EXPLORE

THE FACTS

About Shape:

• A shape is an area enclosed by lines that has a length and breadth.

• Space is the area within a shape or the unenclosed area surrounding a shape.

• Form is a three dimensional shape like the human body.

• There are three types of shapes:

  • Geometric- circle, oval, square, rectangle, etc.  They are regular, easy to measure and able to be constructued mathematically.  Buildings and cities are often made from geometric shapes.

  • Natural- found in nature and living things.  They are usually curved, hard to measure, not symmetrical  and random in appearance.  Plants, rocks, people and landscapes are natural shapes.

  • Non-Objective- Not natural or geometric but generally man-made or accidental shapes.  

• Shapes can be pushed, pulled, twisted, divided and rearranged to affect their visual appearance and effect on the wearer.  

• Shapes can be overlayed to make a pattern.  Large bold patterns advance, making them look bigger whilst small intricate patterns recede from the eyes, which are more flattering for on larger figures.

About Silhouette:

• A silhouette is the outline of a garment being worn.  There are seven main types of shillouettes in fashion which are tube, box, A-line, wedge, hourglass, bell and back fullness.  

• The size and shape of a garment outline is noticed from a distance.

• The eye is drawn to the garment edges, sleeve length, hem line, waist line and neck line.  These need to be designed in proportion to make an effective and flattering garment shape. 

• Throughout the years there have been many different silhouette trends.  However today due to advancements in technology, silhouettes are changing rapidly.  

Effects of shape and size in Fashion Design:

• Shapes that divide vertically appear longer and narrower.

• Shapes that divide horizontally appear shorter and wider.

• Shapes that angle away from the body adds width whilst shapes that taper inwards are slimming.

• Curved shapes emphasise roundness and the stronger the curve, the greater the effect.

• Shape and size is added to garments through seams, sleeves, waist bands, shoulder pads, skirt lengths, buttons, trims and pockets which all alter the silhouette. 

(Kennedy, 2008; Castle & Peters, 2007)