August 27, 2024 — Marist’s Fashion Program has earned a prestigious accolade, named one of the top 15 fashion programs in the U.S. by Vogue. This recognition places Marist at the forefront of institutions shaping the future of the fashion industry.

Vogue highlighted Marist for its range of hands-on immersive learning opportunities, such as the student-run boutique MPorium, the Silver Needle Runway annual fashion show, and student-produced fashion publications. The magazine also noted the College’s unique balance of proximity to New York City and a focused campus environment where creativity comes to life.

“What makes Marist Fashion so distinctive is our hallmark experiential learning opportunities that actively engage each student and prepare them for a strong college-to-career path that puts theory into practice,” said Jennifer Finn, Chair of the Marist Fashion Program. “Our students’ successes are testament to the high-quality education that we provide, and it’s an incredible honor for Vogue magazine to recognize these achievements.”

Marist students assist in the preparations for designer Francesca Liberatore's show in Milan, Italy. Photo by Carlo de Jesus/Marist College.

Experiential opportunities in Marist’s Fashion Program include MPorium, an entrepreneurial boutique retail store managed by students enrolled in the Retail Entrepreneurship course. MPorium provides students with invaluable hands-on experience across various aspects of the fashion business, from inventory management to customer service and marketing strategies.

Mporium's Dear New York themed boutique. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist College.

Another centerpiece of the program is the Silver Needle Runway, an annual fashion show that showcases garments designed by senior Fashion Design students, providing them with a platform to present their work in a professional runway setting.  

Internships, study abroad opportunities, and professional development are integral parts of the curriculum, creating an environment that uniquely prepares students for careers in the multifaceted fashion industry. This fits into the College’s strongly rooted liberal arts tradition, fostering a well-rounded education.

"The ability to communicate and present ideas, collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects, and think critically are the program’s goals in creating an ‘industry ready’ graduate," said Finn.

The focus on comprehensive education and real-world experience is reflected in the program’s high post-graduation employment rates, with Marist fashion alumni making significant contributions across the industry. All are taught by dedicated professors with years of industry experience.

The 38th Annual Silver Needle Runway show at Marist College. Photo by Nelson Echeverria/Marist College.

“I have never seen a faculty more dedicated to student success than the Fashion Faculty at Marist. They really go that extra mile for their students,” says Dr. Jacqueline Reich, Dean of the School of Communication and the Arts.

Marist also offers a four-year degree in fashion merchandising that students can complete at the College’s Florence campus. This puts students at the center of fashion history in one of the most culturally historic cities in Europe.