Fashion Institute of Design And Merchandising, LA

The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) is a private college in downtown Los Angeles. The college was founded in 1969 by Tonian Hohberg, the institute's president and CEO. In 2023, Arizona State University (ASU) announced that the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising in downtown Los Angeles will be part of the expansion of ASU's fashion education program, which will now be named ASU FIDM, and will operate in both Los Angeles and Phoenix. 

The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) was established in 1969 by Tonian Hohberg in downtown Los Angeles. Recognizing the need for a specialized institution in Southern California, Hohberg founded FIDM to provide focused education in fashion and design. Initially offering a one-year program, the institute quickly expanded to meet the growing demand for fashion education .
 

In 1973, FIDM initiated the creation of its museum, which began as a collection of garments assembled by faculty members. The museum's first exhibit consisted of these garments, marking the beginning of what would become a significant fashion museum. Over the years, the museum's collection has grown to include over 15,000 pieces, representing more than 200 years of fashion history, including haute couture, ready-to-wear, and film costumes .
 

By the 1990s, FIDM had expanded its offerings to include programs in interior design, beauty, and digital media, reflecting the evolving landscape of the creative industries. The institute's commitment to providing comprehensive education in various design disciplines has contributed to its reputation as a leading institution in the field .

ASU launched its first four-year fashion degree in 2017 as a program in the School of Art in the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. Led by Dennita Sewell, the program was created in response to student demand and by spring 2023 had more than 500 students either majoring or minoring in fashion, with hundreds more from disciplines across the university who take individual classes.

In 2021, the program moved to the brand new Fusion on First building in Downtown Phoenix. During its first few years, the program also built partnerships with industry leaders and local collaborators, including Optitex, Dress for Success, the Arizona Humane Society and Phoenix Children’s Hospital. In 2023, the program became a school and expanded to Los Angeles, becoming ASU FIDM.

ASU FIDM builds on the legacy of Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising (FIDM), founded in 1969 by Toni Hohberg, and on ASU’s expertise and innovation around fashion and the creative industries to provide the best education and opportunities for students. In its more than 50-year history, FIDM developed and evolved cutting-edge fashion, design and business degree programs. Alumni include designer Monique Lhuillier; Rea Ann Silva, founder of Beautyblender; Sarah Truly Beers, Marvel’s vice president of franchise creative and marketing; Kia Ragland, director of global product development at Smashbox Cosmetics; and costume designer Trish Summerville (“Red Sparrow,” “Westworld,” “Gone Girl,” “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire”).

Throughout its history, FIDM has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of fashion education, producing notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the industry. Its commitment to innovation and excellence in design education continues to influence the field, even as its legacy transitions into the ASU FIDM program.

As one of the most iconic fashion schools in LA, the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising has built a reputation for equipping graduates with skills for careers in fashion, beauty, entertainment, and technology. The institute focuses on producing visionary leaders who will shape industries and drive innovation.

Combining faculty expertise with industry partnerships, the Fashion Institute of Design And Merchandising offers MBA, B.A., B.S., and A.A. programs. Students gain invaluable, hands-on experience with Classroom Partner Projects and collaborations with global giants like Disney, Nike, and Pixar, preparing them to excel in a fast-paced, competitive environment. Through a tech-driven education, the institute integrates traditional skills with digital tools, fostering a dynamic environment.

A letter from FIDM’s founder explains the institute’s ethos: “We’re a one-of-a-kind college of the applied arts, where your creative talent, academic engagement, and determination are fostered by a dedicated faculty and staff. You’ll also be energised by fellow students from diverse backgrounds, across the country and around the globe, with creative objectives and ideas like yours. Part of the stimulating campus life at FIDM comes from career guidance, student activities that include challenging projects, exposure to industry experts, and cultural experiences…”

FIDM's MBA program is tailored specifically for professionals in the fashion, design, and creative industries. It offers concentrations in areas like Fashion Merchandising, Product Development, and Entertainment Marketing, aiming to equip students with industry-specific business skills. The curriculum includes courses such as Micro and Macro Economics, Financial Literacy, and Case Studies in Business Management .

However, The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles does not appear in major global MBA rankings such as the QS Global MBA Rankings 2025 or the Financial Times Global MBA Rankings 2025 as it is designed to provide specialized knowledge and skills for individuals seeking leadership roles in the fashion and creative sectors. 

The Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in Los Angeles has a strong track record of preparing students for careers in the fashion and creative industries. According to data from Niche, approximately 88% of FIDM graduates are employed two years after graduation, and 90% are employed six years after graduation. Additionally, College Factual reports that FIDM graduates earn an average early career salary of $37,000, which is competitive within the field.
 

FIDM's strong industry connections further enhance job prospects for its students. The institute's location in Los Angeles, a global fashion hub, facilitates internships and employment opportunities with leading fashion brands, retailers, and design firms. The institute has cultivated influential alumni who have significantly impacted the fashion, entertainment, and design industries. Among its notable graduates are Monique Lhuillier, renowned for her elegant bridal and evening wear; Marina Toybina, an Emmy-winning costume designer celebrated for her work on The Masked Singer ; and Lauren Conrad, a television personality and fashion entrepreneur. 

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