Two of the leading names in European fashion higher education located in Paris and Milan have joined forces to offer a unique two city, two country and four weeks summer study abroad programme in 2009.

At these two schools, in privileged downtown locations in the top creative capitals, students will first gain a valuable insight into the tradition, glamour and luxury of the major Parisian fashion houses before continuing south of the Alps, to experience the style, impeccable good taste and global phenomenon of the big brand players of the Milan based Italian fashion system.

Students can expect four weeks of â??hands onâ? workshops, lectures and off-campus walking tours and guided visits to ateliers, museums, high end retail emporiums and fashion shows that will feed their creative impulses.

The course is scheduled from June 15th to 26th in Paris (France) and offers a programme made up of 9 working days spending 45 hours in class, then students will have 3 day break for independent travel to Italy, and the second part of the course will take place in Milan (Italy), from June 29th to July 10th (9 working days, 45 hours).

At the end of this fast paced and absorbing programme, aimed at portfolio builders of an intermediate level or above, students will have recognised similarities and differences in style, concept, material, and culture (cultural personality) between two varying, yet complimentary trendsetting nations.

Ultimately, they will be able to draw parallels to their own cultural heritage and to define a relevant and personal style.

More detailed information about the courses are available at http://www.design-summer-courses.com/parsonsparis.html, or you can ask at paris-milan@naba.it and summer@parsons-paris.com.