New Fashion Career Expo prepares CVAD students for careers in design

Aug. 28, 2025 — The UNT College of Visual Arts and Design’s Department of Design is launching its inaugural Fashion Career Expo, designed to give students direct access to industry leaders in an intimate, networking-focused setting.

The event is a collaboration among the Michael W. Faircloth Fashion Design Program, the Fashion Design Student Organization and the UNT Career Center.

The event was organized with fashion students in mind, but all UNT students and high school students interested in learning more about the apparel industry are welcome to attend. UNT students are encouraged to register for the Fashion Career Expo on Handshake. The expo will take place on Sept. 4 from 5 to 7 p.m. on the second floor of the Art Building near Room 257. 

Students will have the opportunity to meet representatives from regional and national fashion companies, including Catalyst Brands, Elizabeth Lee Bridal, Haggar, Harkensback, JCPenney, Starline Costumes, the Texas Fashion Collection, Varsity Spirit and Westmoor Manufacturing. Many of the professionals are UNT alumni who will share their career paths and offer advice to students, said Barbara Trippeer, associate professor of Fashion Design, and co-organizer with Delaney Smith-Vaughn, CVAD career coach and student services coordinator.

The expo is structured as a “meet and greet,” encouraging students to visit tables, ask questions and gain feedback on resumes and portfolios. The event supports UNT’s mission to prepare undergraduates for professional success by building connections that can lead to internships and post-graduation opportunities.

“This is our first career expo dedicated specifically to fashion design, and we hope to make it an annual tradition as we continue to strengthen ties with the apparel industry,” Trippeer said.

M.F.A. students in fashion design will assist with the event as part of their preparation for careers as educators, while also gaining exposure to industry perspectives and insights.

Questions? Please email Barbara Trippeer at Barbara.Trippeer@unt.edu.