Fashion & French Culture in Paris with CWC Fellow Kaleyce

This summer, CWC Year 3 Fellow Kaleyce, a freshman at Drexel University majoring in fashion design, studied Fashion Design and French Culture in Paris through the CIEE study abroad program. With the help of CWC, which supplemented the necessary funding for this opportunity, Kaylece immersed herself in the vibrant world of French fashion and culture. 

Kaleyce in Paris

Kaleyce describes her time in Paris as "absolutely wonderful and memorable," she was captivated by the beauty of the city. Some of her favorite spots included the elegant Place Vendôme and Avenue Montaigne, and she even had the chance to visit Lyon, which quickly became another cherished destination.

Also while in Paris Kaleyce explored the Dior Gallery and the Louis Vuitton exhibit, both of which left a lasting impression. The program’s highlight was the Global Navigator Fashion Show, where she presented her own ensemble titled “Amor Pur,” or Pure Love. Although the footage didn’t fully capture the intricacies of her work, she felt a deep sense of accomplishment in showcasing her designs to an international audience.

Kaleyce exploring Paris

Kaleyce’s view of the Eiffel Tower

Here’s more from Kaleyce about her experience:

1. What were some of your main tasks during the internship?

My main tasks were to design and sew a staple of classic French fashion and a matching headpiece to present during the Global Navigators Fashion Show.

2. What are two main things you learned during your internship?

The two main things I learned during my internship were the origins of fashion in France and the techniques used and invented by French designers such as Haute Couture and Avant Garde.

3. Did the internship change your perspective on anything?

The internship changed my perspective on how the fashion industry is conducted around the world and how fashion is ingrained in France's culture, especially in Paris. Before going to Paris, I had no idea that so many great designers were French. I also didn't know that there are specific policies and procedures that French designers follow that allow their craftsmanship standards to exceed the rest of the world.

4. Are there any projects you are particularly proud of?

The project I am most proud of is the outfit I made for the Global Navigators Fashion Show and the matching veil.

5. What aspects of the internship were your favorite?

My favorite aspects of the internship were the fashion museums such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs. Learning about the rich history of fashion in Paris gave me a new perspective on what it means to be a designer in France, and I also loved meeting new friends from places like Guatemala, Thailand, and China, to name a few.

Kaleyce with other students participating in CIEE program.

With the help of CWC this experience left Kaleyce with new insights, inspiration, and connections that will shape her future in fashion.

We are proud to support Black talent like Kaleyce.