To obtain an idea for a design seems difficult for the beginner. The simplest way for the student to start, is to cut out of the fashion papers parts of different dresses that will accord, and that will make a good whole. Take one waist, another skirt, another sleeve, another collar, etc., all of which place on a nicely drawn figure. All parts of the costume must look as if they were meant to go together. This is good practice; but designs made this way are not original enough to be sold.
The next step in dress designing is to create a modern dress from a modern dress, using the main lines as a foundation. Fig. 1 is taken from Fig. A. See how lines 1, 2, 3 and 4 are preserved, while the design is entirely different. The belt in Fig. A suggests the piece over the shoulder in Fig. 1.
The idea for Fig. 2 was taken from a bird, a bobolink. The designs and colors of the plumage of the bird are carried out
on the dress. The bird has a white (W) back with mottled (M) feathers near the head, which come next to the yellow (Y) on the head. The breast and wings are a greyish black (B) as also is the tail. The part where the mottled feathers are may be embroidered in many colors on the dress. Follow the shape used for the wings and the shape of the white back, which extends past the wing line.
Fig 3 is taken from a rug design. See how the shape of the figure repeated so often on the rug is used for the front of the waist and for the collar. The trimming is embroidered with the design taken from the outside edge of the rug. Color schemes may also be carried out.
Be particular about making the back of a dress correspond with the front.
If you can create a design from a modern dress, you will be able (if you keep in mind the present style) to create a design from an ancient dress. Obtain books from the library on ancient costumes.
Designers use costumes from all periods in history for their work. They take their ideas from both court and peasant life. Study the costumes worn by ancients in all countries. The museums are excellent places for inspirations.
Designers pay much attention to the general outline of the whole figure (when dressed), expressed most clearly by the silhouette. Study the silhouette as it appears in different centuries.
Things around you, such as flowers, vases, etc., all may suggest designs and color schemes. Manufacturers of costume
materials like nicely drawn fashion figures dressed in their materials to advertise their goods. Select a sample of goods and design a suitable costume for that goods, rendering it in color.
Designs may be submitted in pencil only, on the lay figure, or they may be placed on the human figure. These are more pleasing, especially when they are colored. These should be rendered on water-color paper. They may be outlined in pencil, ink, or a different color from the gowns themselves. When placing flat washes of color over given surfaces, use the directions for French wash but use color instead of lamp black. Try all color schemes on separate paper.
Tempera colors are often used. These come in tubes and are applied thick like oil paints. The student may mix white paint with ordinary colors to obtain this effect, or he can use show-card colors. There are many good books on color; study them carefully.