Fashion Design | Student Spotlight
MACKENZIE FOGG
FASHION DESIGN STUDENT
Mackenzie joined CAFA as an HSC Textiles & Design student in our mentoring program. She’s always known that she wanted a career in fashion and she’s set her sights on launching her own label. We’re super-excited to share her journey (so far) and we know there’s a LOT more to come for Mackenzie.
This basic bias cut fabric drape is part of Module 5, Draped Pattern Making in the Diploma course. Note the thread guidelines tacked into the fabric to ensure true bias is maintained.
CAFA: How did you learn to sew?
MF: I started in Year 10 with the Duke of Edinburgh Award. I needed a supervisor and found a teacher who’d made wedding dresses — I sewed with her for two years. She’s retired now and I still visit her every Tuesday for a catch up.
Mackenzie’s HSC major work. Not only was this beautiful detached train and bow designed by Mackenzie, the photography and photo composition is also her work.
CAFA: When did you become interested in fashion as a career?
MF: I started drawing dresses in pre-school — I've never wanted to do anything else! I studied Textiles and Design in Years 10, 11 and 12 and did the HSC Mentoring program with CAFA. My Major Work was a four-piece wedding pants suit with a detachable train and reversible bodice. I wanted to create a set of garments that could continue to be worn as an eveningwear capsule after the wedding day. I received a Band 6 and my work was shown in the Texstyle HSC exhibition.
The HSC Texstyle exhibition display of Mackenzie’s work.
CAFA: What are you studying now?
MF: I’m working on two separate qualifications — a Diploma of Fashion Design & Garment Production at CAFA as a part time student and a Bachelor of Business (Fashion & Global Brand Management) at ICMS as a full-time student. I’ll finish the degree in August this year and will then study full-time to complete my Diploma at CAFA.
This top is reversible, black on one side and ivory on the other. It is part of Mackenzie’s passion for versatile capsule wardrobes.
CAFA: Why did you decide to enrol in two courses?
MF: I started at CAFA as the Diploma is a good fit with my main career interests — in practical, hands-on design and construction. My family has a small business background and I’d planned to do a business course after I finished my Diploma to help me establish my own business. I received a scholarship from ICMS and as CAFA has flexible course attendance, I realised I could do both at the same time.
This classic bow tie blouse - a sample made from donated fabric - with a set in sleeve is part of the Module 1 and Module 2 Pattern Making program. The secret is to use a matt fabric so the bow stays done up and of course there is a trick to tying a perfect bow.
CAFA: How have you managed to attend both courses?
MF: I study three days a week at uni and two days at CAFA per week (more during my uni holidays). I do my uni assignments on the weekends and sometimes work in the family business. The CAFA Diploma lets me work at my own pace with no set homework. This way I can finish my education sooner.
This was an experiment for Mackenzie’s mother. Two second-hand coats were joined together - time-consuming, but it’s s a great result.
CAFA: What have you learned from the CAFA course?
MF: Pattern making and garment construction knowledge, couture finishing techniques and proper garment fit. I love draped pattern making as I can see my creations unfolding. I've also learnt about design and colour, how to design for different body types and how to alter existing garments for a better fit. I want well sewn finishes for my collections!
A beautiful cowl neck top that is covered in both in flat and draped pattern making Modules in the diploma.
Tools of the trade.
CAFA: Have you had any internships?
MF: My first internship was with the ICONIC. Interestingly, it started in Fashion Planning & Buying, but I ended up with the design team because of my fitting knowledge from my CAFA Diploma studies.
I’m currently doing an internship with DIOR in Visual Merchandising for stores and events and I’m really enjoying it. I’ve been able to put into practice the design and colour theory from my Diploma.
Mackenzie wearing one of her favorite designers. Watch this space!
CAFA: What do you want to do in your career in fashion?
MF. I want to establish a brand producing quality clothing. My main interest is in eveningwear, but I'm frustrated by the lack or quality, choice and consistency in other areas. I like capsule dressing and would also like to produce more casual dresses that can be amped up for eveningwear. My ethos is about owning fewer, higher quality garments.
CAFA: We wish you all the best with your career - but somehow, we don’t think you’ll need it : )