The Stole Society, an FDM student club, as a RIO (Registered Independent Organization), recently worked on an upcycled project. Motivated student members and an instructor created various upcycled, one-of-a-kind garments and sold the items at the campus center on Dec 4, 2023. We will continue working on the project next semester. The next Rainbow Bazaar will be sometime in early 2024. Please let us know if you have any gently used garments and want to join us. SS President: Quinn Curammeng--quinnkln@hawaii.edu -written by Minako McCarthy

Dr. Ju-Young Kang (FDM)’s research article, titled “Artificial intelligence-powered digital solutions in the fashion industry: A mixed-methods study on AI-based customer services,” has been published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education [LINK]. Using a sequential mixed-methods approach, this research examined customer experiences with and the uses and gratifications of AI chatbots as AI-based customer services and the influence of customers’ perceptions of service quality in AI-based customer services on favorable customer experiences, brand loyalty, and purchase loyalty.  For more information, read the full article [LINK] -written by Ju-Young Kang

During this fall 2023 semester, the FDM 495: Capstone Portfolio class had the great opportunity to meet and talk stories with two local fashion designers, Matt Bruening (Bruening label) and Allison Izu Song (Allison Izu label). The two designers shared their background information, their triumphs and challenges in the fashion industry, and what they are looking forward to accomplishing in the near future. The FDM seniors were encouraged to ask questions such as what to expect after graduation, as well as what advice they can share with new fashion graduates in a very competitive field. The FDM seniors were thrilled that the designers disclosed their experiences and insights and are grateful to have met with Matt and Allison. We are truly appreciative to have Matt and Allison’s unwavering support all these years. They have been the best mentors to FDM students in our internship program, as well as very active FDM Advisory Board members. Mahalo, Matt and Allison! -written by Marie Cristi-Kim