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BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring
College
LCF
Start date
September 2020
Course length
3 years
UCAS code
W230
As the only course of its kind in Europe, BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring is uniquely placed to enable students to develop a high-calibre toolbox of skills in traditional and future bespoke tailoring techniques. Students will learn creative design development, academic thinking and the professional practice expertise required for a career on Savile Row, within a fashion brand or for working as an independent trader.
Why choose this course at London College of Fashion
- Facilities: learn how to tailor traditional fully-bespoke hand-crafted garments using industry-standard resources and expert technical assistance.
- Workshops: design development workshops will allow you to explore bespoke pattern drafting and tailoring techniques in using creative 2D and 3D applications and to build your knowledge of how to define and use a client to inform your work.
- Digital focus: enhance your technical understanding of future artisan processes and garment manufacture using digital pattern cutting, digital 3D programs and the Adobe suite.
- Industry links: engage with top-tier Industry partners on Savile Row and in the world of fashion by participating in live briefs and internship opportunities. Previous partners have included, H Huntsman & Son, Scabal and Hardy Aimes.
- Where graduates have gone on to work: graduates of this course have worked for tailors H Huntsman & Sons, Timothy Everest, John Pearse, Norton & Sons and Henry Poole & Co, with fashion companies Burberry and Aquascutum, and with film, television and theatrical costumiers.
Location
This course is based at Mare Street in Hackney. Find out about the local area, including London Fields, Bethnal Green and Hackney Central in our local area guides on the Student Life pages.
London College of Fashion is planning to move to a new single campus on the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in 2022. This is part of a new development for London prioritising culture, education and innovation, known as East Bank. Students studying this course will begin their studies at Mare Street and are likely to be transferred to LCF’s new site in East London, to complete their studies there, from September 2022. Please see ‘4Fashion: LCF’s move to the Olympic Park’ for more information about the College’s relocation.
Student and graduate work
Portfolio gallery
Weaving the Future: Tailors of tomorrow - Emily Latham
Weaving the Future: Tailors of tomorrow - James Eardley
Latest news from this course
Student Life: Budget tips on campus
Welcome to all our new students on campus! A lot of view will have just moved to London, and we know it’s an expensive city to live in as a student. So here are our tips in order to save while studying at LCF.
Bespoke Tailoring Alumna Sarah Hollebon to exhibit with mental health charity The Perspective Project
BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring alumna Sarah Hollebon is exhibiting at The Perspective Project in London on September 15th.
Backstage at the LCFBA19 Show
Backstage always remains as that mysterious space, where models, designers, stylists and hair and makeup artists rush around, preparing all the final details before taking on the catwalk...
Sarah Hollebon on Mental Health Bespoke Tailoring and Kingly Street
BA Bespoke Tailoring alumna Sarah Hollebon recently won a two years residency on Carnaby’s Kingly Street, London.
Creative spaces: the design studios where LCF students and alumni find their inspiration
LCF students and alumni open the door to their design studios and tell us what sparks their creativity.
Facilities
LCF library and archives
Take a tour of LCF's world renowned fashion library, ideal for research and study.
Design and pattern cutting facilities
Take a tour of Curtain Road's design, sewing and pattern-cutting facilities along with facilities at JPS and Lime Grove.
LCF's social spaces
Explore our social spaces, for collaborative study and breaks, across our six sites in London.
Course overview
Introduction
BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring focuses on equipping you with the technical craft knowledge, processes and skills to tailor bespoke garments. In addition to being the only undergraduate course in Europe where you are taught traditional full-bespoke hand craft tailoring and pattern-drafting skills, you will also explore bespoke techniques through creative applications and professional client briefs. Students will be prepared to use digital technologies to define future artisanal practices in Bespoke Tailoring for the 21st century.
What to expect
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Access to modern, industry-standard work rooms and technical resources.
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Trouser and jacket step by step bespoke workshops taught by industry experts using traditional hand techniques and processes.
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Workshops on how to understand and define clients.
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Introduction and development of digital pattern cutting and 3D rendering processes along with production tailoring techniques and Adobe creative suite programs Illustrator, Indesign and Photoshop.
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Application of tailoring techniques in creative 2D and 3D ways in design development workshops to define your understanding of bespoke tailoring.
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Develop a bespoke collection in Year 3 based on a client and theme of your choosing.
Work experience and opportunities
Students are given great exposure to industry, including masterclasses from tailors and industry practitioners. The opportunity to undertake an optional industry placement year between the second and final year of the course enhances the employability of students by offering valuable experience and contacts within the industry as well as earning an additional Diploma in Professional Studies qualification. Previous placements have included H Huntsman & Sons in both Savile Row and New York, Burberry, Alexander McQueen, Reiss, Thom Sweeny, Henry Pool, Norton & Sons, E Tautz, and Holly Robbins Bespoke. The course has strong links with Savile Row, which students will be able to access through live briefs with different tailoring houses.
Mode of study
BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring runs for 90 weeks in full time mode. It is divided into 3 stages over 3 academic years. Each stage lasts 30 weeks.
Course units
In Stage 1 you are required to complete 120 credits at level 4 in order to progress to Stage 2.
- Introduction to Bespoke Tailoring (20 credits)
- Tailoring Techniques (20 credits)
- Research, Design and Tailoring (20 credits)
- Fashion Cultures and Histories(20 credits)
- Cutting and Fitting (20 credits)
- Better Lives (20 credits)
In Stage 2 you are required to complete 120 credits of which a minimum of 100 must be at level 5.
- Cultural and Historical Studies Option (20 credits)
- Future Artisans (40 credits)
- Industry Project (40 credits)
- Industry Experience (20 credits)
In Stage 3 you are required to complete 120 credits at level 6.
- Concept Development (40 credits)
- Contextualising Your Practice (20 credits)
- Major Project Realisation (60 credits)
A 20-credit unit is approximately equivalent to 200 hours of learning time, which includes a mixture of taught time, independent study and assessment.
All students are entitled to a tutorial package that consists of:
- one induction tutorial (group or one to one);
- one tutorial per term for the duration for their course of study at LCF;
- group tutorials as required;
- an appropriate level of confidentiality.
Learning and teaching methods
The following teaching and learning methods are employed to support the integrated aims of the course outcomes:
- Academic skills, design thinking for textiles and other workshops
- Brainstorming sessions
- Briefings, tutorials and feedback
- Collaborative group project work
- Lectures and seminars
- Library and workshop inductions
- Museum, gallery and other visits
- Online learning
- Presentations
- Research methods
- Studio teaching
Assessment methods
The following assessment methods are employed to support the integrated aims of the course outcomes:
- Blogs
- Essays, reports and dissertation
- Final show examination
- Mid-year reviews
- Peer assessment
- Portfolio of work
- Presentation
- Student self-evaluation
- Tutorials
Staff
Tom Crisp is the Course Leader for Bespoke Tailoring. After Graduating from Ravensbourne with a 1stClass Honours degree and winning Graduate Menswear Designer of the Year at Graduate Fashion week, Tom progressed on to the MA Menswear Course at the Royal College of Art. While there, he won competitions with Umbro, IFF and the London 2012 Olympic Games to design the bespoke medal ceremony outfits and is to date the only menswear-focused recipient on the full BFC MA Scholarship award. After graduating from the RCA, Tom presented collections at London Collection; Mens while working on a freelance project for Givenchy. Tom moved on to work in menswear design roles for Allsaints and Viktor & Rolf as well as a menswear editor role while being a visiting lecturer at LCF. Tom comes to LCF from Norwich University of the Arts where he spent three years as a lecturer on BA (Hons) Fashion. Tom finds developments in the emerging fashion technology ecosystem exciting and has a particular interest in 3D structural shapes and Japanese handcraft techniques.
Daniel Poulson is a design tutor and teaches the 2D design on this course.He is a talented womenswear designer and tailor. Having trained at Kingston University, Daniel went on to design for the Max Mara Group before launching his own collection, 'Daniel Blake', which he presented over ten seasons at London Fashion Week. Renowned for his impeccable cutting in luxurious fabrication, Daniel's innovative British made tailoring is uniquely crafted to flatter the body. Daniel presents bi-annual collections in London and Paris which are 'Made to Order'. In addition to private views Daniel continues to consult for a number of international fashion businesses, advising on branding and product direction.
Magdalena Handwerker is the sample room tutor and teaches bespoke tailoring on this course. She graduated from London College of Fashion with a diploma in Pattern Technology and degree in BA (Hons) Bespoke Tailoring. She has worked in the bespoke tailoring industry as a pattern cutter for several years, and she has worked with individual clients while creating bespoke garments to their individual specification. She is a determined craft practitioner who believes that in the age of the impersonal approach to the customer and clothing production, it is extremely important to have the ability to create a high quality garment made with passion, care and impeccable attention to detail of a craftsman along with contemporary and creative thinking.
How to apply
Opportunities for all
We are committed to making university education an achievable option for a wider range of people and to supporting all of our students in achieving their potential both during and after their courses.
We welcome applications from people with disabilities. If you have a disability (e.g. mobility difficulties, sensory impairments, medical or mental health conditions or Asperger’s syndrome) we strongly encourage you to contact us on disability@arts.ac.uk or +44 (0)20 7514 6156 so that we can plan the right support for you. All enquiries are treated confidentially. To find out more, visit our Disability & Dyslexia webpages.
Entry requirements
The standard minimum entry requirements for this course are:
One or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications.
- Two A Level Passes at Grade C or above (preferred subjects include English, Maths, Art, Design, Textiles and Science);
- Pass at Foundation Diploma in Art and Design;
- Merit, Pass, Pass at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects Art & Design);
- Pass at UAL Extended Diploma Access Diploma;
- 64 tariff points from the Access to HE Diploma;
- 64 new UCAS tariff points (equivalent to 160 old UCAS tariff points) from a combination of the above qualifications or an equivalent full Level 3 qualification;
- or equivalent EU or non-EU qualifications such as International Baccalaureate Diploma;
- and three GCSE passes at grade A*-C or grade 9-4.
Entry to this course will also be determined by assessment of your portfolio.
APEL (Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning)
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence. This might, for example, be demonstrated by:
- Related academic or work experience
- The quality of the personal statement
- A strong academic or other professional reference
- OR a combination of these factors
Each application will be considered on its own merit but we cannot guarantee an offer in each case.
English Language Requirements
IELTS level 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking. Please check our main English Language Requirements .
Selection criteria
The course team seeks to recruit students who can demonstrate:
- Evidence of creative, cultural and tailoring interests
- A potential to achieve a high standard of technical/fine tailoring
- An ability to think three-dimensionally
- An enquiring and analytical approach
- An ability to communicate visually, verbally and through the written word
- The ability to work independently and as a member of a team
Making your application
This section includes all the information you need on how to apply and how your application is considered, and what happens next.
You should apply though UCAS – Universities and Colleges Admissions Service – and you will need the following information:
University code: U65
UCAS Code: W230
London College of Fashion does not accept applications for deferred entry. You should therefore apply in the year you wish to study.
Entry to Year 2 or Year 3
If you have successfully completed 120 credits (year 1) or 240 credits (years 1 and 2) in the equivalent units/modules on a degree course at another institution and wish to continue your studies at London College of Fashion, you can apply to transfer to year 2 or year 3 respectively. The Admissions Tutor will consider applicants for entry to year 2 and 3 on a case by case basis, subject to places being available on the course. You must apply through UCAS and indicate POE 2 for entry to year 2 or POE 3 for entry to year 3 on your application. Click here for important information about our UAL External Student Transfer Policy.
Application deadline
We recommend you apply by 15th January for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.
What happens next
All application forms, personal statements and references are read and considered by the course team against the selection criteria listed in the Entry requirements and Selection Criteria sections.
If you have achieved or expect to achieve the standard entry requirements we will invite you to submit a mini portfolio which should include a number of images of your work. For this course your portfolio should show evidence of: drawing/presentation skills; contemporary fashion/cultural awareness; a level of research, exploration and experimentation; fabric and material selection/knowledge; construction/technical competence; an enquiring approach/problem solving; and visual communication skills. The mini portfolio is assessed by Academic Reviewers who will select applicants to attend an interview. Please note that not all applicants are invited to attend interview.
Rich Mix Interview week
If you are selected for interview, these will take place at the Rich Mix Arts venue in Shoreditch from February 17th to 22nd 2020. Please see here for a map of the location; nearest stations are Liverpool Street (Central, Circle, Metropolitan, Hammersmith and City and TFL Rail), Shoreditch High Street (Overground) and Bethnal Green (Central). Local buses also serve the venue – please see the Richmix website for further details.
Should you be unable to attend your interview, you must notify us as soon as you can. We cannot guarantee that we will be able to reschedule so you should make every effort to attend the scheduled interview.
How we notify you of the outcome of your application
If you applied through UCAS the result of your application will be communicated to you via UCAS through UCAS Track. You will only receive further communication directly from the College if your application has been successful. This will be in the form of a full offer pack including details of accommodation, fees, and other important information.
This section includes all the information you need on how to apply and how your application is considered, and what happens next.
How we assess your application
Your application form is reviewed when you apply to the University. If you have achieved or expect to achieve the standard entry requirements you will be invited to submit a portfolio of no more than 45 images. Your portfolio is assessed by our academic team who will select applicants to attend an interview. Please note that not all applicants are invited to attend interview. When you have attended your interview we will advise you of your outcome.
There are three ways international students can apply to an undergraduate course at London College of Fashion:
- UCAS online application system
- Through one of our official representatives in your country
- A direct application
If you choose to apply though UCAS – Universities and Colleges Admissions Service – you will need the following information:
University code: U65
UCAS Code: W230
You can only apply to the same course once per year whether you are applying via UCAS, UAL Representative or using the UAL online application system. Any duplicate application will be withdrawn.
For further advice on how to apply please visit the UAL International Application page.
London College of Fashion does not accept applications for deferred entry. You should therefore apply in the year you wish to study.
Entry to Year 2 or Year 3
If you have successfully completed 120 credits (year 1) or 240 credits (years 1 and 2) in the equivalent units/modules on a degree course at another institution and wish to continue your studies at London College of Fashion, you can apply to transfer to year 2 or year 3 respectively. The Admissions Tutor will consider applicants for entry to year 2 and 3 on a case by case basis, subject to places being available on the course. You must apply through UCAS and indicate POE 2 for entry to year 2 or POE 3 for entry to year 3 on your application. Click here for important information about our UAL External Student Transfer Policy.
Application deadline
We recommend you apply by 15th January for equal consideration. However this course will consider applications after that date, subject to places being available.
What happens next
Immigration History Check
Whether you are applying online via UCAS or through a UAL representative or direct application you will need to complete an Immigration History Check to identify whether you are eligible to study at UAL. Do be aware, if you do not complete the Immigration History Check we will not be able to proceed with your application.
Initial application check
All application forms, personal statements and references are read and considered by the course team against the selection criteria listed in the Entry requirements and Selection Criteria sections.
Depending on the quality of your application, you may be asked to submit a number of images of your work. For this course your portfolio should show evidence of: drawing/presentation skills; contemporary fashion/cultural awareness; a level of research, exploration and experimentation; fabric and material selection/knowledge; construction/technical competence; an enquiring approach/problem solving; and visual communication skills.
If the academic team wish to consider your application further, you will be invited to attend an interview either in person or via telephone where an international academic will look at your portfolio and ask questions to establish your suitability for the course. Applicants will be expected to demonstrate the following at interview: creative, cultural and tailoring interests; the potential to achieve a high standard of technical/fine tailoring; the ability to work independently and as a member of a team; an enquiring and analytical approach; and an ability to communicate visually, verbally and through the written word.
If you are successful at the interview stage you will be offered a place. Applicants are not guaranteed to be asked to upload work, nor are they guaranteed an interview.
Please note that if you are unable to attend, the College may not be able to re-schedule.
How we notify you of the outcome of your application
If you applied through UCAS the result of your application will be communicated to you via UCAS through UCAS Track. If you have applied directly or through an agent, we will notify you through the UAL portal. You will only receive further communication directly from the College if your application has been successful. This will be in the form of a full offer pack including details of accommodation, fees, and other important information.
After you apply
After you’ve submitted your application, you’ll receive a confirmation email providing you with your login details for the UAL Portal. We’ll use this Portal to contact you to request any additional information, including inviting you to upload documents or book an interview, so please check it regularly.
Once we’ve reviewed and assessed your application, we’ll contact you via UCAS Track or the UAL Portal to let you know whether your application has been successful.
Potential changes to course structure
Please note: the information outlined is an indicative structure of the course. Whilst we will aim to deliver the course as described on this page, there may be situations where it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, for example because of regulatory requirements or operational efficiencies, before or after enrolment. If this occurs, we will communicate all major changes to all applicants and students who have either applied or enrolled on the course. Please note that due to staff research agreements or availability, not all of the optional modules listed may be available every year. In addition, the provision of course options which depend upon the availability of specialist teaching, or on a placement at another institution, cannot be guaranteed. Please check this element of the course with the course team before making a decision to apply.
Webpage updates
We will update this webpage from time to time with new information as it becomes available. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please use the register your interest form above.
Fees & Funding
Home / EU fee
£9,250
This applies for the 2020/21 academic year.
Tuition fees for undergraduate degree courses have been set at £9,250 per year for full-time study, subject to changes in the law. Tuition fees may increase in future years for new and continuing students, in line with an inflationary amount determined by government. Please visit our Undergraduate tuition fees page for more information.
International fee
£22,920
This applies for the 2020/21 academic year.
Additional costs
In addition to tuition fees you are very likely to incur additional costs such as travel expenses and the cost of materials. Please read the information on our additional costs page.
Charges may be made for special clothing or equipment which students may need in order to participate in certain activities which form part of the course but which they retain. However, where such clothing or equipment is necessary for the student’s health or safety a charge may only be made for clothing and equipment which the student retains if the student also has the option of borrowing the clothing or equipment free of charge.
Accommodation
Find out about the accommodation options available and how much they will cost.
Scholarships and awards
There are a number of scholarships and awards available to students on this course. Use our search tool to find out more information.
Careers and alumni
All of our undergraduate courses offer career development, so that you become a creative thinker, making effective contributions to your relevant sector of the fashion industry.
LCF offers students the opportunity to develop Personal and Professional Development (PPD) skills while studying through:
- An on-course work experience or placement year. Please note, this is not available on every course; please see the Course Details section for information about work placement opportunities.
- Access to to speaker programmes and events featuring alumni and industry.
- Access to careers activities, such as CV clinics and one-to-one advice sessions.
- Access to a graduate careers service
- Access to a live jobsboard for all years.
- Advice on setting up your own brand or company.
Graduates who wish to continue their education at postgraduate level can progress to suitable courses within the College, the University or elsewhere.
Career paths
Many graduates prefer to seek employment as soon as they have completed their undergraduate studies. Recent graduates from this course have successfully gained employment with a number of bespoke tailors, including H Huntsman & Sons, Timothy Everest, John Pearse, Norton & Sons and Henry Poole & Co, with fashion companies Burberry and Aquascutum, and with the film, television and theatrical costumier, Angels.
Alumni
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