KATY HODGES
FASHION STUDENT
01 about
about
I'm Katy!
Hi! I am a junior at the University of Georgia, pursuing a degree in Fashion Merchandising with an emphasis in Brand Management. Throughout my time at UGA, I have not only developed academically but have also grown personally, broadening my perspective of the world and expanding my ability to approach situations from multiple points of view.
My passion for the fashion industry began early, something my parents can attest to, given the countless times I watched Barbie: A Fashion Fairytale. I have always been captivated by fashion’s ability to inspire confidence and self-expression. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be a part of a world that blends creativity, strategy and business.
I am particularly interested in the intersection of fashion and consumer behavior, understanding the motivations behind purchasing decisions and how brands cultivate loyalty. I enjoy styling and exploring the ever-changing world of retail. My mission is to contribute to the fashion industry in a way that empowers individuals, fosters inclusivity, and creates meaningful relationships.
02 portfolio
03 experience
Rouge Magazine
Rouge Magazine is the University of Georgia’s student-run fashion magazine. Made up of uniquely talented and passionate individuals, Rouge has made a lasting impact on the fashion community at UGA. During my time with Rouge, I have had the privilege of serving as both a stylist and communications coordinator.
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As a stylist, I curated and styled clothing and accessories for themed photoshoots featured in the magazine. This experience allowed me to open-up creatively while collaborating with my team to create a look that encapsulated all of our unique styles into one cohesive look.
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As a communications coordinator, I worked with local businesses to organize percentage nights, securing funding for photoshoots and other magazine expenses. Additionally, I helped coordinate guest speakers for our weekly meetings, enhancing my communication skills through direct engagement with professionals in the fashion industry.
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UGA Student Merchandising Association
The Student Merchandising Association at the University of Georgia is a student-run organization that is dedicated to preparing its members for the fashion industry. With hands-on opportunities styling, public relations, and business affairs, SMA gives its members a well-rounded and thorough education of the industry. This year, I serve on the business relations committee, collaborating in overseeing the venue arrangements and logistical planning for the 2025 Fashion Show as well as securing speakers for weekly meetings and working with local businesses to host percentage nights.
Georgia Hi-Lo Trail
The Georgia Hi-Lo Trail launched in 2019 after the founder, Mary Charles Howard, was frustrated with the lack of safe cycling grounds in her hometown, Sandersville, Georgia. Inspired by Athens’ Firefly Trail, she decided to expand this originally 39-mile trail another 200 miles with the Georgia Hi-Lo Trail, ending in Savannah.
Mary Charles reached out to me about collaborating with her to design new t-shirts to promote the trail and I was immediately interested. I was in charge of conducting research in order to identify the best quality and cost-effective shirt brand while also comparing the efficiency of on-site printing methods for our tabling events. We met and communicated quite frequently to solidify the design concept, and I eventually got the opportunity to contribute to table set-up and visual merchandising at races.
