Maggie Doyle

From British tweed to silk from Lyon, fabrics are undoubtedly the most important material that all designers use. Mixing weaves and yarns produce a multitude of different effects both on the surface and to the feel. The British are famed for their woolens. Italians and the French produce the finest silk brocades and damask. During this course you will learn about the history of these fabrics and their importance today in the world of fashion for both Ready-to-Wear and Haute Couture. You will study the fabrics that designers use today in their collections. You will also be taught the basics of the weaves and yarns learning their names in order to identify them in professional salons and trade fairs. You will produce a fabric sample book as evidence of your study that you can build upon as your career advances. This will provide an invaluable tool when starting a collection.
The course aims to teach students of all abilities and levels of experience. It is designed to be of interest to all students wishing to work within a creative industry that uses fabric. Fashion, textiles, costume and interior designers would all benefit from this course.

Maggie Doyle has designed for many years in Paris both in ready-to-wear and haute couture. She is currently teaching at Croydon College and works as a freelance designer.