Merchandising, Apparel & Textiles

The Department of Merchandising, Apparel, and Textiles is committed to excellence as it prepares students for merchandising, apparel, and textiles positions in an increasingly diverse and technological world. Teaching, research, and service programs support student development and contribute to the economic and social well-being of the Commonwealth, the nation and the world. The department offers the Bachelor of Science in Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles. The graduate program offers either a Master of Science in Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles. There are currently 7 full-time faculty.

The Department of Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles prepares students for careers in the global retail industry. Graduates of this program find careers in which they apply the business and professional skills developed in the program. The major is designed for students who want to pursue careers in merchandising and retailing.

The retail industry is a major employer in the United States. There is a high demand for new professionals, particularly those graduating from four-year institutions, who can enter management training programs upon graduation. Students are prepared for a variety of careers in the retail industry such as buying, store management, visual merchandising, customer relations, and personnel. Graduates have also pursued careers in the textile industry, apparel manufacturing, wholesaling, and other areas of the retail industry.Faculty encourage student participation in industry sponsored research projects related to merchandising and product analysis. Internships are a required component of the program and can lead to permanent employment.

“Color Me Spring” Fashion Show

This event is a cooperative effort between the Merchandising, Apparel and Textiles Club and the Hospitality Management Association and is a fund raiser for both clubs.  The funds raised through this event help to support student participation in professional development opportunities such at attending state and national conferences and hosting guest speakers on campus. 

Friday, April 19th at 6:00pm

The event will begin at 6:00pm and features a pre-show silent auction and social time with hors d’oevrs and cocktails followed by the “Color Me Spring” fashion show which begins at 7:00pm.  The event will be in the E.S. Good Barn on the campus of The University of Kentucky at 1451 University Drive, Lexington.  Tickets are available now and are discounted if you purchase them before April 1st! 

Our students need your support!!

You can purchase a table or individual tickets!  Attendees are typically parents of the participating students, alumni of the program or affiliated with the University of Kentucky as faculty, staff or students.  We also have opportunities to be involved even if you are unable to attend the event through phantom tickets (which are tax deductible) or by donating items to be sold during our silent auction.  See below for details and contact information.

• Platinum Reserved Seating $350 ($300 before April 1st)

  Includes: Premium Reserved Table Seating for 8, Reserved Parking Passes, 8 premium (soda/beer/wine) drink tickets, Complementary Table Centerpiece, 8 Goodie Bags and party favors

• Gold Reserved Seating $30 ($25 before April 1st)

  Includes: Reserved Table Seating for 1, 1 soda drink tickets, Goodie Bag and party favor

• Phantom Platinum Supporter $300

  For our loyal Program Supporters and Alumni who would like to support the students’ efforts to raise funds for professional development and study abroad experiences but are unable to attend the Fashion Show (your contribution is tax-deductible)

• Phantom Gold Supporter $25

  For our loyal Program Supporters and Alumni who would like to support the students’ efforts to raise funds for professional development and study abroad experiences but are unable to attend the Fashion Show (your contribution is tax-deductible)

• Silent Auction Item Donation

  Donate a signature item from your business to be auctioned off during the pre-event Silent Auction.

To donate items for the silent auction or to purchase tables or tickets,

contact Dr. Tricia Day at 859-257-6025 or tricia.day@uky.edu

Visit our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/ColorMeSpring