In response to the fashion industry’s overwhelming demand for innovation and multi-disciplinary approaches, 20 of New York’s leading service providers formed the Fashion Service Network (FSN), a group of experienced and seasoned professionals delivering solutions and opportunities to the industry. It is the goal of the FSN to assist fashion companies seeking to expand, strengthen, and energize their business.
The Fashion Service Network is committed to giving back for the future of the fashion industry, and to this end the organization awards a scholarship to two academically deserving students. The recipients are selected by FIT faculty in their final year at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
To date the Fashion Service Network has awarded 10 scholarships. In addition to the financial award, the FSN invites all recipients to participate in their meetings and events. Members are always available to offer a broad range of expert advice and direction for the scholars regarding their careers.
Fashion Mannuscript turned to the FIT faculty to interview one of the past scholarship winners, Rosemary Paone, to hear just how much this award has meant to her.
Meet Rosemary Paone, class of 2016 recipient of the FSN Scholarship Award.
FIT: How did the (FSN) scholarship help you academically and artistically?
Rosemary: This scholarship has allowed me the freedom to explore my studies more broadly and to experiment with luxury fabrications for my senior thesis collection that I otherwise couldn’t have chosen. With the support of FSN, my collection featured rich Italian lambskin leather, exotic pony-hair, high-tech synthetic rubberized material, and ultra reflective details.
How were you chosen for the scholarship?
The scholarship award was based on academic merit. I have always been a very academically driven student. I have worked extremely hard throughout my four years at FIT and am honored to have been selected for such a prestigious award. The recognition for my work came as a complete surprise and that definitely made it even more special.
You’ve forged lasting relationships with several FSN members. Can you tell us about that?
My relationship with FSN members is invaluable. Upon receiving the scholarship, I attended an FSN meeting. I saw how influential the members are in the fashion industry. It was eye-opening to sit among some of the most powerful businessmen and women in the industry and get a glimpse into what drives the fashion business. I look forward to being a part of meetings and continuing to create connections.
Your educational experience has been filled with remarkable achievements and experiences. Did you anticipate anything like this?
Pursuing my passion of studying fashion design was a big leap of faith. As a teenager entering college, I never imagined all the adventures and accomplishments I would tackle during my time at FIT. Never did I think I would live in Italy for almost two years!
Through the Presidential Scholars Program at FIT and the Jerome L. Greene Foundation, I was able to learn from Italian professors, work with top European designers, visit cities throughout Europe collecting inspiration, and connecting with my Italian heritage. The experience shaped my perspective as a designer.
As for receiving the Critic’s Choice Award in Sportswear from Dennis Basso, that was a completely wonderful shock! I am just thrilled that such an incredible industry professional appreciated my design and hard work.
What was it like working with Dennis Basso as a student designer?
Working with Dennis Basso was an amazing experience. He pushed me to venture out of my comfort zone and work with new materials like pony hair. He appreciated my vision and designs. He knew how to make suggestions that elevated my work to another level of luxury.
Your designs are sassy with personal expression. How would you describe your style?
I strive to design clothes that are unique, elegant and functional. One of the greatest things I learned while studying in Italy, was the importance of true quality and craftsmanship. I try to implement that sense of luxury and attention to detail in all my designs.
Tell us about your career today.
Since graduating FIT, I have accepted a position with lululemon athletica doing in-house design as part of their Joinery Design program.
Any advice for the next FSN Scholarship winner on how to get the most of her or his educational experience?
Use this opportunity to push yourself outside your comfort zone.
For more information about FSN or FIT visit: www.fashionservicenetwork.com or www.fitnyc.edu.
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