5 TRUTHS ABOUT FASHION DESIGN
When we think of fashion design, we have certain images in our mind. However, this field still has some aspects that we may not fully understand.
1. CREATIVITY DOES NOT MEAN "INVENTION"
Every designer wants to create unique and non-replicable pieces. But "Creativity" does not mean that we must immediately create something totally new. Creativity is a process of gradually developing awareness and improving old ideas. Fashion always operates based on materials from the past as it is the foundation of innovation.
2. IDEA GENERATION TAKES MORE TIME THAN WE THINK
If you think that you can quickly draw a garment just by having a source of inspiration, that only holds true for playful or recreational purposes. Both students and designers face difficulties in meeting the criteria for creativity and practicality. Especially, revising the designs is frequently required by brands. To produce and generate revenue, standards regarding functionality and target customers have to be met.
3. NO MATTER HOW CREATIVE ONE IS, EVERYONE HAS REFERENCES
Referencing is different from "copying". All major designers have a process of researching various materials to broaden their worldview and search for inspiration. Students or high schoolers with limited experience and knowledge should learn and consume more. Having a strong personality and high creativity does not mean you can work independently without learning from others. Be smart and selective in referencing.
4. THE ACTUAL GARMENT MAY BE VERY DIFFERENT FROM THE SKETCH
One of the biggest fears for fashion design students is that they cannot create garments that resemble the sketch. However, this difference is not always negative. Some changes in the actual garment arise during the handling of materials and forming the shape. They result in unexpected, beautiful artifacts outside of the imagination. During the courses at LCDF, apart from when there are sewing mistakes or when the designs are not as expected, I usually try to fix the garments to make them better than the sketch.
5. UTILITARIAN FASHION IS NOT BORING
Many opinions suggest that utilitarian fashion includes ordinary clothing without anything special. This is incorrect, if we observe various international brands like Peter Do, Rick Owens, Dior Men, Ambush...we see that utilitarian fashion is a fertile land for development. A garment with creativity in small details allows us to see "something" but we can still wear it anywhere, which is the goal for many designers.