ARTISTRY
80. Dynamics
When it comes to dance, the space that contains
it can be considered a blank canvas, while the
dancer who moves through it is like a brush. Each
movement is similar to a brush stroke of energy
across it. Keeping that in mind, a designer can
virtually paint movement if he considers how
his garments will become an extension of each
gesture the wearer will make.
The silhouette of a skirt will change dramatically
once the wearer begins to move. Will that shape
restrict movement? How flexible is the fabric,
and does it respond to the extension and con
traction of muscle groups? Does a long hanging
sleeve create the illusion of longer arms? When
the hips suddenly twist, do the yards of fabric in
a circular skirt whip around the body? Has the
sheer volume of that skirt become an extension
of the choreography? Through modern dance,
choreographer Martha Graham uses the body
of the dancer to pull the fabric of a garment into
bold, expressive shapes.
Color is a vital part of how dynamic a movement
is perceived to be. The same gesture and the
same garment might suggest completely differ
ent things in different colors. A vibrant red might
push the perception of power. Rendered in white
it might be described in softer, gentler terms.
Texture plays a big part in how sharp or soft the
movement of a garment can be. The traditional
tutu is constructed to retain its rigid form while
the longer "romantic tutu" is meant to be fluid.
The same dance is expressed differently depend
ing on which form is chosen.
Dance, like fashion, often reflects a certain
period, culture, and tradition. The designer who
understands this and also recognizes that both
are nonverbal forms of communication is able
to anticipate and incorporate movement into
his works. The designer must also take steps to
understand how much stress a garment must
endure based on how people will move in it, to
be sure that the materials and construction are
up to the job.
166 Fashion Design Essentials
Above: Classical ballet tutu
at the Boston Ballet
Right: Romantic ballet tutu at
the Boston Ballet
