When illustrating a costume, pick out a figure which will show it to advantage; one that will tend to induce the customer to buy the costume. Three things must always be kept in mind: good style, good drawing, and good technique.

Good style is important because if a costume appears expensive, other poor points may be forgiven. If you can make a twenty-dollar suit appear like a fifty-dollar one, your services will be in demand. You will find this easier to accomplish if you select a stylish figure for your model.

Good drawing is necessary, for one can not draw a stylish figure if one does not know how to render the figure and the costume correctly.

Good technique in expressing the materials of the costume is necessary. If the costume is made of thin material the fact must be clearly brought out, and similarly if the material is heavy.

Many costumes, whether light or dark, are illustrated in outline only. If it is desired to use shading or textures, much thought should be given. Obtain a good outline, use the proper lines to denote the material, then fill in gradually with lines for shading which accord with the outline. Fill in gradually, keep the whole drawing going and do not concentrate on the shaded places.

The lines for shading should follow the form and help to mold the figure which is underneath. Lines placed close together form a shade. Keep places which come toward you light; for example, the bust, line of the leg, top of the arm, etc. There is usually a dark and a light side to every drawing, but do not make the figure so dark in one place that the general build of the whole will be lost.

Make your people " put on airs."

When illustrating a hat, decide on its most attractive side. Make the hat expensive looking, even if it is a very cheap one. Do not stint on ribbons and bows; make them full and attractive. Hats should be shaded to bring out the charm-there must be a light and a dark side. Represent the material the hat is made of whether straw, silk or velvet. Keep the technique of these, placing lines closer on the dark side but do not be mechanical. A " sketchy effect " for a hat is attractive.

Shaded back-grounds, circles and other shapes, behind hats lend enchantment.

Illustration work cannot be mastered until the student is further advanced. This lesson may be referred to from time time as the student progresses. It is well in studying to adopt the practice of first building the outlines, then inking them in and erasing the pencil lines. The shading tines may then be placed in pencil and inked in.

Illustrations are often done in a sketchy manner, many lines being used. Well connected lines are advised until the student understands the meaning of all lines.

Some houses like sketchy work-while others do not.

Fashion Design Drawing - Place Dress On Figure 1.jpg

Fashion Drawing Sections

Part-1 Part-2 Part-3