What will I learn on this module?
In this module you will receive an introduction to the world of Fashion Communication, exploring the wide scope of the sector, its importance to the industry and elements of its history which have subsequently shaped contemporary fashion and design. Content will be delivered which will consider significant shifts in fashion, focusing on aspects of production, promotion and consumption with reference to movements, styles, and influences which have formed the basis of innovation in fashion communication and styling.
The cultural, societal and political influences impacting the discipline will form a significant aspect of the module content and subsequent discussion, reflecting the changing shape of fashion across time and focusing on contemporary considerations. This will align to current debate questioning the role of fashion within society and the potential of the industry to have a positive (or potentially negative) impact on the World at large.
You will select a topic related to the module themes to explore within your essay, making connections to factors which have shaped the sector. This will also map to your own drive and desire to gain insight into aspects of the fashion industry and its history which may shape your future studies and beyond.
How will I learn on this module?
You will attend weekly sessions, including a number of lectures outlining key considerations linked to the history of fashion and its contemporary setting. Seminars will focus on the discussion of key concepts, where workshops will aim to add creative practice to the process of understanding the foundations of the discipline. Where possible, elements of the process will be supported through peer group discussion, to help you gain further knowledge of the wider fashion sector.
You will also receive support in relevant primary and secondary research, and academic writing techniques to fully underpin your ability to meet assessment goals. This will be in conjunction with ongoing formative assessment through draft development, which will support you in learning the skills associated with presentation of your work. Further support will be available through the library, where the nuances of academic writing can be explored.
How will I be supported academically on this module?
An initial lectures/briefing will outline the goals of the module, alongside the structure of the sessions to follow. Beyond this, taught sessions will be delivered by knowledgeable staff, often reflecting their own research interests linked to the Fashion Communication sector. Methods for research, planning and writing will be discussed within lectures and seminars/workshops/tutorials to assist you reach the summative outcomes of the module. Further group work in the form of practice and discussion will assist your development in terms of knowledge, understanding and communication skills.
Further support regarding academic writing will be provided via the University Library.
What will I be expected to read on this module?
All modules at Northumbria include a range of reading materials that students are expected to engage with. The reading list for this module can be found at: http://readinglists.northumbria.ac.uk
(Reading List service online guide for academic staff this containing contact details for the Reading List team – http://library.northumbria.ac.uk/readinglists)
What will I be expected to achieve?
Knowledge & Understanding:
Explain contextual issues, historical movements and the principles of fashion communication that shape practice.
Apply critical thinking to debate issues.
Demonstrate the ability to conduct research through a variety of methods; analyse the information or experience; and begin to formulate independent judgements.
Intellectual / Professional skills & abilities:
Record and annotate research and development through the use of prescribed formats.
Personal Values Attributes (Global / Cultural awareness, Ethics, Curiosity) (PVA):
Identify areas for personal Interest and professional growth within the wider Fashion Communication field.
How will I be assessed?
FORMATIVE: Formative feedback will be delivered across the module. This can be verbal and/or textual and will be aligned to workshop activities.
SUMMATIVE
Visual Essay 100%
A sustained piece of academic writing culminating in a 1,500 word essay, including relevant imagery (original and sourced). Plus research and development file including planning, drafts and in-class tasks. (LO1,2,3,4,5)
Pre-requisite(s)
N/A
Co-requisite(s)
N/A
Module abstract
This module introduces a number of key concepts, ideas and issues presented across the fashion communication sector. Elements of fashion’s history will be considered, bringing into focus its present position within the world in which it is situated. Changes and influences which have impacted form and style will be explored, while wider reaching movements and cultural shifts which have had an impact on society as a result will be reflected in content and your own exploration of the subject matter. . The role of fashion has changed significantly, yet it remains a powerful tool in modern society. Often it has the potential to be a force for good, and sometimes it is utilised in more scrupulous endeavours, all of which will be considered across the module as fashion parallels societal, political and environmental concerns. This is the first step in considering the industry you may find yourself in, where it has been, where it is now and what role you might play in shaping its future.
Course info
UCAS Code WP30
Credits 20
Level of Study Undergraduate
Mode of Study 3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad
Department Northumbria School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries, Northumbria School of Design
Location City Campus, Northumbria University
City Newcastle
Start September 2025
All information is accurate at the time of sharing.
Full time Courses are primarily delivered via on-campus face to face learning but could include elements of online learning. Most courses run as planned and as promoted on our website and via our marketing materials, but if there are any substantial changes (as determined by the Competition and Markets Authority) to a course or there is the potential that course may be withdrawn, we will notify all affected applicants as soon as possible with advice and guidance regarding their options. It is also important to be aware that optional modules listed on course pages may be subject to change depending on uptake numbers each year.
Contact time is subject to increase or decrease in line with possible restrictions imposed by the government or the University in the interest of maintaining the health and safety and wellbeing of students, staff, and visitors if this is deemed necessary in future.
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