TECHNIQUE
65. The Reveal
Director Alfred Hitchcock integrated a personal
cameo appearance into his films. Caricaturist
AI Hirschfeld incorporated Nina, his daughter's
name, into most of his drawings. Both became
almost as famous for these veiled gifts as for
the fine work they produced. Software, music,
books, art, and television shows are just a few of
the media where "Easter eggs" can be hidden.
This long-standing tradition of weaving in special
hidden surprises can also be found in fashion,
with discovery becoming as much a part of the
experience as the actual clothing.
There are some traditional target areas for the
placement of a hidden treat. Classic shirts might
hide them on the underside of the collar, the col
lar stand, or the inside cuff. Some sort of decora
tive detail might also be plac ed on the shirttail.
Addressing the part of the tradition that requires
"something blue," a bridal gown can be designed
to include tiny blue bows sewn into the lining.
A simple summer dress can make good use of a
contrasting fabric to face the neckline, armhole,
or hem of the garment, hinting at something
more playful. The ambiguously playful message
"Lucky Yo u" can be found on a label placed on
the inside zipper of Lucky Brand jeans.
Private moments and public displays of design
can be carefully crafted into any garment. Letting
your hand sink into a pocket lined with the soft
est fleece is a personal present from the designer
to the wearer. A flashy lining in an otherwise
conservative suit allo ws the user to choose
when, where, and to whom he wishes to expose
his wilder side to a real "Ta-da!" moment.
136 Fashion Design Essentials
Right: Jeff Lahens for ECC
Life & Style; undercollar
detail
Middle: Arnold Scaasi dress
with matching coat lining
Below: Sara Marhamo cuff
lining detail
