Edessa Brings Exceptional Fashion Education to Milwaukee

Edessa Brings Exceptional Fashion Education to Milwaukee

Students at Edessa School of Fashion have unmatched opportunities to learn about the industry – and experience it firsthand.

Model Melanie Monroe wears a design by Faith Finfrock of The Realm beneath Luke Jerrams Museum of the Moon during Edessa School of Fashions Third Ward Moon Festival presentation; By Leonardt Horák

At just $100 per credit hour, about $3,000 per year, Edessa School of Fashion makes professional fashion education accessible without compromising opportunity.

While many fashion departments cost $39,000 annually, students at Edessa learn from faculty with real industry experience in New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco, including work with Ralph Lauren, Gap, Old Navy, Target, Land’s End, Todd Snyder, Liberty, Nordstrom, Neiman Marcus, JCPenney and Walmart.

Edessa School of Fashion students explore garments and sculptural headpieces at Silvester Makos pop-up exhibition in September 2026; By Leonardt Horák

At Edessa, the classroom connects directly to the industry. The school’s faculty bring practical expertise in design, retail management, buying and brand development, and they use their professional networks to help students pursue employment and career-building opportunities.

Edessa’s students take their work beyond campus. They present garments in New York City every year, celebrate their achievements on a Times Square billboard, and showcase collections in Chicago and throughout the region.

By participating in approximately 6-10 external fashion events each year, students gain the visibility, experience and confidence today’s fashion world demands.

Edessa School of Fashion students and faculty join designer Elena Velez (center left) and her mother, Holly (center right), backstage at Velezs Spring/Summer 2027 runway show; By Leonardt Horák

Flexible scheduling and virtual courses allow students to learn from expert professionals across the country. Edessa School of Fashion’s award-winning students have earned recognition in major design competitions and have been featured in magazines, newspapers, and other publications.

A model presents a pink swimsuit by Lynne Dixon-Speller at Indie Fash NY; By Leonardt Horák

This story is part of Milwaukee Magazine’s October 2026 issue.

Find it on newsstands or buy a copy at milwaukeemag.com/shop.

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