ARTISTRY
69. More Is More
If a designer is able to synthesize a wide variety
of elements into one garment, it has the poten
tial to be a must-have, goes-with-everything
garment. This type of core wardrobe item can
be used as a fountainhead that branches out
into a broad collection. But the designer must
approach the design of each item with a greater
understanding of how it works within the whole.
This additive process should always enhance and
never overwhelm, because the overall silhouette
can easily be compromised by bulk.
Several strategies can be employed when assem
bling ensembles that involve many layers:
- Base layers should always be li ghter than those
on the next level.
- Concentrate on short over long, restricting the
application to just one area-tanks over tees or
leggings over tights, but not both.
- Control the visible proportions of each layer to
see the shape it creates, and allow the eye to
follow each layer.
- Select special items for the mix that are strong
enough to stand alone.
- Draw attention to family resemblances in simi
lar items and create the illusion of familiarity
with dissimilar ones.
- Mix day into evening and bring a little night
time glamour into the daylight.
- Coordinate looks that are comfortable and
not forced.
144 Fashion Design Essentials
Sara Marhamo design
