SUSTAINABLE FASHION BUSINESS

In this capstone project for the fashion business specialization, students work in small teams to develop a holistic business plan for a fashion retailer. At the core of the proposed business is sustainable retail practices, with all proposals being required to focus on developing a business around circular fashion principles and concepts. Other parameters for the project are that the retailer must be in Manhattan, KS and it must be a traditional brick-and-mortar store. Over the course of the semester, utilizing knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout their fashion studies courses, the students conduct competitor and target market analyses, develop their sustainability business strategies, and utilize trend forecasting to create a merchandising and source plan. The teams also build extensive marketing strategies and put together visual merchandising plans. The project culminates in a poster and oral presentation of their work.