Located in Paris, France, ESMOD, or École Supérieure des Arts et Techniques de la Mode (Higher School of the Arts and Techniques of Fashion), is one of the oldest, most established, and most well-respected fashion schools in the world. Alexis Lavigne, the French tailor and innovator who’s often credited with inventing the flexible measuring tape and advancing modern pattern-making techniques, founded ESMOD in 1841. His desire to bring structure and technical precision to fashion design helped transform it from a craft learned through apprenticeship into a more formalized field of study.

Since its founding in Paris, ESMOD has been closely tied to the development of haute couture, or high-value, custom-made clothing, and the fashion industry in France. Paris is considered to be the global epicenter of fashion, and the school’s location places it at the heart of that tradition. Over time, ESMOD has expanded beyond France and now operates campuses in multiple countries, building an international reputation while maintaining its emphasis on technical training, garment construction, and design fundamentals.

The school is particularly known for its focus on pattern drafting and the practical skills required for garment production, distinguishing it from programs that emphasize only conceptual or artistic design. This balance between creativity and technique has helped sustain its reputation within the industry. Many graduates go on to work in fashion houses, design studios, and related fields, contributing to fashion’s continued influence. Because of its long history and connection to the Paris fashion world, ESMOD represents both tradition and professional credibility. It reflects a model of fashion education that values precision, discipline, and industry readiness, while still engaging with evolving global design trends (“ESMOD 1841.” ESMOD). In the novel, Dani notes that she dreamed of living in Paris when she was young but, after her father’s death, settled on staying in New York to attend fashion school. However, as she grows more confident, her dream returns, and a major part of her dream and her future is attending ESMOD.