Applicants who have extensive work experience in merchandising or who have a college degree in a related area are not required to do this project. For applicants who are new to merchandising concepts, please complete the project below. If in doubt, consult your Admissions Advisor.
Merchandise Marketing Exercise
The Entrance Requirement Project described below can also be downloaded as a printable PDF file by clicking here.
Imagine you are a Store Owner or Buyer and you must create a description of your customer according to what she or he wears.
Describe the typical customer who would shop at your store, catalog, or website.
In your essay, include the following about your customer:
- Age range
- Gender
- Environment (urban, suburban, country, etc.)
- Income range
- Lifestyle (job, leisure activities, family life, etc.)
- Values and viewpoints
- Marital status
- Education
Present five (5) accessorized outfits (cut out of magazines, catalogs, or photographs) that would match the varied lifestyle of your customer, including
eveningwear, careerwear, sportswear, casualwear, etc. Include price points and
the name of your favorite company.
Important Notes
Use 8.5" x 11" paper and a medium you feel comfortable with, which may include colored pencils, felt tip pens, watercolors, etc. (please, no pastels, chalk, or charcoal). Computer graphics, magazine/catalog clippings, or photographs are also acceptable in presenting your work.
Be prepared to discuss the types of customers targeted and the types of merchandise shown in your project.
Your work will be reviewed for creativity and quality of presentation. Remember: A neat presentation is always advantageous. All work submitted to FIDM becomes the property of the college and will not be returned.
