Fashion Trades
April 8, 2025 2025-10-09 9:22Fashion Trades
The fashion industry, one of today’s most complex and intriguing industries, offers endless opportunities for creative and innovative persons interested in fashion, design, production and sales. The BTVI Fashion Trades department helps students develop the concepts and skills needed to function effectively in this industry both at home in The Bahamas and abroad. From entry-level sewers and production assistants to designers and creative directors, our programmes prepare students to present well-designed, well executed work on national and international levels. We provide a sound foundation in pattern making, draping, sketching, garment construction, tailoring techniques, accessory design and production management. We also provide industry standard training and real-world experiences through internal and external internship opportunities.
Head of Department
Location: A Block, A1, New Providence Main Campus
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 1 (242) 502-6300 (Ext. 6347)
April Burrows
Certificates and Diploma Programmes
Fashion Design and Production Diploma
The Diploma in Fashion Design and Production provides students with in-depth training in apparel design and production. Students learn to develop patterns for ready to wear as well as custom design and acquire a sound foundation in draping, sketching, design and production.
Graduates gain hands-on experience in a professional setting, preparing them for careers in the fashion industry, including roles as fashion designers, production managers, and garment technologists. This programme includes opportunities for internships and portfolio development to showcase their skills.
Tailoring Certificate
The Certificate (Level II) in Tailoring teaches students to make tailored garments and prepares them for work in the garment industry. Students develop the skills and techniques needed to draft patterns and sew shirts and tailored pants for men and women.
Students complete hands-on projects to develop a working portfolio, gain experience with fashion tools and equipment, and receive introductory training in fashion illustration. This programme is ideal for individuals interested in pursuing a career in fashion or enhancing their personal skills.
Garment Production Certificate
The Certificate Level III in Garment Production is designed for persons who wish to work in the garment industry and who wish to acquire the knowledge, skills and techniques needed to make and alter garments. Students learn to draft patterns and to produce a variety of garments – skirts, blouses, pants, dresses. Students take an introduction to entrepreneurship course in which they examine strategies needed to develop and operate a successful business.
Also, students complete a 160-hour internship with a dressmaker, tailor or designer during which they gain practical, hands-on experience. Upon successful completion of this programme, students are able to work independently or in an established enterprise.
Eveningwear Design and Production Special Interest Certificate
The Special Interest Certificate (Level II) in Eveningwear Design and Production teaches students to design eveningwear for special occasions. Participants learn to source fabrics, apply draping techniques, create patterns, and construct and finish eveningwear.
This programme spans 144 hours over 12 weeks. Applicants must have completed the Special Interest Certificate Level I Tailor’s Assistant, Special Interest Level I Garment Production Assistant, or provide evidence of having worked as a seamstress or tailor for a minimum of two years.
Garment Production Assistant Special Interest Certificate
The Special Interest Certificate (Level I) Garment Production Assistant prepares students to work under the supervision of a seamstress or designer. Students acquire basic sewing skills and techniques, enabling them to complete simple tasks and activities with support and guidance.
This programme spans 120 hours over 10 weeks, providing a strong foundation for individuals interested in entering the field of garment production.
Tailor’s Assistant Special Interest Certificate
The Special Interest Certificate (Level I) Tailor’s Assistant prepares students to work under the supervision of a tailor. Students acquire basic tailoring skills and techniques, enabling them to complete simple tailoring tasks and activities with support and guidance.
This programme spans 120 hours over 10 weeks, offering a strong introduction to tailoring for individuals looking to develop foundational skills in this craft.
Accessory Design Special Interest Certificate
The Special Interest Certificate (Level I) in Accessory Design teaches students to design and make basic clutches, totes, fascinators, and hats. Students learn to make patterns, source and select appropriate fabrics and trims, and apply finishings.
This programme runs for 120 hours over 10 weeks and is ideal for individuals looking to explore their creativity or start a career in accessory design.
