Principles of Design!

Good Design Equation

Elements

Line

Shape

Space

Texture

Color

• Principles

▫ Balance

▫ Proportion

▫ Emphasis

▫ Rhythm

▫ Harmony

+ = Good Design!!

The principles of design are artistic guidelines for using all the design elements

Fashion designers use them in designing and sewing clothing.

Balance

A design has balance when the spaces on both sides of a central line (real or imagined) appear equal.

A balanced design gives a sense of stability..

For example, what you see on the left side of this shirt visually balances what is on the right side.

Both sides of the shirt aren’t exact, but it’s in balance.

Symmetrical Balance

This shirt is an example of symmetrical balance because both sides are identical.

This types of balance usually gives a formal, tailored look.

Asymmetrical Balance

Some designers like to add an element of interest or a sense of excitement to a garment by surprising the eye with differences.

Asymmetrical clothes don’t look the same on both sides.

Asymmetrical Balance

Even when the sides of a garment are visually different, the design can still be in balance.

Design elements have varying visual “weights.”

A warm, dark color will seem heavier than a cool, light color.

Fact…

Asymmetrical has an informal look.

Garments with asymmetry are often more difficult and more costly to make because both sides must be handled differently.

Proportion

Proportion describes how separate parts of a garment relate to each other and to the whole in size.

Proportion is also called scale.

Unequal parts look best together.

Proportion

In fashion, a 3-to-5 ratio has been commonly used.

The ratio gained favor because it provides a flattering look that equates to body structure.

Emphasis

When you look at an outfit, what catches your eye first?

The focal point is known as the emphasis.

What is the focal point here?

Emphasis

Emphasis can be used to make clothing more interesting.

It can also be used to highlight your best features, or hide figure problems.

Color, line, texture, design details, trims, and accessories all emphasize.

Rhythm

When you think of rhythm you may think of a regular drumbeat in music.

In design, rhythm is visual, carrying the eye through a regular pattern produced by design elements.

Types of Rhythm

Repetition: repeating patterns

Ex) rows of stripes

Radiation: lines or patterns flow from central point

Ex) gathers in a skirt

Gradation: a pattern changes gradually, as in a change of color or size

Rhythm is important!

Good rhythm is apparent when the lines of an outfit work well together.

i.e. a curved pocket complements the curve of a jacket hem.

Poor rhythm is upsetting.

Conflicting lines, such as curved seams and striped fabric tend to break the rhythm of an outfit.

Harmony

Harmony is when the design elements complement each other.

Emphasis

Rhythm

Proportion

Harmony

Balance

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