It starts with an idea, a dull pencil and an empty page in a sketchbook. It then goes through the process of becoming a product. There are sketches and designs, textures and fabrics, styles and prices and everything in between.

The Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM) is a college that offers majors that prepare students for a career in the fashion industry. In collaboration with the school, FIDM sponsors a group of  school students who have formed the  FIDM Fashion Club.

The purpose of the club is to teach the members about the fashion world while giving them access to FIDM and the opportunities and scholarships it offers. The club focuses on all different aspects of fashion, from business to the process of coming up with ideas.

“I think this club is a great way to meet people interested in what I’m interested in,” Co-president sophomore Kathryn Shawcase said. “Unique, like-minded individuals can create great things. I really wanted to provoke thought and creation out of people. Everyone has something to share. Different skills, connections, even a different perspective. We want to unify everyone and their different assets to make something great.”

This brand new club has big ideas for the rest of the year and the years to come, including scrapbooking fashion events that take place throughout the year. Another idea is having fashion shoots with members of the club taking on the roles of the models, designers and photographers.

“Our goals are to show our members the extent of the fashion industry with fun hands-on projects, go on field trips with the club, and ultimately run a successful fashion show at the end of the year,” Co-president sophomore Charlotte Arrouye said.

Aside from focusing on making clothes, FIDM explores the entire industry of fashion. The members of the club decide what they want to work on and what kind of projects they want to do. The club is open to all students, regardless of their fashion background or interest.

“Anyone can join our club,” Kathryn said.  “You don’t have to have loads of money to spend on clothes, you don’t have to like shopping and you don’t have to have model looks. If you are interested in the world around you, from jewelry to patterns, you will fit in. We’re all learning and we’re all teaching each other.”

Hannah said that her favorite thing about fashion is that all parts of the industry come together to create something cohesive.

“There is the model and photographer, the graphic designer and the person who made the garment, along with so many others who work to produce something great for consumers to look at,” Hannah said.

The FIDM club also has a blog site in the works. Members hope that their success will lead to FIDM becoming a strong and involved club at school.

“Throughout the year I want our club to be able to learn about the  various [aspects] of the industry while still appealing to our member’s interests,” Charlotte said. “I also hope that we are able to bond and have fun while giving back to our community.”