FDM program was delighted to host students from Lahaninaluna High School for a hands-on introduction to Fashion Computer-Aided Design, Electronic Textiles, and Design & Sewing.

A big thank you to Dr. Reilly, Dr. Bahng, Dr. McCarthy, Dr. Kang, and Dr. Adeleke for making this event possible. Students enjoyed an engaging sewing workshop that built on their existing skills, explored basic computer-aided design in Fashion CAD, and experimented with innovative e-textile technologies, creating their own stitched LED Smiley circuit!

It was inspiring to see the students actively learning, creating, and imagining the future of fashion and technology.

By Dr Olaitan Adeleke

On Feb 18th, the Fashion Design Merchandising program (FDM) welcomed seven students and three teachers from Maui's Baldwin High School (established in 1938) to our campus. The high school students and teachers had the opportunity to learn about the FDM program, various career pathways, and fashion computer-aided design. Dr. Reilly organized this event. Dr. Kang introduced the FDM program and led an engaging workshop in the AgSci computer lab, where participants gained hands-on experience with Optitex, an industry-standard 3D fashion design software. The Poʻo Academy at Baldwin High School in Maui houses several career pathways, including Fashion & Artisan Design, Digital Design, and Marketing Management. Thus, Baldwin High School is one of the key high schools that FDM faculty prioritize for building long-term academic relationships. Our FDM faculty actively works with many high schools across Oʻahu and Maui as part of FDM’s student recruitment and outreach strategy. From Maui to Manoa, it was a joy to have this group on campus!!

By Dr Ju-Young Kang

The FDM Fashion Exhibition is celebrating its 60th anniversary with a special two-day event at the Campus Center Ballroom on May 4th and 5th, 2026.

A core team of 15 students has been organizing the exhibition, handling everything from branding and planning to fundraising. This event features work from several classes, with a highlighted collaboration on a historical museum exhibition.

We will be releasing more information shortly. Please check on @uhmfashionshow and @fdm_uhm

We are also seeking event sponsorship. Please send any inquiries to the Fashion Exhibition team PR, Jessica Ramey, at rameyj@hawaii.edu

By Dr Minako McCarthy

The Fashion Design and Merchandising program had the opportunity to take part in this year’s Discover Mānoa event, where prospective students, families, and community members explored academic programs across campus. Our FDM booth welcomed a steady stream of visitors who were eager to learn more about the major and the hands-on experiences it offers.

We extend our appreciation to the five student representatives from the Stole Society and to the faculty members for their active engagement throughout the event. Their conversations with visitors helped highlight the strengths of the program and the creative opportunities available to FDM students. Younger attendees especially enjoyed the balloon animals crafted by our student participants, adding a fun and memorable element to the booth. Thank you to everyone in FDM who contributed to making our participation successful. Your support continue to strengthen our program’s presence in the UH Mānoa community.

By Ju-Young Kang

The Kalo Grant program continues to support Fashion Design & Merchandising students as they transform their ideas into impactful ventures. This semester, two FDM majors were awarded $500 in seed funding for their business concepts. Amelie Berg is developing Well Within, a platform designed to strengthen community connection through locally led classes, services, and wellness-focused experiences. Skylar Conley is building Da Rack, a mobile shop that delivers a curated blend of locally made art, vintage finds, and secondhand clothing. Through Kalo Grants, FDM students gain the early resources and encouragement needed to bring their entrepreneurial visions to life. For additional details, please refer to the UH News article.

By Mark Oandasan