Let me tell you about Michael Cheatwood, a man with a passion. A passion for shaping the next generation of creatives through an education that blends tradition with innovation. With an extensive background in fashion design, our academic director for the Bachelor in Fashion is passionate about shaping the next generation of creatives—those who aren’t afraid to experiment, take risks and redefine the industry, of course.
Fashion = culture
For Michael, fashion is a reflection of cultural shifts, identity and self-expression. That’s why our Bachelor in Fashion Design is built on four pillars: creativity, sustainability and social responsibility, technology and craft, and business. This unique approach ensures students develop a well-rounded skill set, preparing them to be both designers and changemakers.
“Our program is really for students who see fashion as more than just garments. It’s for those who wish to use it as a tool to shape culture and influence the future.”
A very hands-on Bachelor in Fashion Design
Fashion is best learned by doing, which is why this program is highly practical. Students work on real projects in state-of-the-art facilities, including our Fashion Studio and a Textile Lab, where they can experiment with growing plants for natural dyes and developing biomaterials.
“Our goal is to blend traditional craftsmanship with modern technology,” Michael explains. “Students here learn everything from hand-stitching to digital fashion and AI-driven design.”
This combination of technical skills and creative freedom allows students to push the boundaries of what fashion can be. Through interdisciplinary projects, they also collaborate with peers from other design fields, gaining fresh perspectives and insights that enrich their work.
The future of fashion is cross-disciplinary
One of the biggest advantages of our Bachelor in Fashion Design is its emphasis on interdisciplinary learning. Fashion doesn’t exist in a vacuum—it intersects with technology, business sustainability and design in ways that shape its evolution.
Technology & craft
Fashion tech is a fusion of tradition and innovation. Future designers need to master both digital and physical techniques, like 3D garment construction and AI-generated textiles. Every semester, students take part in garment construction and craft workshops, helping them refine their design process and push creative boundaries.
Design & innovation
Creativity thrives in collaboration. Students work on projects that bring together different design disciplines, gaining fresh perspectives through cross-disciplinary teamwork. From runway exhibitions to experimental design labs, they learn to think beyond the conventional.
Fashion & Sustainability
“We’re not here to engage in performative greenwashing. We want to empower students to drive real, lasting change in the industry.”
This means integrating sustainability into every aspect of the curriculum. From learning about eco-friendly materials to rethinking production processes, students gain the knowledge and tools to create fashion that is both innovative and responsible.
Business & entrepreneurship
Mastering your craft is essential to building a reputation, but sadly, it’s not enough to succeed as a fashion designer. Success in fashion requires talent, but also strategic thinking and an entrepreneurial mindset. Industry-led business courses help students understand the commercial side of fashion, from brand building to market analysis, ensuring they’ll finish their bachelor in fashion design with the skills to launch their own labels or thrive in major fashion houses.
The 3 best fashion movies for aspiring designers, according to Michael Cheatwood
For those looking for inspiration, Michael has a few go-to fashion documentaries that offer insight into the industry’s complexities:
Westwood: Punk, Icon, Activist
This film offers a deep dive into Vivienne Westwood’s rebellious spirit, showcasing her impact on fashion and culture. A true icon of the punk movement, Westwood pushed boundaries not just in style but in activism, making this documentary a must-watch for aspiring designers.
Unzipped
A behind-the-scenes look at the creative process of legendary designer Isaac Mizrahi. Unzipped takes you through the making of his 1994 collection, offering an intimate view of his world, filled with both humor and insight into the fashion industry’s inner workings.
The True Cost
This eye-opening documentary explores the consequences of fast fashion, examining its environmental, economic and human toll. Through compelling stories and facts, The True Cost challenges viewers to rethink the cost of cheap clothing, urging a shift toward sustainability in the fashion industry.
If you love fashion, you’ll love these films about creativity, innovation and the cultural significance of clothing.
A message to future students
Michael has one piece of advice for those considering a future in fashion: “Push boundaries, challenge the status quo and never stop learning.”
With a program that combines hands-on experience, sustainability, business acumen and cutting-edge technology, IE University is the perfect place to do just that. If you’re ready to be part of the next wave of fashion leaders, this is where your journey begins.