Design With a Vintage Lens (DRA4389.01)

Charles Schoonmaker

This fashion history and design class is for students with a background and interest in theatrical design. We will examine and explore vintage garments from the instructor’s personal collection and the Bennington College costume collection. The class will explore the garments, looking at the materials and their construction, the designers who created them, and their historical context. We will be primarily focused upon fashions worn in the U.S. during the second half of the 20th century. Designers we will explore include Yves Saint Laurent, Moschino, Carolina Herrera, Prada, Gucci, Oscar de la Renta, Escada, Vicky Tiel, Ralph Lauren,Giorgio Armani, Balenciaga, and Donna Karan. The class will include design projects focused on vintage styles, as well as written research projects. It is expected that students will have prior experience in rendering design concepts

Note: This is not a construction class.


Learning Outcomes:
- Develop research skills
- Develop design skills
- Increased understanding of vintage styles and fashion design
- Firsthand familiarity with a variety of designers’ work
- Ability to visualize and utilize vintage clothing within a theatrical context


Delivery Method: Fully in-person
Prerequisites: Students are required to have prior experience in design classes and/or practical experience. Interested students should contact the faculty member (cschoonmaker@bennington.edu) for registration.
Course Level: 4000-level
Credits: 4
W 2:10PM - 5:50PM (Full-term)
Maximum Enrollment: 10
Course Frequency: One time only

Categories: 4000 , All courses , Drama , Four Credit , Fully In-Person , New Courses , Updates
Tags: