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My little Black Dress.

My little Black Dress

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All programs

The little black dress is iconic, representing a fashion staple reinterpreted by every fashion brand across the ages. This program allows you to use this emblematic garment as a starting point to learn the basics of design and sewing.

Audience

Open to all above 16 years old. No prerequisites. The small number of trainees enables the instructor to adapt to the level and objectives of each participant. The tutor is bilingual in English and French. Basic English required.

Practical information

Type:
Summer School program
Format:
Short format
Duration:
4 days (30 hours)
Next session:
13-17 July, 2026

Classes will take place from Monday to Friday from 9 am to 5:30 pm. There will be no classes on Tuesday, July 14th, due to the national holiday.

Fees:
€990 incl. VAT

Summer School programs may be combined with each other to form longer courses (-10% discount on the second cheapest program).

Group size:
limited to 15 people
Material:
All materials will be provided by Institut Français de la Mode
Language:
English
Location:
Austerlitz Campus

34 quai d'Austerlitz, 75013

Audience

Open to all above 16 years old. No prerequisites. The small number of trainees enables the instructor to adapt to the level and objectives of each participant. The tutor is bilingual in English and French. Basic English required.

© Sacha Heron

Program

Starting with a basic pattern you will create your own design and discover why the little black dress has been a source of inspiration for all fashion designers.

Objectives

  • Acquire a fashion culture
  • Learn to read a basic pattern and make simple adjustments
  • Understand how to choose a fabric that suits the selected design
  • Understand the logic of gradations
  • Excecute an assembly range
  • Master the sewing machine on simple seams

Program

  • Fashion history of the little black dress
  • Vocabulary and application of the different finishing techniques : open seam, French seam, bias
  • Tests of compatibility between the base fabrics and the chosen shapes
  • Reading the basic pattern and working on the size
  • Cutting and assembly of the chosen model on an industrial sewing machine

Tutor

Lucie Schmitt, founder of L.O.S Couture, is a passionate designer who combines sustainability, innovation, and elegance. Trained at L'École de la Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture Parisienne, with experience at Louis Vuitton and Iris van Herpen, she creates unique pieces blending structure and fluidity. Specializing in bespoke designs, she crafts wedding dresses, groom suits, and personalized garments that reflect her clients' values and personalities.

Lucie also shares her expertise in pattern making, draping, and sewing techniques by teaching and consulting occasionally, notably at IFM. Committed to responsible fashion, she offers elegant and timeless creations rooted in precise and exceptional craftsmanship.

Certificate

At the end of the program, a certificate of participation in the Summer School is issued to participants who have attended all courses.

How to apply

Simply fill in the online form and pay the required deposit. Upon receipt of the online form, the application is studied by the Summer School team. Once the application has been accepted, an email is sent specifying the payment schedule for the registration fee balance. If the application is not accepted, the deposit will be refunded.


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What they have to say

IFM Summer School

Institut Français de la Mode offers one- to two-week programs in Design, Management, and Craftsmanship, providing an immersive introduction to key areas of the fashion and creative industries.

Programs include:

  • Courses taught by IFM faculty
  • Creative and collaborative workshops
  • Guided visits to emblematic cultural and industry sites
  • Meetings with designers and professionals

Frequently asked questions

Application process

How can I apply?

On reception of the application form, the application is reviewed by the Summer School team. Once the application is accepted, the participant will receive a confirmation email with the instructions for payment (deposit and balance of the registration fee).

Please note that registration is confirmed only after payment of the deposit.

Fees & Scholarship

Can I apply for a scholarship?

IFM scholarships are available thanks to the generous sponsorship of the IFM Foundation. They are reserved for High-School Summer programs only.

Scholarships are available in a limited number and are need-based. They may cover up to 75% of tuition fees and are restricted to one demand per year and per participant. In case of registration to several programs, one grant only can be given.

Campus

Are travel and accommodation costs included?

Travel and accommodation costs in Paris are the responsibility of each participant. IFM can recommend, upon request, different options for accommodation and help foreign students in organizing their stay.

Practical information

What are the registration procedures for foreign students?

Participants from outside the European Union must ensure, if necessary, that they have a valid visa for France. Upon request and after full payment of the course, IFM will send the participant a letter confirming registration in order to support the visa application. IFM will also send you a visa guide upon request.

Important: 15 calendar days are necessary for consular authorities to treat visa request, sometimes longer in the high season.

If you are non-French you must ensure you are covered by your health insurance during your stay.