Empowering Fashion Innovators in Prince George’s County
Join the next cohort of DESIGN PARK 3311 and embark on a transformative journey into the heart of the fashion industry. This dynamic fashion incubator is dedicated to nurturing talent, fostering creativity, and providing hands-on experience across all facets of fashion design and production.
DPARK 3311’s Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence Includes:
Comprehensive Curriculum
Get ready for a wide range of courses and workshops covering every facet of the fashion industry.
Career Advancement
Providing advanced training and career support resources to help individuals excel and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving industry.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with peers, mentors, and industry leaders.
Career Support
Gain access to resources for job placement, internships, and career counseling.
Join Us in Shaping the Future of Fashion
Become part of a pioneering initiative that aims to elevate the fashion landscape in Prince George’s County and beyond. Don’t miss your chance to take your fashion career to new heights. Apply today and step into a world of endless possibilities at DESIGN PARK 3311.
Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence
Program Overview
The Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence is a year long intensive program that immerses you in fashion and costume design, business skills, financial management, and industry trends. Throughout the program, participants will create three garments of their choice to showcase at our end-of-year fashion show. The program includes workshops, special guest sessions, and networking opportunities, offering a comprehensive learning experience.
Participants should expect to dedicate 3 to 6 hours per week to the program, honing their skills and building valuable connections in the fashion industry. By the end of the program, fellows will have enhanced their fashion and costume design abilities, developed a portfolio featuring three personally crafted garments, and gained valuable industry insights and connections to propel their careers forward.
Program Cost
Program costs are fully covered—all we ask for is a one-year commitment and your participation in our exciting end-of-year fashion show.
Application Process
We invite passionate individuals over 18 years old to apply for one of 4 to 5 coveted spots. To be considered, applicants should submit a comprehensive application including a statement of interest, portfolio showcasing their creative work, resume detailing their experience, and any additional materials that highlight their commitment to fashion innovation. We will invite a chosen few for interviews with the DPARK Team prior to finalizing our program cohort.
Key Dates
Application Period: June 26, 2024 – September 16, 2024
Interview with DPARK Team: TBA
Notification Date: TBA
Cohort Start Date: September 2024
Facilities
The program will take place at our Prince George’s Arts & Humanities fashion incubator co-space, Design Park 3311. Our co-working space features state-of-the-art amenities and technology for fashion design, film and audio production.
DPARK Faculty Mentors
Maggy Francois
Since 1996, Maggy Francois has been a formidable presence in creative fashion space & event production. In 2000, she launched her self-titled special event and creative production company. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion industry, event planning, public relations, and marketing, Maggy has curated productions for some of fashion's biggest names and led high-profile projects for Anthony Hamilton, Myles Frost, Sara Bareilles, Adam Lambert, and a Super Bowl commercial in 2024, among many others. As a creative director and costume designer, her work spans international campaigns, films, music videos, and collaborations with brands such as ROC Nation, Atlantic Records, Vayner Media, CW Television, PepsiCo, Budweiser, and more.
Additionally, Maggy is a professor at Bowie State University, a member of the Grammy Recording Academy and Forbes BLK, an executive board member of Fashion Group International's New York and DC chapters, and a driving force behind Design Park 3311 with the Prince George's Arts & Humanities Council. Maggy has been featured in the New York Times, Vogue, Black Enterprise, Marie Claire, Vanity Fair, and more.
Carolyn Wilbourn
Carolyn Wilbourn is a designer and entrepreneur, hailing originally from Jackson, Tennessee. Alongside her sister Janice Wilbourn Woods, she owns the boutique Wilbourn Sisters Designs in Atlanta, Georgia, and Los Angeles, California. Carolyn's career has taken her to Paris, where she designed for American singers, and to Heidelberg, Germany, under the label CJ Wilbourn for New York Design. Her collections feature elegant avant-garde clothing crafted from fine silks, linens, and exotic tapestries, as well as sequined designs. Currently, her collection showcases a blend of woven tapestries, distressed denims, and neoprene Scoba fabrics, featuring jackets with unique cuts and high-low wrap styles, complemented by distinctive accessories.
Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence Application
Please ensure your application is complete with all required materials submitted by the deadline of September 16, 2024, to be considered for our program.
FAQs
What is the Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence?
The Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence is a prestigious program designed to provide comprehensive education and mentorship in all aspects of the fashion industry. It offers a unique opportunity for emerging talents to hone their skills, network with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights into the fashion world.
Who is eligible to apply?
The program is open to individuals who are passionate about pursuing a career in the fashion industry. Applicants must be 18 years or older. There are no specific educational requirements, but a strong interest in fashion and creativity is essential.
How do I apply?
To apply for the Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence, please fill out the online application form available on our website above. Be sure to provide all required information and submit any supporting materials, such as a portfolio or resume, by the application deadline.
When is the application due?
The deadline for applications is September 16, 2024. Late submissions will not be considered, so be sure to complete your application well before the deadline.
Is there a cost to apply or participate in the program?
No, there is no application fee or cost to participate in the program. It is entirely free for accepted cohorts.
What can I expect if I’m selected for the program?
If selected, you will have the opportunity to participate in a series of workshops, mentorship sessions, and networking events led by industry experts. You will also gain access to our open studio space, where you can collaborate with fellow cohorts and work on your projects.
Can I apply if I don’t live in the same city as the program?
Yes, the Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence welcomes applicants from all locations. However, please note that you will be responsible for your own transportation and accommodation if you are selected to participate in in-person events.
How will I know if I’ve been selected for the program?
All applicants will be notified of their application status via email within a few weeks after the application deadline.
If you have any further questions about the Fashion Innovators Designer in Residence or the application process, please email dparkfashion@pgahc.org.
