History and Documentation of Fashion

History and Documentation of Fashion (60 hours, 9 cfu)

Module A: 10 hours, 1.5 cfu
Conoscere il tessuto per capire e raccontare la moda (Getting to know fabrics for a better understanding and storytelling of fashion)

The module covers the different types of fabric and the relevant terminology: students will become familiar with the differences between various textile decoration techniques, as well as the main decorative patterns that characterise the "style" of contemporary fabrics, with an overview of current and returning trends. Samples will also be used to examine these types of fabric.
Prof. Francina Chiara

Module B: 20 hours, 3 cfu
Dalla supremazia francese al successo del Made in Italy (From the French dominance of fashion to the success of the "Made in Italy")

Through the study of sources of different nature (paintings, literary texts, journals, documents connected to the production process, films, etc.), the module covers the evolution of clothing - with a focus on fabrics - from the 18th century to present times. Some major turning points in the history of European fashion will be analysed in depth: from the dominance and excellence of French fabrics in the 18th century to the rise of Italian fashion in the 20th century, with an excursus on the changes in production models, products and manufacturing geographies in the 19th century; from craftsmanship to the acceleration of technological innovation and its impact on products; from artisans to industrial designers and the role of art and artists in shaping the evolution of the textile industry.
Prof. Francina Chiara

Module C: 10 hours, 1.5 cfu
La nascita contemporanea dei brand e le strategie di comunicazione (The simultaneous rise of brands and communication strategies)

The growing popularity of fashion apparel and the birth of brands in the 20th century have reshaped the idea of fashion. The module focuses on the corporate and financial developments of large fashion groups, and the strengthening and communication of brand identity in present times. Communication, advertising and runway shows have become part of the spectacularisation process, bringing about a new interpretation of fashion. Meetings with experts in the field will offer students a novel peek into this industry.
Prof. Mattia Alberto Bertocco

Module D: 20 hours, 3 cfu
Le origini del sistema moda e la sua contemporaneità (The origins of the fashion system and its contemporaneity)

The evolution of fashion in the last centuries allows to keep track of the social and cultural changes in our societies. The module analyses the meaning of clothing by unveiling the underlying mechanisms of artisan and industrial manufacturing on one hand, and symbolic and cultural production on the other.
Prof. Mattia Alberto Bertocco