TECHNIQUE
59. Fringe and Fray
The outer edges of a silhouette need not be the
definitive finish line of a garment. Deliberately
adding some type of trim to the edge of a gar
ment will have a more organic and less rigid
quality. Fringe softens a shape by eliminating
the hard line by way of movement, and in some
instances, irregular lengths. Pompoms, tassels,
beads, and feathers have all been used to create
interesting and playful edges. Even simple eye
lash fringe on a flapper-inspired dress will dance
on the surface of the design with just the slight
est of movements. Such an animated garment is
compelling and entertaining.
A word of caution is in order for designers
who see frayed edges as an easy out from the
traditional and often challenging work of finish
ing a garment. Incorporating a raw edge into a
garment has its own set of challenges if it is to
be done well. If the grain line at that edge is not
properly aligned, it will end up fraying unevenly.
If the fabric is prone to fraying, it's imperative to
apply a stay stitch to control how far it will un
ravel. Natural frayed edges will soften and relax
even the most iconic of tailored garments, such
as a Chanel suit.
124 Fashion Design Essentials
Dress by Aida Lourenco with
frayed hem as the center
of interest
