When I was approached in 2002 to teach the Couture Graduate class at Drexel University, I had no idea accepting the request would launch a passionate journey in teaching. That first class proved there are still students dreaming of working at the couture level and capable of doing the work.
Focusing on eveningwear with visible corsetry, hidden foundation layers and corselettes (some call them French linings), students sketch a collection of garments & create one ensemble in 10 weeks using only couture techniques. I’m delighted when students tax my brain to invent solutions to outrageous problems. In a single semester I must know every answer for more than a dozen ensembles. Students in other classes seek my guidance. Most weeks, this means many extra hours on campus. They trust me because I’m tough & honest and because I continue to work on NY fashion week & the Paris Haute Couture collections. And they know I’ll never hold back on knowledge. I give them everything I have and I dig for more…including doing research and study in private fashion collections the world over to gain added bits to share with them.
Students become intensely involved with draping, patternmaking & couture hand finishing work. I give draping demos of rare techniques & require them to do complicated sewing samples for couture sample books they’ll show to employers. And their employers are very particular. Recent students have gotten work with Oscar de la Renta, Donna Karan, Vera Wang and the late Alexander McQueen.
When students ask how they can repay my efforts, I ask them to pass it on. I want my legacy to be hundreds of empowered, enthusiastic fashion professionals who each give to the NEXT generation the same generous gifts I gave to them.
Pamela Ptak is an independent fashion designer, a professor at Drexel University & the Baum School of Art & creator/owner of Camp Couture TM.
March 25, 2005 - Reprinted from newsletter of Philadelphia Pro. Assoc. Custom Clothiers
