Understanding the relationship between fabric and how it behaves on the human body is crucial to my work as a fashion designer. I enjoy working with fabrics of different weights and textures as they drape differently on the body and in the final sewn garment. I also like to explore cuts to arrive at visually appealing silhouettes.
One of the most exciting ways to learn about fabrics and the body is to study anti-fit theory. In this approach, a piece of fabric is manipulated in a way that feels 'unnatural' to the 3D form of the human body.
The image below demonstrates how I took a rectangular piece of fabric, introduced armholes (off the traditional shoulder line), and sewed the sides. The mis-alligned armholes force the fabric to be contorted. To be able to sew the sides I had to add 2" box pleats to match the side seams. The top has a wonderfully draped aspect to it - it takes the eyes all around the garment, from top to bottom.
One of the most exciting ways to learn about fabrics and the body is to study anti-fit theory. In this approach, a piece of fabric is manipulated in a way that feels 'unnatural' to the 3D form of the human body.
The image below demonstrates how I took a rectangular piece of fabric, introduced armholes (off the traditional shoulder line), and sewed the sides. The mis-alligned armholes force the fabric to be contorted. To be able to sew the sides I had to add 2" box pleats to match the side seams. The top has a wonderfully draped aspect to it - it takes the eyes all around the garment, from top to bottom.
I am planning on experimenting with the anti-fit theory further. It offers a great variety of options on how to manipulate fabric and achieve innovative silhouettes.
What do you think of the top? Would you wear it? If so, why or why not? Let me know!
What do you think of the top? Would you wear it? If so, why or why not? Let me know!