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

Kristin Lencz, the owner of Ku'u Hawaii (company website: kuuhawaii.com) and Aroma by K, visited our campus to join FDM 437 Entrepreneurship in Retail (Instructor: Youngjin Bahng) as a guest speaker on September 12th, 2023.  Ku'u Hawaii provides face and body products made out of natural ingredients with the highest quality. Their Hawaii ocean and garden candle and candle holder series are very popular to both Hawaii local residents and tourists. During the class, Kristin shared her business experience from how she started her business to what her future plans are. She also shared her personal life story as a female entrepreneur and gave students sincere advice. In addition, students had a fun activity time making their own facial toner using natural ingredients and aroma essential oils. We truly appreciate Kristin's dedication to FDM, and her time and effort to inspire our students. -written by Youngjin Bahng​

Listen to one of UHM's very own Fashion Design Merchandising professors, Dr. Andy Reilly talks about the meanings of dress, why people wear clothing, and why it is important. He discusses the origin of clothing (was it protection or something else like status or ritual), the power of consumers, and how clothing is a dynamic reflection of culture, society, psychology, economy, politics, art, philosophy, and technology (LINK: Spotify for Podcaster) -written by Michael Davis