A Flower Bud was developed using tie-dye techniques and completed as a finished garment. This group project was created by freshmen and sophomore students as part of an additional course project focused on integrated fashion design.

A total of ten undergraduate students volunteered to participate. Each student was assigned a different tie-dye technique to create fabrics within a shared theme. Two students volunteered as project managers and supervised the tie-dye procedure to meet the design theme. Also, three students volunteered as sewing operators to complete the outfit. One freshman student completed over 60% of the sewing work.

Competing alongside senior-level projects, this project was accepted as a finalist for presentation at the International Textile Apparel & Association (ITAA) conference. The outstanding students from FDM 221, Spring 2025, include: Ayla Alameida, Livia Langmade, Mana Yano, Azure Wasson, Coyan Magniez, & Sophie Malooly.

The Flower Bud tie-dye fabric was submitted to the ITAA by their professor and ITAA sponsor, Dr. Shu-Hwa Lin. The ITAA design competition is highly competitive, with an undergraduate acceptance rate of only 36.5%, making this recognition a significant milestone for the students. Competing as freshmen and sophomores against senior design majors from around the world highlights their creativity, skill, and dedication.

Having their work accepted for this international exhibition means that the students’ efforts and designs are being recognized at a global level. Attached image shows the Flower Bud fabric development process. Additional images will be available after the ITAA meeting on November 26, 2025.

By Shu Hwa Lin

Hi FDM!

I’m sure some of you may have seen me around, but this is my chance to officially introduce myself to the FDM family. I’m Dr. Olaitan Adeleke, the newest addition to the faculty and I’ll also be the one bringing you our department newsletter!

My research focuses on wearable technology and smart textiles, where fashion meets electronics to create innovative and functional designs. We’re currently in the exciting process of setting up a new lab dedicated to this area, and I can’t wait to see the creative possibilities it will inspire.

This spring, I’ll be teaching FDM 491-3: Wearable Technology & Smart Textiles, a hands-on course for anyone who loves to experiment with textiles, sensors, and design innovation. If that sounds like your kind of fun (or research direction), keep an eye out for the course or feel free to reach out via email. I’m so thrilled to be here and can’t wait to collaborate, learn, and create with all of you.

Mahalo!

By Olaitan Adeleke

Marisa Kim, a design track student in FDM and the 2024-2025 president of the FDM student club, Stole Society (SS),  has been awarded the 2025 undergraduate Ka Hana Po'pkela award. Her outstanding leadership and compassionate nature has greatly nurtured the club, especially the SS officers and members who actively participated in club events throughout the year. Marisa is a student role-model, who supports others and who is dedicated to FDM and the Stole Society. FDM is happy to recognize her with this award!

By McCarthy Minako