In the 2020 winter semester, the Accessory Design course ran a semester project with the Italian sole manufacturer Vibram. Fourth semester students developed a shoe collection on the topic of Footwear NOW “What impact is the global pandemic having on us, our social environment and our need for safety and protection?”. The sole as a supporting element played a major role in this, which was discussed in an intensive exchange with the Vibram designer. In addition, Vibram offers some students the opportunity to join their worldwide study network in order to exchange ideas with other students. As one of the best-known and largest companies on the market, Vibram is always on the lookout for innovation, sustainability and progress and is therefore an important cooperation partner for us.

In collaboration with the company Fidlock, the students develop fasteners of their own design, which are even produced as prototypes for their collection. Fidlock is an expert in magnetic-mechanical technology, so that the moment of opening and closing becomes an experience. Regular exchanges are an important element in ensuring that design and function are coordinated in the best possible way.

Offers a sustainable solution in the field of leather and cooperates with our study program as an important raw material supplier. A vegetable tanning agent, completely free of harmful substances, for the production of beautiful, healthy leather. It is also completely biodegradable. For a responsible future for people and the environment.

Students designed trophy bags for the ILM Award, which were produced by the Hessian bag manufacturer Picard. Projects also regularly take place as part of the international leather goods trade fair, where the accessory design students created concepts for their advertising pillars and can present their project work to the industry at a sponsored trade fair stand. 

Prof. Alexandra Schwarz and Daniel Bruendl, Senior Designer at the luxury brand Porsche Design, supervised the 3rd semester in a joint design project. The kick-off of the project is an intensive briefing in Bietigheim-Bissingen with regard to Porsche Design Women accessories: what are the design ideas for one of the most desirable and practical accessories, the handbag. As part of a study excursion with Daniel Bruendl and Prof. Alexandra Schwarz, the 3rd semester Accessory Design got to know production sites and suppliers such as tanneries and metal accessory companies for Porsche Design women's accessories. The twelve 3rd semester AD students each developed a shopper, a shoulder bag and a clutch for the study project with the Porsche Design Group. The shoulder bags and evening bags were presented during the exhibition.