Jennifer Varekamp

Jennifer Varekamp is a Professor and Chair of the Fashion Design department at the Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt). She holds a BFA from MassArt and an M.Ed from Harvard University. Her professional background includes extensive work in costume design for theater productions, custom apparel design, and sustainable fashion initiatives.

• Education: BFA in Fashion Design (MassArt), M.Ed (Harvard University)
• Key Roles: Co-Founder of Sustainable Fashion Collaborative (2013-present), Former Costume Director at Boston Arts Academy (2001–2006)

Her research and practice focus on sustainable design methodologies, theatrical costume innovation, and bridging fashion education with industry needs. She has designed costumes for prestigious venues like Boston Symphony Hall and the Edinburgh Theatre Festival. Notable awards include the Surdna Arts Teacher Fellowship and recognition from the Ronald William Lane Designer Award.

Professional experience spans theater collaborations with institutions like Steppenwolf Theatre, custom apparel design for women and children, and textile specialization in dyeing and embroidery techniques. She actively engages in educational outreach through presentations at institutions like Houston's Contemporary Arts Museum.