I NVENTO RY
23. Ta ming Te xtiles
Textiles are a very tangible source of inspiration.
Much like the marble that informs the sculp
tor what it wants to become, fabric will suggest
what shapes and types of manipulation will
transform it into a work of art.
The same pattern for a garment will assume
uniquely different characteristics, depending on
whether it is made of silk chiffon, ribbed knit,
ripstop nylon, Lycra, taffeta, or wool felt. The de
signer can design with fabrics based on how they
coordinate and contrast with each other. Weight,
body, and weave will provide further direction.
Color, pattern, and texture also deliver a whole
set of additional choices.
A designer can take ideas for a collection into
new territory by switching fabrics. Substituting
fabrics like denim for taffeta, chiffon for oxford
cloth, leather for linen, and lace for tweed is one
way to trigger unpredictable innovations. Block
ing with color, pattern, and texture is another
way to shake things up. Combine these methods
with techniques usually reserved for different
fabrics, and the design choices multiply. Apply
a top-stitched flat-felled seam, commonly found
on denim, to silk organdy and it brings together
two seemingly unrelated areas of fashion, creat
ing something fresh and unexpected.
52 Fashion Design Essentials
Right: Medium body: Sara
Campbell floral jacquard skirt
Below: Full body: Viktor &
Rolf silver dipped satin skirt
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