FIT Grad Update: Grace Coleman on Textiles’ Role in Design & Classmate Connections
For many students, college coursework is the first step toward building a career in their chosen field. Exemplifying this, a number of graduates from the Fashion Institute of Technology’s denim class have gone on to work in the industry. Carved in Blue is catching up with students from the course to see where their post-graduate lives have taken them.
Grace Coleman, who graduated from FIT in 2014, has gone on to work for Ralph Lauren and Gap. Speaking with Carved in Blue, she shared what sparked her early interest in textiles and the experience of encountering fellow FIT alums.
Carved in Blue: What attracted you most to a career in denim and textiles?
Grace: I knew at a very early age that I wanted a career in fashion. I was fortunate to have been exposed to the principles of archiving textiles as an intern throughout high school and college at the Design Library in Wappingers Falls, NY. I gained experience in the process of cataloguing, organizing, filing and retrieving their vast historic collection of textile designs. It was there that I acquired an appreciation for the rich heritage of textiles and their critical importance to designers of all types.
Carved in Blue: Since graduating from FIT, what has been your career path?
Grace: After earning degrees in Fabric Styling and Fashion Design from FIT, I secured a position with Ralph Lauren in fabric R&D for denim. In this position, I bridged creative and operations. After 7.5 years with Ralph Lauren, I recently took a job with Gap for women’s denim wash development. I am able to continue to work in this new area of denim while having the fabric foundation from my previous job.
Carved in Blue: Reflecting on your time at FIT, what has been the most useful lesson (from in or outside the classroom) that you’ve been able to apply to your work?
Grace: FIT is such a diverse school and community. I have been able to still stay connected with a lot of classmates and even worked with them at various jobs. It is an instant connection when someone also went to FIT.
Carved in Blue: If you could give your collegiate self one piece of advice, what would it be? What do you wish you knew when you were a student?
Grace: There will be roadblocks, setbacks and numerous challenges, but to stay determined and focused. Take every opportunity to learn different areas of the fashion industry.
Carved in Blue: What would you like to see more (or less) of in the denim/textile industry?
Grace: I am excited to learn more on how we can use lasering in the wash process!