There are some rules that all professional designers should follow to make the design process easier in any type of art. These are known as the elements and principles of design. Some basic design has a favourable effect on the designer’s performance and is therefore a crucial instrument for gaining a competitive edge in the fashion design sector.
The most fundamental element in the planning of a piece of art is the basic design. The arranging of the elements in accordance with design principles forms the foundation of every artistic work’s structure. Design elements and principles are rules that all professional designers follow, whether consciously or unconsciously, in every artistic medium. Therefore, it is crucial to emphasise that without design elements and principles, no fashion design is ever complete. Fashion is the definition of beauty as it is currently seen by a certain population segment, and fashion design is the process of developing new trends in apparel, hats, and shoes. We’ll talk about elements of design below.
The fundamental components or characteristics that are used in the design process are known as design elements. Shape or silhouette, line, colour, and texture are the four fundamental design components or aspects utilised in clothing.
Shape or Silhouette
The entire garment’s outline is referred to as a “silhouette. This is the aspect of the clothing that is most immediately noticeable. Before any other elements are observed, it makes the first impression. Silhouette refers to the shape created by the exterior lines of clothes. First impressions are based on what people observe from a distance. Different fashion silhouettes emerge throughout each decade as trends change, either enhancing the contours of the body or exaggerating them to draw attention to a certain area of the body.
Line
A line describes the boundary or outline of a garment as well as the style line that delineates the interior of a garment. If applied correctly, the line can produce illusions. The most basic and significant design element is the line. There is length and width in every line. In essence, clothing styles are created using straight and curved lines. An unbroken line might be horizontal, vertical, or diagonal. It is critical to understand that lines create illusions or pictures. A garment’s design line directs the viewer’s gaze in a particular way. These lines can be skilfully used to enhance body proportions and contours. A garment’s cut and style lines are related to its line and its structure. More emphasis is placed on the body as the lines become more intricate. The figure appears larger than it actually is due to the large, bold lines. For instance, a decorative rolled collar framing a lovely face may detract attention from a hip that is too bulky.
Colour
When viewed from a distance, colour has the most aesthetic impact; it is the main factor that influences the garment’s overall style. Regarding flattering colours, there are no set guidelines. Colors have individual meanings, so a person’s choice will be influenced by their personal preferences for particular hues. If one learns how to employ them effectively, one can wear any colour. People’s feelings can be influenced by and reflected in colour. Warm hues like vivid red, orange, and purple are lively and provocative colours that can induce a sense of cheerfulness. Blues, greens, and white, which are soft colours, imply peace and coolness. The colours black and grey are melancholy.
Texture
The surface quality and distinctive structure of a substance are both referred to as its texture. Texture refers to the perceived characteristics of a surface, whether it is genuine or artificial. The texture of a fabric attracts both the eyes and the senses of touch. In some cases, the weave’s design influences the texture, demonstrating the intimate relationship between design and texture. A material’s quality or texture can change the colour’s tone. The perceived colour of an object may change due to a rough surface. Texture can give the wearer’s figure an illusion; for example, a satin garment’s sheen gives the impression of increased size, making bodies appear larger than they actually are. Because it also draws attention to physical flaws or abnormalities, it is inappropriate for people who are overweight. Additionally, a glossy texture shrinks a lean body. Materials with a stiff texture stand apart from the figure and widen it. They consequently distort a slim form, making it appear larger than it is.
This suggests that having a fundamental understanding of design elements influences the styles that a designer creates for various kinds of figures. When this understanding of elements of design is put to use, fashions fit extremely well and improve the wearer’s appearance. The ability to choose plain or coloured fabrics that complement other patterned or textured fabrics is facilitated by knowledge of design components. In order to assist customers in selecting appropriate styles, dressmakers must also be knowledgeable about the various body types and must be able to suggest suitable elements of design.