Taylor’s University continues to set the benchmark for excellence in fashion education through its Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) programme, offering students unparalleled international exposure in 2024.
Developing the next generation of fashion leaders
Taylor’s University continues to set the benchmark for excellence in fashion education through its Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) programme, offering students unparalleled international exposure in 2024.
A series of global showcases highlights the programme’s dedication to creativity, sustainability, and technological innovation, earning acclaim for its student’s distinctive work and reinforcing the university’s leadership in shaping the future of fashion.
Maria Sandra Wijaya, programme director of the Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) at Taylor’s University, remarked, “Our comprehensive programme combines theoretical knowledge and practical experience, blending creative design, technical skills, sustainability, industry practices, and innovation. This prepares students for the multifaceted demands of a successful fashion career, equipping them with the real-world expertise and experiences to lead the future of fashion technology.
Vietnam International Junior Fashion Week
The journey began with a showcase of 16 intricate children’s garments, challenging final-year students to design for younger clients. This experience enriched their skill set, complementing their knowledge of adult-sized techniques while emphasising versatility in addressing diverse body shapes and sizes across age groups.
Live Cool Live Green 2.0: Fashion Revolution Flashmob
In June, 27 students participated in the Live Cool Live Green 2.0 Fashion Revolution Flashmob at Fahrenheit 88, merging fashion with sustainability.
Through creative designs and public engagement, students displayed their passion for eco-friendly fashion practices, which inspired meaningful conversations about sustainable fashion choices.
THE SHOW Graduate Showcase and Fashion Graduate Italia
The highlight of the year featured 42 uniquely crafted garments by seven final-year students, showcased at two shows.
THE SHOW Graduate Showcase in The Starhill Gallery, with the theme “Ethereal,” captured the imagination of the audience with designs blending reality with fantasy through sustainability, technological innovation, and cultural expression.
Two students were honoured with “Most Promising Designer” awards, sponsored by Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW), earning them the opportunity to dress six front-row celebrities at KLFW 2025.
Andrew Tan, founder of Kuala Lumpur Fashion Week (KLFW), shared, “Partnering with Taylor’s University to present the ‘Most Promising Designer’ awards reflects our shared commitment to nurturing innovative and sustainable fashion talent. These awards not only honour the students’ creativity but also provide them with invaluable involvement in the local fashion scene through platforms like KLFW.”
The same collection was later presented at FGI24, where the students gained invaluable exposure to international fashion leaders and audiences. Known for its rigorous selection process and esteemed reputation, FGI24 allowed the students to connect with influential figures in the industry, further highlighting the craftsmanship fostered within the programme.
Bangkok Kids International Fashion Week 2024
In November, the programme’s reputation expanded as its students participated in Bangkok Kids International Fashion Week 2024 (BKIFW24). Their innovative designs and professionalism affirmed Taylor’s standing as a global hub for emerging talent poised to lead the fashion industry.
The consistent excellence of Taylor’s University students drew praise from industry leaders like Benjamin Toong, founder of renowned Runway Productions by Catwalk Guru, who expressed, “It has been rewarding to witness the students’ professionalism. Their ability to handle backstage challenges while delivering sophisticated designs reflects the quality of the programme and prepares them for success in the competitive fashion industry.”
By combining global exposure with a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, Taylor’s University remains committed to developing the next generation of fashion leaders.
Here’s a short interview with Joey Ho Chu Yie, Semester 4 Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) Programme Student Designer from Kuching, Sarawak.
ST: What has been the most rewarding part of your experience in the Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology programme, particularly through the Vietnam International Junior Fashion Week showcase? How did it feel to showcase your design(s) at a global event, and how did it contribute to your growth as a designer?
Joey: I would say the most rewarding part of my experience studying fashion design is getting to do what I love. It is rewarding to watch months upon months of work come into fruition, especially with the lecturers who are always there to give you guidance along the way.
The Bachelor of Fashion Design Technology (Honours) programme has also given me opportunities to showcase my work, namely through Vietnam International Junior Fashion Week. Prior to that, I only showcased my work at a few public-scale fashion shows. This programme allowed me to meet and work closely with industry partners.
Showcasing my design during Vietnam International Junior Fashion Week was surreal. From meeting the models for the first time, having our photo shoot in Perak, and then the show in Vietnam, it still feels unreal to me.
The lecturers at Taylor’s are always ready to help and guide you. I have seen firsthand how lecturers who have stayed way past their hours just to help my peers and me with our work. They somehow always spot the things you don’t or might have missed, and they’re always encouraging you to try different things. I always believe that they only want the best for you, and with their trust, guidance, and motivation, I am getting the confidence that I’ll achieve what I have come here for.
