Spring Break in France: Sustainable Fashion

Embark on a transformative educational journey centered around sustainability in the fashion industry, set amidst the vibrant backdrop of a fashion capital. This immersive experience goes beyond the surface, delving into various aspects of sustainable fashion, including emerging business models, innovative materials, technological advancements, and the influence of global trends and cultural perspectives. Our aim is to foster change agents who can shape a more sustainable future for the industry while providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of sustainability's significance.
At the heart of this journey is an exploration of the current fashion landscape, where we acknowledge the profound shifts occurring—decreased consumption, the rapid rise of e-commerce, and the impact of new European regulations. Through firsthand experiences and insightful discussions with industry experts, participants will gain valuable insights into the driving forces behind sustainability in fashion.
Participants will have the unique opportunity to witness sustainability initiatives in action, engaging with renowned designers, thought leaders, and innovators at the forefront of the industry. By immersing themselves in this global fashion capital, participants will gain firsthand exposure to the latest sustainable practices and witness the integration of sustainability into high-profile fashion events.
The primary objective of this experience is to equip individuals with the necessary tools to embed a culture of sustainability within their workplaces. Recognizing that sustainability is a fundamental prerequisite for revitalizing the textile, fashion, and clothing industries in future markets, our aim is to empower participants with the knowledge and skills required to navigate the intricate realm of sustainability. They will emerge from this journey capable of proposing viable solutions and initiating vital transformations in their professional spheres.
Join us as we combine the transformative power of education with the immersive allure of Paris. Engage with industry leaders, experience the forefront of sustainable fashion, and become a catalyst for change in the industry. Together, let's shape a more sustainable future for fashion, all while being inspired by the electric atmosphere of Paris, a global fashion capital.
Credit/Registration
Undergraduate tudents will be registered for DSMR T380: Sustainable Fashion in Paris for 3 credits as a part of their spring term course load. Students must leave space for these 3 credits in their credit load, or will otherwise be billed for exceeding the 20 credit term maximum.
Pre-requisite: None. Open to all majors, with priority given to FIM undergradutes, RMER graduates, and FASH undergraduates/graduates. This program is not open to Freshman.
Instructor
This program will be led by Chris Baeza (cdb93@drexel.edu), Fashion Industy & Merchadising, Associate Program Director
Pre-Travel: 4 in person classes. BBLearn readings and audio/visual materials, discussion board posts, and reflective writing assignment to prepare for experiential learning in Paris.
Winter Session dates and times - students need to block off Mondays 9am-11am
- Week 6: Lecture & Consutancy Project (TBD)
- Week 7: Lecture and discussion
- Week 8: Lecture & Consutancy Project
- Week 10: Pre-departure orientation
Paris: in country programming
Post Travel: Assignments due
Arrival Date: March 14 (students should depart March 13 to arrive on March 14)
Departure Date: March 21
*Students may extend their travel independently before or after program dates.
Tentative Itinerary Overview (subject to change)
| Day 1 |
- Welcome to Paris!
- Check-in to the hotel prior
- Orientation and Group Dinner
|
| Day 2 |
- Avenue des Champs-Elysees
- FLUFS
- Sustainable Fashion Tour with Anais Dautais
|
| Day 3 |
- Musee Yves Saint Laurent Paris
- Faxion / Damien Testu
|
| Day 4 |
- Larfeuille Paris
- Lunch in Marche des Enfants Rouges
- Wander Around Place des Vosges / Le Marais
- VEJA
- Loyal.e Paris
|
| Day 5 |
- Pierre Cardin
- Kate Lee
- Palais Galliera
|
| Day 6 |
- Koshka Paris
- Paris Jouvet – Le Musee du Parfum Opera – Fragonard Perfumeur
- Fashion Show at Galeries Lafayette
|
| Day 7 |
- Sustainable Fashion shops Guided Walking Tour
|
| Day 8 |
Travel home |
Due 11/16/2026 - $500
Due 1/15/2027 - $2750
*All payments are non-refundable unless declined admission or program cancels for unforeseen reasons.
Included in Program Fee:
- Accomodation in Paris
- Group dinner
- Breakfasts at hotel
- Entrance fees/tours
- Visits to key players in the fashion industry
- Local transit
- On Call Insurance
Not Included in Program Fee:
- Round trip airfare
- Airport transit
- Airport transfer
- Most meals
- Passport
ICA Financial Aid: Students may request an Adjusted Cost of Attendance by submitting the ICA program fee and estimated out of pocket expenses listed above to Drexel Central (via askdrexel). Doing so could make students’ eligible for additional financial aid. Students may also be eligible to apply for Drexel's
ICA Scholarships.
- Visa: US citizens do not need a visa to participate in this program, but students of other nationalities should confirm entry requirements.
- A recommended flight itinerary will be provided. Students are responsible for booking their own airfare.
Grading scale:
97-100 = A+ Superior – Rare grade given for work of highest achievement
94-96 = A
90-93 = A-
87-89 = B+ Above Average – Mastery of subject matter considerably above the acceptable standard
84-86 = B
80-83 = B-
77-79 = C+ Average – Standard performance of good college students
74-76 = C
70-73 = C-
67-69 = D+ Below Average - Passing, but inferior work
64-66 = D
Anything below a 64 will result in a failing grade.