Jessica Ciarla

Jessica Ciarla is an Associate Professor of Instruction in the Division of Textiles and Apparel at the University of Texas at Austin’s School of Human Ecology. An experienced fashion designer and entrepreneur, she previously spent eight years in New York City leading design, PR, and marketing efforts for prominent fashion houses before founding her bridal label CIARLA bride in Austin in 2009.

Education

• Masters in Fashion Design Advanced, Polimoda International Institute of Design and Marketing, Italy
• M.A. in Mass Communications & Journalism (Public Relations concentration), 2015
• Ph.D. in Sustainable Design (in progress), Iowa State University

Research & Teaching Focus

Professor Ciarla’s scholarly and pedagogical work centers on sustainable fashion systems, accessory innovation, and experiential learning that blends art, technology, and entrepreneurship. She designs course structures emphasizing student-led problem solving and interdisciplinary collaboration, having created the first-ever TXA 365 Accessory Design, Development and Merchandising course in partnership with Kendra Scott. Her research explores sustainable embellishment technologies and circular design strategies, supported by an NSF I-Corps grant and a pending utility patent.

Scientific & Educational Awards

• UT Proof of Concept Award 2022-2023
• Global Career Award – Odevaiwear 2022-2023
• Global Career Award – Copenhagen 2021-2022
• President’s Award for Global Learning 2019-2021
• Experiential Learning Grant 2021
• Kendra Scott WEL Institute Academic Fellow
• NSF I-Corps Grant – Sustainable Embellishments
• CSEF Award – TIDES Course Redesign

Leadership & Mentorship

She serves as Co-Chair of the UT Faculty Women’s Organization and founding fellow of the WEL Institute’s Academic Committee. Through these roles she mentors women across campus and has guided the winning team of the 2019-2020 President’s Award for Global Learning, which conducted trans-Atlantic research on sustainable embellishments in Copenhagen and Stockholm.

Digital & Industry Engagement

As Founder and Social Media Director of TXA (@UTAustinFashion), Professor Ciarla curates and manages content across multiple platforms, further connecting students with global industry leaders.