Los Angeles-based Herbalife Nutrition announced a design competition in collaboration with the prestigious Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM).
Kicking off with the new school year, the design challenge is part of a special Advanced Study Program, International Manufacturing & Product Development, where FIDM students will develop a line of activewear for Herbalife Nutrition’s independent distributors.
Participating FIDM students will be divided into teams and challenged to design and build a cohesive activewear collection that embodies a healthy and active lifestyle. The students will present their designs, inclusive of theme, colors, fabric and production and sourcing strategy, to the Herbalife Nutrition team and FIDM faculty members. The students’ final challenge will require the entire team to demonstrate how they will merchandise the individual student concepts as a cohesive collection. In addition to the group projects, each student will have the opportunity to participate in creating their own design.
“FIDM is one of the top design and fashion schools in the world, and shares a like-minded commitment to innovation and excellence, making them an exciting partner for this design challenge,” said Rich Goudis, CEO of Herbalife Nutrition. “Our collaboration on this project provides an opportunity for the next generation of creatives to develop apparel inspired by our entrepreneurs and employees who are purpose driven to help people lead a healthier and happier life.
More than 15 students were selected by FIDM faculty and staff to participate in International Manufacturing & Product Development. The program has begun and continues through late spring 2019.
“This is the 26th year that FIDM has partnered with a global brand to create a design competition for our students,” said Barbara Bundy, vice president of Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising. “Herbalife Nutrition joins companies such as Nike, who have educated and challenged our students in new and inspiring ways, and we are excited to work with the Herbalife Nutrition team to develop activewear that underscores the optimism and empowerment consumers garner from living their best, healthy and active life.”
As part of the project, students will immerse themselves in the global consumer marketplace and conduct in-depth research to wholly understand the millennial customer, the lifestyle of the Herbalife Nutrition Independent Distributor and the global reach and influence of athletes. As part of the course, students will have the opportunity to travel to global design hubs—from Milan to Paris, participate in working sessions with Herbalife Nutrition, as well as speak with Herbalife Nutrition leaders from around the globe and attend the company’s annual meeting in Houston.
