The thesis explores fashion design education at three Czech universities – the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague (UMPRUM), Tomas Bata University in Zlín (UTB), and Jan Evangelista Purkyně University in Ústí nad Labem (UJEP). The main aim of the research was to document and analyze the experiences of current students and recent graduates, particularly in relation to their preparedness for professional practice and entrepreneurship within the field of fashion design.
The thesis is based on the premise that fashion design is a complex and interdisciplinary practice, requiring not only creative and technical skills, but also knowledge of economic, legal, and communication aspects. In a context where designers are often expected to operate independently as entrepreneurs, the question of business preparedness and the ability to navigate the professional landscape becomes crucial.
The qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews, with responses collected from students in both bachelor’s and master’s programs, as well as recent graduates of the universities mentioned above. The research focused on four main areas: reflections on business-oriented preparation at the schools, experiences with practice-based courses, the most commonly used informational and educational resources, and preferred methods of self-directed learning.
As the research revealed, printed publications are among the most preferred and trusted forms of educational materials. Books are perceived as the most reliable and lasting source of information, and participants are willing to invest in them if the content aligns with their current needs. The thesis therefore presents a proposed concept for a publication aimed at supporting fashion design students in their transition to professional practice.
The book titled Ready to Read: Between the Sewing Machine and the Invoice serves as a practical and accessible guide to the professional life of an emerging fashion designer. It combines theoretical insights with real-life experiences from industry experts, shared through informal interviews. The content is enriched with interactive elements and exercises – including worksheets and space for personal practice. The concept aims to summarize often overlooked topics such as pricing, marketing, copyright, and more, through a clear and visually engaging tool designed to help aspiring designers navigate the space between the creative and entrepreneurial aspects of their practice.
