involves over 150 students across all sections of FM 422 Merchandising Strategies course.

FM 422 Merchandise Strategies Capstone Project Timeline

October 18, 2023           6:00pm-8:00pm     Presentation / Information Session
December 1, 2023                11:59pm                Student Consent Forms Deadline
December 11, 2023              11:59pm                Final Projects Submission Deadline
December 18, 2023                                              Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Underfashion Club 2024 Student Design Contest
The Underfashion Club and its Scholarships, Awards, Internships and Grants (SAIG”) Committee are sponsoring a design competition that will be held in conjunction with the UFC Femmy Gala, the premier event of the Intimate Apparel Industry. Student contest submissions will consist of  modern, comfortable, sexy, and fun intimate apparel thoughtfully designed and created specifically for the Underfashion Club's theme “Creative Recycling for a Sustainable Fashion Future”.  Students can use the following link to view  the photo images (front and back views) of three garments as well as body lace, leg trim and waist trim and "faux leather leggings" on the The Underfashion Club's Website. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Underfashion Club 2023 Student Design Contest Timeline

November 14 , 2023          1:00pm        Information Session Recording
January 5, 2024                 11:59pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
January 9 , 2024                                        Semi-Finalists Selection and Announcement
February 5, 2024                                       Due date for sewn garments (Completed Without Hems and Minor Finishing Details)
February 14,  2024                                    Finalists Selection and Announcement
March 11, 2024                                           Review of Completed Garments       
Week of March 17, 2024                         Photoshoot of Completed Garments
April-May                                                     Virtual Garment Exhibition and Winners Announcement

The Future of Morilee – Celebrating 70 Years of an Iconic Brand Student Design Contest
This year Morilee by Madeline Gardner celebrates its 70th year anniversary and in celebration, is partnering with FIT to design one dress focusing on the future of the brand into the next 70 years. The design should be in line with the current Morilee aesthetic and incorporate two elements signifying this special anniversary: Platinum and Roses.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Fall 2023 The Future of Morilee – Celebrating 70 Years of an Iconic Brand Student Design Contest Rules and Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]) who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

The Future of Morilee Student Design Contest Timeline

September 26, 2023       1:00pm        Information Session Recording
October 23, 2023            11:59pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
October 30, 2023                                    Finalists Notified
January 29, 2024                                    Complete Designs Submission Deadline
February 27, 2024                                   Judging Day and Winners Announcement

The Curvy Awards by OneStopPlus Student Design Contest
OneStopPlus (OSP) is partnering with FIT once again to guide & inspire the future generations of fashion designers and to continue an inclusive legacy that serves the majority of American women, 70% of whom wear size 14 and up. FIT's School of Art & Design 4th, 5th, 6th and 7th semester fashion design students are eligible to compete in a project in order to design a garment for one of OSP's brands (students choose which brand) and serves an inclusive size range 12W-32W.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Fall 2023 Curvy Awards by OneStopPlus Student Design Contest  Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Gerard Dellova ([email protected]) who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

The Curvy Awards by OneStopPlus Student Design Contest  Timeline

September 28, 2023         1:00pm        Information Session Recording
November 1, 2003              5:00pm       Student Consent Forms Deadline
November 13, 2003           5:00pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches 
November 30, 2003                                 Judging Day and Winners Announcement

The RealReal x FIT Student Upcycled Collection Design Contest
The RealReal is partnering with FIT on a contest  to keep unwearable items out of landfills and in circulation by designing and producing a coat using The RealReal’s inventory of clothing and accessories unfit for sale in their current condition. The available supply consists of designer items made of quality materials that are suited for a second life. The items are to be upcycled into a brand new garment.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Fall 2023 The RealReal x FIT Student Upcycled Collection Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Bernadette Grinley ([email protected]) who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

The RealReal x FIT Student Upcycled Collection Design Contest Timeline

September 14, 2023       1:00pm        Information Session Recording
October 9, 2023              11:59pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
October 17, 2023                                     Finalists Notified
December 5, 2023                                  Complete Designs Submission Deadline
Week of December 5, 2023                Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Loro Piana Knit Design Award
The Loro Piana Knit Design Award is an international contest established in 2016, dedicated to talented students from leading design schools around the world. The students are given the opportunity to gain first-hand experience of the Loro Piana’s work and superlative quality and the chance to come up with a creative interpretation of some of the iconic yarns that encapsulate Loro Piana's renowned excellence and the possibility to create the prototype of their project as well. This Knit Design Award contest is part of a longstanding collaboration with design schools, business schools and universities and is a unique opportunity to ensure that craftsmanship and technical expertise are passed on to future generations. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Tom Scott ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Loro Piana Knit Design Award Timeline

October 19, 2023      11:00am       Company Presentation / Information Session
October 26, 2023      8:00am       Yarns Presentation
October 30, 2023      6:30am       Touch Base and Brief: Loro Piana introduction and Brief assignment
November  1,  2023    11:59pm     Student Consent Forms Deadline
January 2024                                     Due Date for International Competition Programs Application
February 2024                                   Re–Touch: Videoconference work in progress review
April 2024                                            Your Personal Touch: Students’ projects presentation
May 2024                                             Sketch to Touch: Winner project realization with Loro Piana Knitting Lab and Manifattura Loro Piana
June 2024                                           Touch Down: Pitti Filati fair and award ceremony.

QI-Collective Metaverse Design Competition
QI-Collective is sponsoring the Metaverse Design Competition that allows students to explore all the opportunities and alternatives for a career in fashion and digital entrepreneurship. The digital mindset brings new business models and roles to be explored by fashion designers. Creating a Metaverse Collection allows students to create within their psyche and express freely how they feel about everything and how this expression relates to society. The intersection of fashion and technology is essential in understanding the social impact of what is being created in virtual environments such as the metaverse. Students are challenged to think like the architects and designers of these virtual spaces and encourage them to think and be entrepreneurial. Students can enter the contest by filling out Fall 2023 QI Collective Metaverse Design Competition Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor  Andrea Diodati ([email protected]) , who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

QI-Collective Metaverse Design Competition Timeline

September 21, 2023             1:00pm               Information Session Recording
October 16, 2023                   11:59pm             Concept Submission
October 16, 2023                   11:59pm             Student Consent Forms Deadline
October 18, 2023                                                 1st round finalists announced
October 26, 2023                  11:59pm             Due date for 1st round designs , mood boards, sketches, swatches
Week of October 30 2023                                Round 1 Mentorship Meetings
November 14, 2023              11:59pm             Tech Pack Submission
Week of November 14, 2023                           Tech Pack Mentorship Meetings
December  11, 2023              11:59pm             3D Cads Submission
Week of December  11, 2023                           3D Cads Mentorship Meetings
Week of  January 15,  2023                              Protos Received
Week of January 22, 2023                               Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Supima Design Competition
America’s top design schools select one graduating senior to represent their respective school as a finalist to compete in the Supima Design Competition for a $10,000 cash prize and exposure to fashion press, social media influencers and fashion industry executives. Finalists are challenged to create a womens wear capsule collection using premium SUPIMA cotton fabrics. Working with a prominent fashion designer as mentor, students have the opportunity to learn what design elements translate to the runway and what will resonate with the judges. A prestigious panel of judges from the fashion and media world is charged with selecting a winner. Interested students must fill out the 2023 Supima Design Competition Application. For further information please contact Fashion Art Professor Susanna Moyer ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Supima Design Competition Timeline

March 23, 2023   1:00pm       Information Session Recording
April 21, 2023                              Due date for 2023 Supima Design Competition Application
Week of April 24, 2023            Selection Interviews
April 28, 2023                             FIT selects/announces a finalist
May 2023                                     SUPIMA to provide sample fabrics
Week of May 8, 2023              Due date for mood board, collection inspiration and collection plan
Week of May 8, 2023              Orientation call with SUPIMA
May 15, 2023                              Due date for first sketches and color story
June 22, 2023                            Due date for final sketches and color story
July 13, 2023                              Due date for gowns for muslin fitting
Week of July 24, 2023            SUPIMA to provide dyed fabrics
September 4-6, 2023             Final model fitting 
September 7, 2023                  Judging and New York Fashion Week Runway Show
October 18, 2023                      Fashion presentation in Paris

Spring 2023 Student Contests and Industry-Sponsored Projects

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest 
Fabriq Labs is challenging FIT students to design an NFT under the established guidelines. Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission which constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two submissions (each NFT will be a separate submission). In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 (Fabriq Labs) Web3 NFT Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either  Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Timeline

Week of March 19, 2023                      Contest Launch
Week of March 26-April 11, 2023     On Campus workshops for students
Week of  April 16-April 23, 2023       Continued on-campus educational sessions
April 28, 2023                 11:59pm        Student Consent Form Deadline
April 28, 2023                 11:59pm        Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 30, 2023                        Judging Day and Winners Announcement

DRESSX 3D Utopia/Dystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest
DRESSX  is sponsoring a contest called 3D UtopiaDystopia: Imagining Our Future.  They want to see what digital outfit FIT students would design and 3-D model in an imagined utopic or dystopic future.  The contest is open to all currently enrolled FIT students with 3D modeling experience. What kind of clothing will we need to wear to accommodate our changing earth in 100+ years? Students must have knowledge of 3-D modeling and access to 3d software to enter.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 DressX 3D UtopiaDystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentors. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professors Dobriana Gheneva ([email protected]) and/or Andrea Diodati ([email protected]), who are the faculty mentors overseeing the contest. 

DRESSX 3D Utopia/Dystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest Timeline

March 16, 2023               1:00pm          Information Session Recording
May 12, 2023                   11:59pm         Student Consent Form Deadline
May 12, 2023                   11:59pm        Student Design Submission Deadline
Week of May 17, 2023                           Judging Day and Winners Announcement

NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition
National Football League Players Association continues to be a trusted resource for NFL players as they continue to engage their communities through social action and is partnering with FIT on a social justice t-shirt design competition. Students are tasked to submit their inspiring social justice t-shirt design and one (1) minute video that tells the story of their design, for a chance for one winner to have their design featured on t-shirts worn by NFL players during the 2023 training camp.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design via NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition Project Submission Form. For further information please contact Illustration and Interactive Media Department Chair Daniel Shefelman ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition Timeline

February 1, 2023                                 Competition Start Date
February 2, 2023       1:00pm          Information Session Recording
February 28, 2023    11:59pm        Student Consent Form Deadline
February 28, 2023    11:59pm        Student Design Submission Deadline
March 13 2023                                    Judging Day
March 17, 2023                                   Winners Announcement

Woolmark Performance Challenge
The Woolmark Performance Challenge is an annual competition for early career creative thinkers to develop innovative, forward- thinking product solutions for the sports and performance market, by harnessing the unique natural properties of Australian Merino wool. This challenge not only provides a unique learning experience for participants, but also awards the finalists and winners with opportunities for international travel, financial rewards, and potential for career development. The 2023 Category Brief is Design the future uniforms of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team and has been set by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli. In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 Woolmark Performance Challenge Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact International Trade & Marketing Department Chair Christine Pomeranz ([email protected]), who is overseeing the contest. 

Woolmark Performance Challenge Timeline

December 1, 2022                              Competition Registration Start Date
April 16, 2023            1:00pm           Information Session Recording
May 1, 2023                                          Submission Opens
July 16, 2023                                       Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
August 1, 2023                                    Finalists Notified
November 2023                                Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Constitution Day Postcard Competition
Students are asked to design the front and back of a postcard (3X5 or 4X6 inches) that illustrates their beliefs about any part of the United States Constitution. They can put anything they like on the front. The back must have two columns, like a typical postcard; the left column should include a paragraph or two explaining the visual statement on the front of the card, and the right column should leave room for an address and stamp.  In order to enter this competition, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 Constitution Day Postcard Contest Student Consent Form and include their submission as an attachment at the bottom of the document. Submission deadline is March 31, 2023. For more information regarding the design of the postcard please contract Professor Daniel Levinson Wilk ([email protected]), who is overseeing the contest. 

Constitution Day Postcard Competition Timeline

February 1, 2023           Competition Start Date
March 31, 2023              Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
April 2023                        Judging Day
Late April 2023              Winners Announcement

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest 
Fabriq Labs is challenging FIT students to design an NFT under the established guidelines. Students can submit both individually and as a team. If any team submission which constitutes more than one student, that prize will be split equally by the number of students that are part of that submission. Each student/team will be limited to two submissions (each NFT will be a separate submission). In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 (Fabriq Labs) Web3 NFT Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact either  Entrepreneurship (Business Enterprise) Department Chair William Reinisch ([email protected]) or Professor Renee Leibler ([email protected]), who are overseeing the contest.

Fabriq Labs Web3 NFT Student Contest Timeline

Week of March 19, 2023                      Contest Launch
Week of March 26-April 11, 2023     On Campus workshops for students
Week of  April 16-April 23, 2023       Continued on-campus educational sessions
April 28, 2023                 11:59pm        Student Consent Form Deadline
April 28, 2023                 11:59pm        Student Designs Submission Deadline
Week of April 30, 2023                        Judging Day and Winners Announcement

FM422 Dick’s Sporting Goods Student Contest 
This is a class project where senior students will create a brand merchandise strategy plus marketing development of the strategy idea for Dick's Sporting Goods. The project allows the students to think critically and analyze financially a retail business. The students are then able to creatively consider a new strategy or idea for the sponsor company.  When the students graduate and transition to industry this skill will be highly utilized. As a merchant or retail /wholesale executive creating strategy is a highly coveted skill. This contest involves over 250 students across all sections of FM 422 Merchandising Strategies course.

FM 422 Merchandise Strategies Capstone Project Timeline

March 15, 2023        6:00pm-8:00pm      Presentation / Information Session
May 1, 2023                    11:59pm                  Student Consent Forms Deadline
May 6, 2023                                                      Final Projects Submission Deadline
May 19, 2023                                                    Judging Day and Winners Announcement

Woolmark Performance Challenge
The Woolmark Performance Challenge is an annual competition for early career creative thinkers to develop innovative, forward- thinking product solutions for the sports and performance market, by harnessing the unique natural properties of Australian Merino wool. This challenge not only provides a unique learning experience for participants, but also awards the finalists and winners with opportunities for international travel, financial rewards, and potential for career development. The 2023 Category Brief is Design the future uniforms of the Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli team and has been set by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli. In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 Woolmark Performance Challenge Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact International Trade & Marketing Department Chair Christine Pomeranz ([email protected]), who is overseeing the contest. 

Woolmark Performance Challenge Timeline

December 1, 2022                            Competition Registration Start Date
April 16, 2023             1:00pm        Information Session Recording
May 1, 2023                                        Submission Opens
July 16, 2023                                      Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
August 1, 2023                                   Finalists Notified
November 2023                               Judging Day and Winners Announcement

CM423 (Cosmetic and Fragrance Product Development Workshop)
CM423 (Cosmetic and Fragrance Product Development Workshop),  where students develop and implement strategies to create products in the cosmetics and fragrance industries. Emphasis is on determining the need for new entries in the market and the interdepartmental teamwork required to successfully launch a company's product. This semester FIT is launching Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL)  project. ​ The COIL project will give students the opportunity to collaborate with their peers studying at Nottingham Trent University NTU as well as ​a ​live client brief from Aromatherapy Associates​ Inc​. The project  also provides​ students ​with​ international and intercultural experience from within the classroom.  The most successful companies innovate to foster competitive advantage and discover new opportunities. The most innovative companies are collaborative.​​   Through this project students will develop their creative capabilities and further develop their collaborative working skills. 

IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest 
The IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest is a joint industry-sponsored project held in partnership between InterContinental Hotels Group and FIT’s School of Art & Design. The objective is to create a tennis ball dress that will be on display and modeled throughout the 2023 US Open tennis tournament drawing spectators to the designated IHG sponsor areas. The dress must be made by incorporating tennis balls/ tennis ball material, be wearable by a model, and embraces the IHG and US Open tennis tournament brand. Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest Rules and Student Consent Forms and submitting your design to faculty mentor.  For further information please contact Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

IHG US Open Tennis Ball Dress Student Contest Timeline

March 30, 2023              1:00pm              Information Session Recording
May 1, 2023                      11:59pm            Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
Week of May 8, 2023                                  Finalists Notified
July 31, 2023                    5:00pm             Complete Garments Submission Deadline
Week of August 7, 2023                            Judging Day and Winners Announcement

MadaLuxe Upcycling Student Design Contest
MadaLuxe Group is partnering with FIT on a contest to take Madaluxe Group’s damaged and unsellable, luxury product (bags, shoes, clothes, scarves, and other accessories) and design either a complete “look” OR a sculpture (e.g., home décor, furniture, etc.). Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 (MadaLuxe) Upcycling Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentor. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professor Nicole Benedetto ([email protected]) who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

MadaLuxe Upcycling Student Design Contest Timeline

March 22, 2023               12:00pm       Information Session Recording
April 4, 2023                      11:59pm      Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
April 7, 2023                                             Finalists Notified
May 8, 2023                                             Complete Designs Submission Deadline
Week of May 15, 2023                         Judging Day and Winners Announcement

DRESSX 3D Utopia/Dystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest
DRESSX  is sponsoring a contest called 3D UtopiaDystopia: Imagining Our Future.  They want to see what digital outfit FIT students would design and 3-D model in an imagined utopic or dystopic future.  The contest is open to all currently enrolled FIT students with 3D modeling experience. What kind of clothing will we need to wear to accommodate our changing earth in 100+ years? Students must have knowledge of 3-D modeling and access to 3d software to enter.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 DressX 3D UtopiaDystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design to faculty mentors. For further information please contact Fashion Design-Apparel Professors Dobriana Gheneva ([email protected]) and/or Andrea Diodati ([email protected]), who are the faculty mentors overseeing the contest. 

DRESSX 3D Utopia/Dystopia Imagining Our Future - Student Design Contest Timeline

March 16, 2023               1:00pm          Information Session Recording
May 12, 2023                   11:59pm         Student Consent Form Deadline
May 12, 2023                   11:59pm        Student Design Submission Deadline
Week of May 17, 2023                           Judging Day and Winners Announcement

NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition
National Football League Players Association continues to be a trusted resource for NFL players as they continue to engage their communities through social action and is partnering with FIT on a social justice t-shirt design competition. Students are tasked to submit their inspiring social justice t-shirt design and one (1) minute video that tells the story of their design, for a chance for one winner to have their design featured on t-shirts worn by NFL players during the 2023 training camp.  Students can enter the contest by filling out Spring 2023 NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form and submitting your design via NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition Project Submission Form. For further information please contact Illustration and Interactive Media Department Chair Daniel Shefelman ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

NFLPA Social Justice T-Shirt Student Design Competition Timeline

February 1, 2023                                 Competition Start Date
February 2, 2023       1:00pm          Information Session Recording
February 28, 2023    11:59pm        Student Consent Form Deadline
February 28, 2023    11:59pm        Student Design Submission Deadline
March 13 2023                                    Judging Day
March 17, 2023                                   Winners Announcement

“Raise A Tote To GlioLeo!” Shelby Kennedy's GlioLeo GBM Tote Bag Student Design Contest
GlioLeo Glioblastoma Foundation is partnering with FIT on a design contest and award. FIT students are challenged to design a stylish and practical tote bag for people with disabilities, particularly those with diminished function and strength in their hands and fingers. Students should consider the weight of the bag, the ability to use the bag with a weakened grip strength, and whether it’s a bag that is fashion-forward and stylish. The bag should also be able to carry items needed to get through a long treatment at the hospital such as water, snacks, cell phone, charger, diary/agenda, pen, and medications. GlioLeo will use proceeds from the sale of the bag to raise money for patients with brain cancer and their families; to donate to institutions for research purposes; and to raise awareness for glioblastoma (GBM).  For further information please contact Fashion Footwear and Accessories Department Chair Sarah Mullins ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

“Raise A Tote To GlioLeo!” Shelby Kennedy's GlioLeo GBM Tote Bag Student Design Contest Schedule

February 14, 2023      1:00pm        Information Session Recording
March 13, 2023          11:59pm       Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 17, 2023                                  Finalists Notified
April 27, 2023                                    Complete Designs Submission Deadline
Week of May 8, 2023                      Judging Day and Winners Announcement

With Love Halston Student Design Contest
With Love Halston offers students a chance to utilize their skills in supporting the development, with a particular focus on the Halston legacy and fashion vision, of a contemporary and sustainable capsule collection and constructed final garment, in conjunction with guidance and assistance from Halston senior executives and industry veterans.  In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 With Love Halston Student Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact Professor Michael Kaye ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

With Love Halston Student Design Contest Timeline

February 16, 2023    1:00pm       Information Session Recording
March 13, 2023        11:59pm      Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 17, 2023                                Finalists Notified
May 12, 2023                                    Complete Garments Submission Deadline
May 15, 2023                                    Judging Day and Winners Announcement
June 2023                                         Exhibition at FIT

Macy’s Flower Show Industry-Sponsored Project 
The Macy’s Flower Show Industry-Sponsored Project is a joint project held in partnership between Macy’s and FIT. This year, the Macy's Flower Show is making a statement — Big Dreams Bloom Here — and challenging FIT students to design a window display that embodies and celebrates their hopes and aspirations. The Macy’s floral extravaganza will transform the Herald Square flagship into a glamorous dreamscape flush with thousands of beautiful blossoms, featuring a dramatic takeover of the mezzanine starring Macy’s brand-new fragrance partner. With sleek floral displays, aspirational activations, and social-worthy photo ops, guests will experience a show beyond their wildest dreams. The designs can include garments, graphics, illustrations, sculptures, etc. Macy’s will display the winning team’s design in a window on 34th Street during the two-week Flower Show.  In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 Macy's Flower Show Industry-Sponsored Project Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact Professor Daniel Shefelman ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Macy’s Flower Show Industry-Sponsored Project Timeline

February 1, 2023                                Competition Start Date
February 9, 2023        1:00pm       Information Session
February 27, 2023     11:59pm      Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 3, 2023                                    Judging Day and Winners Announcement
March 22, 2023                                 Projects Due to Faculty Mentor
March 24, 2023                                 Projects due to Macy's team for installation
March 26, 2023                                 Macy's Flower Show Opens
April 9, 2023                                       Macy's Flower Show Closes

New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest
​This contest is designed in conjunction with NYSR to highlight some of the more talented rendering students in the Interior Design Department at the Fashion Institute of Technology.​ The contest ​promotes technical excellence and creativity in the rendering of student's designs.​ The renderings can be done in any media. Hybrid and hand rendering styles ​are​ encouraged.  In order to be able to participate in this challenge, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest Rules and Student Consent Form. For further information please contact Professor Sven Johnson ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

New York Society of Renderers Student Rendering Design Contest Timeline

February 6, 2023                              Competition Start Date
March 3, 2023      11:59pm            Student Consent Form and  Project Submission Deadline
March 27, 2023                                Judging Day and Winners Announcement

QI-Collective Incubator Brand Accelerator Student Contest
QI-Collective is sponsoring the Incubator Brand Accelerator Student Contest that allows students a chance to utilize their skills in supporting the development of a contemporary capsule collection, in conjunction with guidance and assistance from QI Collective senior executives and industry veterans. Final 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners in the Contest will receive cash prizes and the 1st place winner may have their design purchased, produced, and sold by QI Collective. For further information please contact Professor Nicole Benefield ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

QI-Collective Metaverse Collection Student Design Contest Timeline

February 9, 2023               1:00pm               Information Session Recording
March 9, 2023                   11:59pm              Due date for design/mood boards, sketches, swatches and Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 13, 2023                                                Finalists Announced
March 13, 2023                                                Consultation with Finalists
March 24, 2023                                               Tech Packs Due Date
April 30, 2023                                                  3D CAD Fittings Complete
May 22, 2023                                                   Proto Review / Final Presentations
May 30, 2023                                                   Winners Announcement

Supima Design Competition
America’s top design schools select one graduating senior to represent their respective school as a finalist to compete in the Supima Design Competition for a $10,000 cash prize and exposure to fashion press, social media influencers and fashion industry executives. Finalists are challenged to create a womens wear capsule collection using premium SUPIMA cotton fabrics. Working with a prominent fashion designer as mentor, students have the opportunity to learn what design elements translate to the runway and what will resonate with the judges. A prestigious panel of judges from the fashion and media world is charged with selecting a winner. Interested students must fill out the 2023 Supima Design Competition Application. For further information please contact Professor Susanna Moyer ([email protected]), who is the faculty mentor overseeing the contest. 

Supima Design Competition Timeline

March 23, 2023   1:00pm       Information Session Recording
April 21, 2023                              Due date for 2023 Supima Design Competition Application
Week of April 24, 2023            Selection Interviews
April 28, 2023                             FIT selects/announces a finalist
May 2023                                     SUPIMA to provide sample fabrics
Week of May 8, 2023              Due date for mood board, collection inspiration and collection plan
Week of May 8, 2023               Orientation call with SUPIMA
May 15, 2023                              Due date for first sketches and color story
June 22, 2023                            Due date for final sketches and color story
July 13, 2023                              Due date for gowns for muslin fitting
Week of July 24, 2023            SUPIMA to provide dyed fabrics
September 4-6, 2023             Final model fitting 
September 7, 2023                  Judging and New York Fashion Week Runway Show
October 18, 2023                      Fashion presentation in Paris

MF522 (Fashion CreationII: Elective Connect) MimakiUSA Student Contest 
MF522 (Fashion CreationII: Elective Connect), is a credit bearing class that allows for further exploration in relation to the individual student's thesis. It has two core projects, both of which use the work done in the elective spaces as a starting point for design of two 12-look collections. One look from each collection will be fully realized in materials informed by the data collected in the elective spaces. This year students taking the class will participate in MF522 (Fashion CreationIII: Elective Connect) MimakiUSA Student Contest where MimakiUSA will sponsor all the first year MFA students for spring 2023 Fashion Creation 2 class. Mimaki will provide printing services, quantity of 5 yards, to each student to create one garment. One student will be selected to win sponsorship for printing of their senior thesis collection for term Fall 2023- Spring 2024. Students will gain real-world experience in how to put an original print design into work with a digital printing service and then realize an actual garment utilizing the print. For further information please contact Professor Jun Jy Hong ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

MF522 (Fashion CreationIII: Elective Connect) MimakiUSA Student Contest Timeline

February 13, 2023            Mimaki Introduction & Review of Student Print Design Concept
February 23, 2023           Due date for sample files and print request forms
February 24, 2023           Student Consent Forms Deadline
March 7, 2023                   Student Sample Prints Review
March 17, 2023                 Due date for final print files and print request forms
April 7, 2023                      Students receive final 5 yd. prints from Mimaki
May 16, 2023                     Final garment due made in printed fabric. Final presentation with Mimaki representatives, class and professor

ED523 (Exhibition Design for the Museum Setting) The Lands We Live On Exhibition Project
This educational project is a joint collaboration between Exhibition and Experience Design MA Department and Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian.  The student objective of this project is to undertake the subject of utilizing content and collections as determined by the museum so as to understand how exhibits are developed and physically interpreted within a museum exhibition environment. Students will be responsible for adhering to all rules and requirements of a museum venue, developed by the faculty instructor in collaboration with the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian. For further information please contact Professor Brenda Cowan ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED523 The Lands We Live On Exhibition Project Timeline

February 8, 2023                     Site visit to the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
March 15,  2023                       Midpoint concept designs are submitted for museum's review and comments
May 10, 2023                            Final design presentations to museum project team

ED531 (Presentation Techniques) Pinnacle and Epic Games Project
Pinnacle is partnering with FIT Graduate Exhibition & Experience Design Department to design a pop-up exhibition for deployment to job fairs, gaming tournaments, and student events at college campuses throughout the United States. The exhibition should engage and excite students and prospective students around the cultural significance Epic Game’s flagship title, Fortnite, and industry-leading game development platform, Unreal Engine. Students will create a mood board, floor plan, elevations, renderings, digital model, technical deck, and narrative in collaboration with a world-class experiential agency and real-world client. Through this process students will learn professional design and pre-production processes for pre-production of experiential marketing activations and utilize Epic Game’s bleeding-edge 3D visualization tools.  For further information please contact Professor Pedro Mota ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED531 Pinnacle and Epic Games Project Project Timeline

February 1, 2023                   Introductory Project Presentation
March 8,  2023                      Midpoint Design Review Presentation
April 19, 2023                        Final Concept Design Presentation

ED542 (Exhibition Design Graphics) Wildlife Conservation Society Project
ED 542 explores graphic design communication systems, including graphic identity and program development. Imagery and typographic solutions, with an emphasis on two- and three-dimensional design development, are covered.  This class project was developed in collaboration with the Wildlife Conservation Society.  The objective of this project is to introduce students to wayfinding and signage design through the proposal of concepts for wayfinding signage and related components for a client. Working with the client representatives, students will first document the types of existing signage, and create a graphic signage and wayfinding design package. For further information please contact Exhibition and Experience Design Department Chair Christina Lyons ([email protected]), who is the instructor teaching the course. 

ED542 Wildlife Conservation Society Project Timeline

March 6, 2023                        Site Visit, Survey and Client Review Scope Meeting
April 10,  2023                        Midpoint Design Review Presentation
May 15, 2023                          Final Concept Design Presentation

Constitution Day Postcard Competition
Students are asked to design the front and back of a postcard (3X5 or 4X6 inches) that illustrates their beliefs about any part of the United States Constitution. They can put anything they like on the front. The back must have two columns, like a typical postcard; the left column should include a paragraph or two explaining the visual statement on the front of the card, and the right column should leave room for an address and stamp.  In order to enter this competition, interested students must fill out the Spring 2023 Constitution Day Postcard Contest Student Consent Form and include their submission as an attachment at the bottom of the document. Submission deadline is March 31, 2023. For more information regarding the design of the postcard please contract Professor Daniel Levinson Wilk at [email protected].

Constitution Day Postcard Competition Timeline

February 1, 2023           Competition Start Date
March 31, 2023              Student Consent Forms and Submission Deadline
April 2023                        Judging Day
Late April 2023              Winners Announcement