"When you can't do something truly useful, you tend to vent the pent up energy in something useless but available, like snappy dressing." - Lois McMaster Bujold
Who could not agree with the American science fiction author, even if only partly? There is probably something therapeutic in indulging in clothes and styling (proven by the existence of the term retail therapy). So that negates the part where Bujold calls snappy dressing useless. The process that allows you to design your own clothes, is a boon for women who eat, breathe and live fashion in all its forms. But it can also be a great hobby for those women who may not be necessarily dictated by the many terms of fashion. A way of expressing yourself and the many things that you stand for, fashion reflects your personality in the best possible manner. Learning how to design your own clothes allows you to do the above and may also open up many profitable avenues.
Designing Your Own Clothes
So how do you start to design your own clothes? Well, if you have absolutely no idea, then it may be a good idea to refer to the latest fashion trends. Look up fashion magazines and shows dedicated to fashion for what is the latest rage on the ramp. Remember though that most of these clothes may not be practical or wearable, so take inspiration but avoid the urge of copying them blindly. The ideas that you should borrow from the latest in the world of high fashion clothing are the kind of fabrics that they use, the drapes that are in style, the cuts that make the dress or attire look unique. This will allow you to create a piece of clothing that is stylish yet extremely wearable. If you are not comfortable with the latest fashion trends, then opt for classic cuts and give them a modern twist of sorts. Research those styles that you think will look good on you. Personally I have a major fascination for the hippie era and always look at giving my attire a slightly bohemian look.
Once you are familiar with the patterns and styles that are in, it is time to design your own clothes. Sit down with a sketching pad and sketch the designs that you have come up with. If you are designing clothes for yourself, then keep your individual taste in mind but in case you are designing clothes for friends, then remember to always consult them before actually sitting down to designing the outfit. You can also log on to one of the many websites that will allow you to design your own clothes online for free. Remember to believe in your designs. When you start out, you may have a problem with getting the proportions of the design right or even whether or not the cuts and line of the clothing that you have designed works. But with time, these tiny niggling doubts will be definitely put to rest. Just remember to have confidence in your creations.
Now that you know how to design your own outfit, the next step is stitching them. If you know how to sew, then great. Your problem is solved. If not, then you will need to find a seamstress who can convert your fantasy into a reality. Remember to shop for the fabrics and all other detailing materials like buttons and hooks yourself. Explain your design to the seamstress well and if possible ask her to make a miniature version before actually stitching the dress. Once your dress is made, try it on and ensure that the fitting is perfect for you. So now you know how to design your own clothes.
Designing your clothes may not always involve actually stitching clothes or making designs from scratch. Sometimes, styling an attire or reworking a clothing item may be a great way of learning how to design your own clothes. Add embellishments to plain dresses or t-shirts. Take old shirts and convert them into vest or waistcoats. Convert a skirt into a dress. If you are trying to design your own dress, then think as out-of-the-box as possible. You can rest assured that your dress will be a showstopper for sure.
The best part about being able to design your own clothes is that the process allows you to have fun. If you are talented and know how to wear and design clothes, then you never know when it may become a career opportunity for you.
