Short Course IFA Paris × Polimoda

The Learning Journey

Week 1 & 2 — Learn to Observe

Florence • Understanding Fashion Through Craftsmanship

Students begin their journey in Florence, where they learn to observe before they create. Surrounded by centuries of artistic excellence and artisanal expertise, they explore how fashion emerges from research, culture and craftsmanship.

Working alongside Polimoda's faculty, participants develop their creative methodology through fashion design, trend forecasting, fashion illustration and technical drawing while discovering the importance of materiality, manufacturing excellence and sustainable craftsmanship.

Learning extends beyond the classroom through visits to the Salvatore Ferragamo Museum, artisan workshops, the renowned textile district of Prato, and iconic cultural landmarks that illustrate how heritage continues to inspire contemporary luxury.

By the end of this first stage, students have developed a richer creative vocabulary, strengthened their design methodology and acquired a deeper understanding of the creative foundations of fashion.

Week 3 & 4 — Learn to Create

Paris • Bringing Ideas to Life

The second half of the program takes participants to IFA Paris, where concepts become garments.

Through intensive studio practice, students master the fundamentals of haute couture, including pattern making, draping, garment construction and advanced sewing techniques. Specialized workshops in leather craftsmanship and plumasserie introduce exceptional artisanal techniques that continue to define French luxury fashion.

Visits to Marché Saint-Pierre, CHANEL's 19M Métiers d'Art, and other carefully selected industry locations provide direct exposure to one of the world's most influential creative ecosystems.

By combining experimentation with technical precision, students learn how to transform creative ideas into beautifully crafted fashion pieces.

Study in Europe's Two Fashion Capitals

Experience fashion where it was born. Spend four immersive weeks between Florence and Paris, two cities whose creative heritage continues to shape the global fashion industry. Discover how Italian craftsmanship and French haute couture complement one another while developing your own creative identity.

Learn from Two Leading Fashion Institutions

Benefit from the combined expertise of Polimoda and IFA Paris, two internationally recognized schools renowned for their industry-focused approach to fashion education. Learn from experienced faculty, designers and artisans who bring real-world knowledge directly into the classroom.

Master Traditional Craftsmanship and Contemporary Design

Develop practical skills through studio projects, workshops and ateliers covering fashion design, illustration, pattern making, draping, garment construction, leather craftsmanship and plumasserie. The curriculum balances creative exploration with technical excellence to prepare students for today's fashion industry.

Connect with the European Fashion Industry

Go beyond the classroom through visits to museums, textile districts, luxury fashion houses and exceptional Métiers d'Art workshops. These experiences provide valuable insight into the creative processes, craftsmanship and innovation that define European luxury.

Build an International Creative Network

Join an international cohort of aspiring designers from around the world. Collaborate across cultures, exchange ideas and develop lasting professional relationships within an inspiring international learning environment.

Create Portfolio-Worthy Projects

Throughout the program, participants produce original work reflecting both their technical progression and creative vision. By the end of the Summer Program, they leave with projects that strengthen their portfolio and demonstrate their ability to combine research, craftsmanship and innovation.

Graduate with a New Creative Perspective

By bringing together the complementary philosophies of Florence and Paris, the Summer Program offers much more than technical training.

Participants develop the ability to research, observe, experiment and create within an international environment while gaining a deeper understanding of European craftsmanship, luxury culture and contemporary fashion practice.

Whether pursuing further academic studies or preparing for a professional career, graduates leave the program with stronger creative confidence, an enriched portfolio and a broader vision of fashion as both a cultural expression and a global industry.

Upon completion of the program, participants will be able to:

• Develop original fashion concepts supported by research and creative experimentation.
• Apply essential techniques in pattern making, draping and garment construction.
• Understand the complementary approaches of Italian craftsmanship and French haute couture.
• Strengthen their skills in fashion illustration and technical drawing.
• Produce portfolio-quality projects demonstrating creativity and technical proficiency.
• Analyze contemporary fashion trends and integrate research into the design process.
• Appreciate the cultural, historical and economic significance of the European fashion industry.
• Collaborate effectively within an international and multicultural learning environment.

• Accommodation: students will be housed in twin rooms (double room with separate beds) for 30 nights / 31 days.
• Transportation:
  • Transfers between the train station/airport and accommodation in Florence and Paris on July 13.
  • Plane or train ticket between Florence and Paris.
• Group meals: 2 dinners and 1 packed lunch.
• Program welcome: orientation session covering health and safety guidelines, followed by a walking tour of the neighborhood.
• Cultural visits: including the Uffizi Gallery, the Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (Duomo), the Bateaux-Mouches and the Champs-Élysées.
• 24/7 assistance.
• Commitment to sustainability: carbon offsetting of participants' travel and a certificate awarded at the end of the program.
• Academic content: 80 hours of instruction and a certificate of completion.
• All taxes included.

• Recommended level of English is IELTS 5.5 (to fully understand and follow the course). The IELTS certificate is not required, but we just want to be certain that you will be able to comprehend the course.
• Minimum age: 16 years old.
• Interest in fashion design

Required Documents (in English)

• Fill in the online application form
• Resume.
• Copy of passport
• Passport photo