Cognitive Couture: An Introduction to Fashion and Human Behavior
This course explores the intersection of psychology and fashion, offering a practical understanding of how science informs style to enhance wellbeing. Using the SUITS™ framework—developed by Yasmina Nessim, founder of pstyled, the world’s first fashion psychology company—the program examines how different aspects of wellness connect to fashion and styling tools. Each seminar blends theory, research, and real client case studies, moving from conceptual foundations to hands-on exercises, discussions, and group work. Students conclude each unit by reflecting on how to apply fashion psychology to their own lives, translating research into personal practice.
Learning Outcomes
- Develop historical awareness and explore the evolution of fashion and fashion psychology
- Develop a holistic understanding of wellbeing across physical, emotional, social and cognitive dimensions, recognizing its importance in personal and societal fulfillment
- Analyze the psychological impact of clothing choices on emotional wellbeing, discerning how attire influences mood regulation, emotional expression, self-esteem and confidence
- Evaluate how clothing influences goal attainment and self-efficacy, fostering a proactive mindset for personal growth
- Understand the impact of clothing on physical wellbeing and body image, cultivating positive self-esteem and self-care practices
- Apply fashion psychology principles to craft individualized wellbeing plans, integrating strategies for resilience and life satisfaction
Duration and Location
- January 25 - 29, 2026
- Sessions will run daily from 9 am to 4 pm
- AUC New Cairo campus
- Fridays and Saturdays off
- Holidays are compensated for with extra hours
Fees
- EGP 4,000 (price including materials needed)
- The following discounts are offered:
- 10% discount for siblings
- 10% discount for AUC faculty and staff
- 15% discount for AUC alumni
Who Can Apply?
Students aged 16+.
Requirements
Basic understanding of computers
Certification
All the bootcamp participants will receive a certificate of participation from AUC.
Transportation
The AUC bus service is available for an extra fee. Details on the schedule will be shared before the program's start date.
Accommodation
Accommodation is offered at the University residences in case needed.
About the Instructor
Yasmina Nessim
Yasmina Nessim is the first and only fashion psychologist in the realm of business in the world. After completing her business degrees at King’s College and Imperial College in London, she went on to pursue her second master’s degree in applied psychology in fashion at the London College of Fashion. She dedicated years to studying the relationship between fashion and the human psyche, with a focus on the impact that clothing has on mood, performance levels, and self-expression.
Nessim went on to work at Hermès Paris, Diane Von Furstenburg, and Selfridges in London, amongst other start-ups that focus on style taxonomy and fashion AI. In 2018, Nessim made the executive decision to move back to Cairo, Egypt, to start her fashion psychology business: “pstyled.”
“Pstyled” is the only business in the world that uses fashion psychology to help maximize well-being. It curates outfits that help its clients feel better, work harder, and express themselves in ways that are simple and effective. “pstyled” is, quite simply, fashion therapy.
Nessim is now single-handedly managing over 100 clients around the world. She is also handling campaigns dedicated to raising awareness on fashion psychology and the benefits of using clothing to better one’s mental health. Earlier this year, Nessim's chapter on "The Rise of Female Empowerment in Egypt: The Fashion Psychology Behind Their Attire and Armor" was published in the Fashion Marketing in Emerging Economies Book.
AUC Refund Policy
A 100% refund of the program fees will be offered in the following cases. If reported at least three weeks before the program's start date.
- Course cancellation
- Medical withdrawal
- Visa denial