Introduction to Fashion Design

Unfortunately i wasnt present during the first week as my visa took time to come.

there would be more updates the following weeks....

WEEK 2

BASIC SHIRT DETAILINGS RESEARCH COMPILATION

We studied the minute intricacies that go into a simple shirt in my "Introduction to Fashion Design" class. Every component, from collars to cuffs, adds to the overall style and usefulness. I increased my awareness of the countless options in shirt details by compiling five different styles for every shirt component as part of our homework.

For this task, making a presentation was just as enlightening as the study. I went about the method as follows:

1. Outlining the Framework
I began by listing the essential components of the garment I want to display. I chose to concentrate on the primary shirt components—collars, pockets, cuffs, silhouettes, and plackets—because the task asked me to investigate five different styles for each aspect. This method of structuring my research guaranteed that I covered all facet of the project and provided me with a clear road map for the presentation.

2. Compiling Visual Sources
Since shirt detailing is a very visual subject, I had to compile pictures to highlight each design. I gathered crisp, excellent photos to visually depict each style using Pinterest and other sources. The pictures made the information more interesting and understandable by helping to show how different designs differed from one another.

3. Creating the Slides

Once I had my content and visuals, I moved on to creating the slides. I used the following layout:

Title Slide: A brief introduction to the assignment and its objectives.

Individual Component Slides: For each element (collars, pockets, etc.), I dedicated a slide with a description of each style alongside corresponding images.

Conclusion Slide: Summarized my learnings and highlighted the importance of shirt detailing in fashion design.

4. Maintaining a Professional and Clean Design
To keep the focus on the information, I concentrated on creating a simple, basic design. I utilized readable typefaces, sufficient spacing to prevent clutter, and a consistent color palette that complemented a polished and contemporary fashion look.

5. Practice and Improvement
Lastly, I practiced my presentation to make sure it made sense and flowed well. I also incorporated transitions to improve the content flow and improved my slides in response to peer criticism.

This study project demonstrated how these minor details add to a garment's overall look and utility by assisting me in exploring the several detailing options for a basic shirt. Every element, from the collar to the cuff, gives designers the freedom to express their creativity and help define the character and function of a shirt.

WEEK 3:

20 Photomontage Ideas

From the very start, I was tasked with researching shirt detailing and then transitioning into designing swimwear using techniques like photomontage. This blog will capture my journey, documenting every step along the way, from initial research to garment construction. I hope to not only showcase my progress but also reflect on how this process has shaped my understanding of fashion design.

In this week

, we dove into photomontage techniques for creating swimwear designs. Photomontage involves cutting and pasting images to develop initial ideas—kind of like a digital collage. This method allowed me to think creatively and experiment with proportions and details.

We had a demonstration on how to use this technique, and it immediately opened my mind to new possibilities. I started developing 20 initial swimwear designs using the figure template I found on Pinterest, adjusting each design based on my shirt detailing research from week one. Below is one of the images I’ve been working on as part of my design progression:

The combination of shirt elements with swimwear gave me an interesting mix of structure and fluidity to work with. Although challenging, I could already see potential in some of my designs.

By the third week, the focus shifted towards defining my subject matter. I needed to select a few promising designs from my initial 20 and develop them further based on a specific theme. My inspirations started coming from nature, particularly the idea of fluidity and movement in water—perfect for swimwear design.

The finalized subject matter came out to be ROSES. this was perfectly aligned with my intrest in nature and my incline towards volumous designs as shown in mmy designs.

I did initially struggle making a photomontage but i learnt it doesnt need to be perfect but it just needs to be a foundation to add more details according to your subject matter.

WEEK 4:

Progressing From Design to Concepts

As I continue this fashion design course, I find myself transitioning from basic research to more creative, hands-on design techniques. After weeks of exploring shirt details and learning photomontage, my journey now moves into developing a subject matter through mind mapping, mood boards, and refining initial swimwear designs. Here, I’ll share my process of narrowing down my ideas and moving toward final garment construction.

After gathering a variety of ideas from the photomontage process, the next phase was to choose a central theme or subject matter that would inspire my swimwear collection. I used mind mapping as a tool to explore my thoughts, connections, and influences for the design.

Creating the mind map was an exciting way to visually organize all the elements I wanted to incorporate. I started by thinking about the emotions and images I wanted my swimwear to evoke—freedom, movement, and natural forms. My subject matter became deeply connected to rose's petals, the phases of rose's life cycle, and the fluidity of nature. Here’s how the teacher explained the entire porcess that helped us understand the project better:

Through this mind mapping exercise, I could see the connections between my ideas and how they could influence the shapes, materials, and colors of my designs.

Once my subject matter was clear, the teacher explained how to create a mindmap to visually and conceptually represent the look and feel of our collection. I searched for inspiration on Pinterest, focusing on natural forms, textures, and colors that aligned with my theme.

My mindmap consistented of not just artistic but factual aspects of roses; the parts of roses, types of roses from different regions, anatomy of roses, teh transfomration it goes through in each stage of its growth, diving deeper into the textures a rose has from its soft delivcate petals through its sharp angular thorns. By understanding my subject matter through a more factual lense i could incorporate those aspects to my deisgner's vision to my collection and story telling whwich all together creates more depth to my collection.

From creating a mind map that organized my initial ideas, to selecting and developing my final designs, I’ve learned how important it is to stay true to a concept while remaining flexible in execution.

WEEK 5:

Exploring Mood Boards and Technical Drawings in Fashion Design

In fashion design, the creative journey involves more than just sketching out ideas—it’s about conceptualizing, organizing, and visually representing those ideas in a clear and cohesive way. Recently in my fashion design class, we delved into two essential tools for every designer: mood boards and technical drawings. These tools have helped me transform abstract concepts into tangible designs and improved my understanding of the design process.

A mood board is a visual tool that helps communicate the overall feeling, tone, and inspiration behind a collection or design. It combines images, textures, colors, and even words to represent the direction of the creative project. In class, we learned how important a mood board is in defining the vision for a collection.

I started by gathering inspiration from various sources, including Pinterest, magazines, and my surroundings. For my current project, I decided to focus on rose-inspired themes, drawing inspiration from the fluidity of natural textures. My mood board reflected soft pinks, delicate flowy designs, and textured fabrics like mesh and lace, paired with images of petals and voluminous blossoming of a rose.

Here’s what I learned during the process:

Defining a Color Palette: The mood board helped me narrow down my color choices, ensuring they complement each other.
Focusing on Texture and Material: Selecting images that represented different textures gave me a clearer direction on fabric choices.
Bringing Abstract Ideas to Life: The mood board helped me solidify my concept visually and made it easier to communicate my design vision.

Creating this mood board gave me a solid foundation to build on. It acted as a visual guide, reminding me of the story I wanted to tell through my designs.

Once the mood board was completed, we moved on to technical drawing. Technical drawings, also known as flats, are essential for fashion design because they offer a precise and detailed representation of how the garment will be constructed. Unlike stylized fashion sketches, technical drawings are simple, clean, and focus on the construction details of a garment.

In class, we practiced drawing different garments in a way that clearly communicates structure, seam placement, and proportions. For my swimwear project, this was particularly important as the technical drawing needed to show the intricate details of the straps, seams, and fastenings.

Here’s what I learned:

Attention to Detail: Every seam, stitch, and construction detail needs to be accurately represented in a technical drawing.
Proportion and Precision: While mood boards are all about creativity, technical drawings require precision and accuracy to ensure that the design can be properly constructed.
Communication with the Production Team: Technical drawings are used by manufacturers to understand how a garment is made, so clarity is key.

Through this process, I realized how much effort goes into ensuring that every part of the garment is communicated effectively. The technical drawings gave me a new appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every piece of clothing.

The past few weeks have taught me the importance of balancing creativity with practicality. The mood board allowed me to express the artistic side of my designs, while the technical drawing ensured that my ideas could actually be brought to life. Together, these tools helped me bridge the gap between concept and construction.

As I continue to refine my skills, I’m excited to see how these elements will play a role in my future projects. Mood boards will always serve as the heart of my design inspiration, while technical drawings will be the map that guides the realization of those ideas.

WEEK 6:

This week has been a whirlwind of creativity, challenges, and invaluable learning experiences. From finalizing my two looks for the final project to fabric sourcing, every step brought new insights into the process of design and execution. Here is a breakdown of my Week 6 journey:

Struggling with Technical Drawings

One of the biggest challenges I faced this week was understanding and executing the technical drawings. Translating my design ideas into precise, balanced technical sketches seemed daunting at first. I struggled to capture the proportions and align the elements cohesively. My first few attempts were far from perfect, with misplaced panels and unbalanced structures.

After several trials and some much-needed guidance from my lecturer, I finally began to understand the importance of balancing the design elements. By revisiting the principles of design, such as repetition, balance, and proportion, I managed to create technical drawings that were both accurate and visually appealing. This process taught me patience and the significance of refining every detail to achieve the desired outcome.

Fabric Hunting Adventures

Another highlight of the week was going fabric hunting with my friends. We explored several new places, discovering hidden gems for fabric sourcing. This experience was an eye-opener as I learned about different types of fabrics and the nuances of selecting the right material for a project.

The task of choosing white fabric was particularly fascinating. Who would have thought there could be so many variations in white? From stark, crisp whites to softer, warmer tones, each type brought a unique texture and feel. I also gained a deeper understanding of fabric weights, drapes, and finishes, which will be crucial for executing my final garments.

Finalizing Two Looks

After weeks of ideation and sketching, finalizing my two looks for the final project was both thrilling and rewarding. These designs are deeply inspired by my subject matter and reflect the conceptual story I want to convey. Translating these ideas into front and back view illustrations brought my vision to life.

Key Takeaways

Technical Drawing Mastery: Despite the initial struggles, I now feel more confident in creating detailed technical drawings that effectively communicate my designs.
Fabric Knowledge: Exploring new sourcing locations and understanding the various types of fabrics has enriched my knowledge as a designer.
Teamwork and Exploration: Sharing this journey with friends made the experience more enjoyable and collaborative.

As the week comes to a close, I feel a sense of accomplishment. The challenges I faced pushed me to grow and learn, setting the stage for the next phase of this exciting journey. Week 6 has been a testament to the power of perseverance and the joy of discovery in the world of fashion design.

WEEK 7:

This week marked an exciting and pivotal stage in our semester—the finalization and initial execution of our final project tasks. Reflecting on Week 7, I’ll walk you through the challenges, learning experiences, and triumphs of this intensive yet rewarding journey.

Progress Overview:

1. Portfolio Compilation: We continued refining our portfolios, ensuring all research, technical drawings, and conceptual inspirations were systematically documented. I worked extensively on my mood board, arranging images to reflect my subject matter inspiration seamlessly. Collaborating with peers and receiving feedback from the instructor helped me identify gaps and elevate my composition’s overall aesthetic.

2. Technical Drawing Development: After finalizing my two looks last week, translating them into precise technical drawings remained a challenge. Balancing the intricate details of my design elements, such as paneling and seam lines, required significant focus. With practice and the instructor’s guidance, I managed to create well-proportioned technical sketches, which became the blueprint for my upcoming pattern drafting.

3. Fabric Sourcing: Fabric hunting became a new adventure this week. Armed with my finalized designs, I explored several textile stores with my friends, learning about various fabric types, their textures, and potential uses. For my white collection, I aimed to find fabrics that varied subtly in shades of white—from pure white to off-white—to add depth to the collection while maintaining cohesion. This hands-on experience expanded my understanding of fabric properties and their application in design.

4. Pattern Drafting: During Ms. Melina’s class, we embarked on drafting the patterns for Look 1. While the process initially seemed overwhelming—especially ensuring the alignment of all panels—the step-by-step guidance helped me gain confidence. Mistakes, such as misaligned darts, taught me the importance of precision and double-checking measurements.

5. Exploration and Experimentation: Experimenting with fabric manipulations was another highlight of the week. I tested various techniques to bring texture and uniqueness to my collection, such as pleating and layering. Documenting these explorations was a key aspect, as it tied back to showcasing the evolution of my project in my e-blog.

Lessons Learned:

Adaptability: Adjusting my designs to better suit the fabric’s properties was a significant learning curve. Not all envisioned details could be executed with the chosen materials, prompting creative problem-solving.
Teamwork: Fabric sourcing and brainstorming with classmates reinforced the value of collaboration and diverse perspectives.
Precision: The technical drawing and pattern drafting exercises underscored the importance of accuracy in translating design concepts into tangible outputs.

This week taught me the importance of balancing creativity with practicality. From sourcing fabrics to drafting patterns, each step brought its own challenges but also contributed to a deeper understanding of the fashion design process. My favorite part of the week was fabric hunting, where I discovered new stores and gained insight into the subtle differences in textiles—a skill I know will serve me well in the future.

Looking ahead, I am eager to begin the construction phase of my garments, bringing my designs to life while continuing to refine my techniques. Week 7 was a reminder of why I chose fashion design: the blend of art, precision, and storytelling.

WEEK 8:

This week was designated as an independent earning week, and I chose to fully immerse myself in studio work. The focus of my time was on improving my patterns and pushing the boundaries of creativity by exploring and experimenting with new pattern ideas.

Recently, I invested in a fascinating fashion book that delves deeply into advanced pattern-making techniques. This book served as a source of inspiration and guidance throughout my independent practice. By analyzing the innovative designs and methods presented in the book, I began to view patterns not just as technical blueprints but as an artistic medium to express concepts and ideas.

I dedicated my time to applying these newfound perspectives to my own designs. I experimented with unconventional cuts and shapes, iterating on ideas to see how they could be translated into wearable garments. The process required a lot of trial and error, but each mistake brought a new lesson about pattern construction and problem-solving.

This self-directed exploration allowed me to think independently about my patterns and refine my understanding of garment construction. I found that stepping away from the structured guidance of classwork and relying on my own initiative not only boosted my confidence but also enhanced my skills significantly.

By the end of the week, I had developed a few new patterns that I am excited to incorporate into my final project. This experience emphasized the value of taking the time to experiment and learn independently, and it has enriched my overall approach to design.

WEEK 9:

This week marked a pivotal point in our journey as we transitioned from conceptualizing designs to creating technical drawings and master patterns for our final projects. Here’s a snapshot of my Week 9 experience:

Speeding Up Sketch Developments

The week began with a race against time to complete my 15 sketches and finalize my two looks. Initially, narrowing down my ideas felt overwhelming, as every design had potential. However, after discussing with my lecturer and receiving valuable feedback, I managed to identify two looks that best represented my concept.

Refining Technical Drawings

Once my two final looks were selected, the next step was creating detailed technical drawings. This process required precision and an eye for detail, as every line, panel, and element needed to be accurately depicted. I found myself constantly revisiting my designs, ensuring they aligned with the conceptual story I had envisioned. By focusing on balance, proportion, and styling elements, I successfully completed front and back view technical drawings for both looks. These included detailed illustrations of accessories, footwear, and headgear to give a complete visual representation of the final designs.

Pattern Drafting: The Beginning of Construction

With the technical drawings finalized, we moved on to pattern drafting for Look 1. This was an exciting yet challenging task. Translating a flat technical drawing into a three-dimensional pattern required analytical thinking and a thorough understanding of garment construction.

I worked closely with my lecturer to determine which panels would use plain fabrics and which would feature textured fabrications based on my finalized texture sampling experiments. This decision-making process taught me the importance of balancing functionality with aesthetics in design.

Fabric Exploration

Choosing the right fabrics was another highlight of the week. Based on my earlier texture sampling and proposed designs, I carefully analyzed which fabrics would best suit each panel of my Look 1. This involved considering factors such as texture, weight, and drape to ensure the final garment would reflect my concept while being wearable and practical.

Key Takeaways

Time Management: Completing 15 sketches and finalizing two looks required efficient time management and decision-making.
Attention to Detail: Technical drawings demanded precision and a clear understanding of design elements.
Collaboration: Working with my lecturer provided invaluable insights and guidance throughout the process.
Fabric Knowledge: Experimenting with textured and plain fabrics reinforced the importance of material selection in garment construction.

Week 9 has been an enriching journey filled with creativity, hard work, and learning. Each step brought me closer to transforming my ideas into tangible garments, and I’m excited to see how the final pieces will come together in the weeks ahead.

WEEK 10:

This week was transformative as we moved further into the construction phase of our final projects. Here is my Week 10 experience:

Bringing Ideas to Life: Technical Drawing Refinements

This week was all about perfection. With my two finalized looks, I revisited my technical drawings to ensure every detail aligned with the practicalities of garment construction. Every panel, seam, and design line underwent scrutiny. I refined accessory placements and made adjustments based on the balance and proportion of my designs. These changes not only improved the aesthetic value of my looks but also ensured functional accuracy for the pattern-drafting stage.

Master Pattern Drafting for Look 1

Creating the master pattern for Look 1 was the highlight of this week. This process was both analytical and creative, requiring me to interpret my two-dimensional technical drawings into three-dimensional patterns. Translating ideas into patterns that fit perfectly and align with my vision was a challenging yet satisfying task.

While working on the master pattern, I encountered several roadblocks, such as translating intricate details into practical design elements. With guidance from my lecturer, I learned to adapt and make decisions that balanced creativity with technical feasibility. This step reinforced the importance of precision and a thorough understanding of garment construction.

Fabric Decision Finalization

Building on my earlier fabric research, this week I made definitive choices for Look 1. Selecting fabrics involved considering not only aesthetic appeal but also practicality. I balanced textured fabrics with plain ones to create visual interest while ensuring wearability. Discussions with my lecturer helped clarify which fabrics would best support my design concept and construction needs. This stage deepened my appreciation for how fabric choice can elevate a garment’s overall look and feel.

Lessons Learned

Precision is Key: Master patterns require meticulous attention to detail, as every measurement impacts the final garment’s fit and appearance.

Adaptability: Challenges in pattern drafting taught me to think critically and adapt my designs when necessary without compromising the core concept.

Collaborative Learning: Working closely with my lecturer provided invaluable insights and fostered a deeper understanding of the technical aspects of design.

Material Understanding: Finalizing fabrics emphasized the interplay between design and material, highlighting how fabric selection can transform a concept into a tangible reality.

Moving Forward

Week 10 marked a significant step in transitioning from design to construction. It was a week filled with learning, problem-solving, and hands-on experience. As I look ahead, I am excited to see my designs take shape and bring my creative vision to life. Each task completed this week has brought me closer to achieving my final goal, and I’m eager to continue this journey in the coming weeks.

WEEK 11:

This week marked the thrilling transition from drafting patterns to beginning garment construction for my two finalized looks. With only three weeks left to sew and complete both garments, the sense of urgency and excitement was palpable.

Starting with a Test Fit

Before diving into the actual construction, I began by creating test fits in calico for both garments. This step was crucial as my models' sizes varied slightly outside the standard size 12 range. The test fit allowed me to ensure that both garments would fit perfectly on their respective models, highlighting areas that needed adjustments and providing a clearer understanding of how the final garments would take shape. This process not only helped refine the fit but also boosted my confidence moving forward.

Garment Construction: From Pattern to Fabric

With the patterns finalized and tested, I moved on to constructing Look 1 and Look 2. This phase involved meticulously applying the texture manipulations that had been carefully planned during the design process. Ensuring these manipulations aligned with my approved designs was both challenging and rewarding. I consulted closely with Ms. Melina to confirm each step, ensuring every detail met the envisioned standard.

Texture Manipulation: Adding Personality to the Garments

Texture manipulation was a key element of my designs, and this week, I dedicated significant time to this aspect. Working with various textures and compositions, I experimented and refined the placement to achieve the desired aesthetic. Collaborating with my lecturer provided valuable feedback and guidance, ensuring the final garments would look cohesive and striking.

Key Takeaways

Fit Matters: Starting with a calico test fit was essential in addressing fit issues and accommodating model size variations.
Time Management: Balancing garment construction and portfolio updates required strategic planning.
Collaboration: Regular consultations with Ms. Melina and classmates provided valuable insights and support.
Attention to Detail: Texture manipulation and garment assembly demanded precision and patience.

Week 11 was an intense yet rewarding phase in transforming my designs into reality. Each challenge brought new learning opportunities, bringing me closer to completing my final garments and achieving the vision I had set out to create.

WEEK 12:

This week marked a significant milestone as I continued to work on the construction of both Look 1 and Look 2. With the foundation laid in previous weeks, I focused on refining my garments, ensuring they aligned with my conceptual vision and fit my models perfectly.

Finalizing the Calico Test Fit

I began this week by completing the calico test fit for both garments. This process was critical, as my models’ sizes varied slightly from the standard size 12. I had my models come in for fittings to assess the garments’ fit. Sir JR provided valuable insights into how I could improve the overall aesthetic, ensuring each piece captured the intended essence of my design. Ms. Melina guided me in making adjustments, particularly in Look 2, where the dart sizes needed to be refined for a cleaner and more flattering fit.

Look 1 Adjustments: Learning Through Fitting

For Look 1, the focus was on enhancing comfort and proportion. After reviewing the fit on my model, I decided to lower the shoulder seam to create a more relaxed silhouette. This adjustment immediately improved the garment's aesthetic, giving it a softer and more intentional look. Additionally, I learned something entirely new: the importance of sleeve length in achieving ideal proportions. By shortening the sleeves to better suit my model's arms, the overall balance of the garment improved significantly.

Look 2 Progress: From Patterns to Panels

Having finalized the pattern drafting for Look 2, I traced the patterns, pinned them on the dummy, and consulted Ms. Melina regarding the fabric and texture composition. With her guidance, I finalized the placement of textured and plain fabric panels, ensuring the design was cohesive and impactful. Once the adjustments were made, I proceeded to cut the actual fabric and began assembling the garment, incorporating the texture manipulations I had planned.

Styling and Conceptual Cohesion

In preparation for final presentations, I also began planning the styling for both looks. This included head-to-toe elements such as accessories and footwear, ensuring they aligned with the conceptual story behind my designs. Styling is an extension of the garments, and I wanted every detail to reflect the narrative I’ve been building throughout this process.

Week 12: Refining the Vision - From Calico to Final Garment Construction

Finalizing the Calico Test Fit

Look 1 Adjustments: Learning Through Fitting

Look 2 Progress: From Patterns to Panels

Styling and Conceptual Cohesion

Key Takeaways:

Fitting Is Key: The calico test fit revealed areas for improvement that I hadn’t considered, such as sleeve length and shoulder seam positioning.
Teamwork: Collaborating with my instructors, Sir JR and Ms. Melina, highlighted the importance of seeking feedback and being open to changes.
Styling Matters: Conceptual styling is as crucial as the garment itself in conveying a cohesive vision.

As I continue into the final stages of this project, I feel more confident and excited to see how both looks come together in their entirety.

WEEK 13:

This week marked a critical phase as I transitioned from test fits to working with actual fabrics, striving to achieve a tailored and polished look for both Look 1 and Look 2.

Cutting the Actual Fabric
With the calico test fits finalized and adjustments made, I began cutting the actual fabric for both looks. This step felt momentous as I knew any errors at this stage could be challenging to rectify. I approached the task with precision, ensuring the pieces were cut accurately to maintain the tailored aesthetic I envisioned.

Refinement Techniques: French Seams and Bias Tape Finishing

To achieve a refined and professional look inside and out, I incorporated French seams and bias tape finishing into both garments. These techniques were chosen for their clean, polished appearance and suitability for high-end fashion construction. While the French seams added durability and elegance to the garment, the bias tape finishing provided a neat edge to raw seams.

However, executing bias tape finishing presented its own set of challenges:

Maintaining Consistent Width: Ensuring the bias tape remained even throughout was more difficult than anticipated, especially on curved edges.
Puckering on Curves: Achieving a smooth finish around curves without puckering required meticulous attention.
Precision in Stitching: The visible topstitching had to be perfectly aligned, demanding significant patience and control.

Despite the mistakes I made initially, these challenges helped me refine my skills. With each error, I learned to adjust my technique, such as pre-ironing the bias tape and using more pins to secure it in place before stitching.

Beading Experimentation

In addition to the usual construction challenges, I decided to attempt beading this week. I thought it would add a touch of glamour and texture to the designs. However, I quickly encountered common struggles with hand-stitching beads, including:

Uneven Stitching: It was hard to keep the beads aligned properly and consistently spaced.
Thread Tension Issues: Maintaining consistent tension on the thread was tricky, resulting in beads that shifted or became loose.
Choosing the Right Needle: I initially struggled with the right type of needle to use, which affected the overall execution.

Looking back, I realized I should have conducted proper research on how to bead effectively and the materials required for it before starting. Thankfully, a friend stepped in and showed me the correct needle to use, which helped tremendously. This was a valuable learning experience in understanding the importance of preparation and proper tools for such delicate tasks.

Look 1 and Look 2 Progress
Look 1: The refined adjustments from the calico test fit, such as lowering the shoulder seam and altering the sleeve length, translated beautifully to the actual fabric. The incorporation of French seams elevated the garment, ensuring it looked as sophisticated on the inside as on the outside.
Look 2: After resolving the dart sizing issues during the calico phase, the actual fabric version fit the model much better. The texture manipulation panels were carefully incorporated, adding depth and dimension to the design.

Styling Continuation
As the garments came closer to completion, I continued refining the styling for both looks. Accessories, hair, and makeup concepts were aligned with the overarching narrative of the collection, ensuring a cohesive presentation.

This week, I faced numerous challenges, particularly with bias tape finishing and beading. The initial attempts were riddled with uneven stitching, puckering, and improper tools for beading. But by experimenting with techniques, seeking feedback from instructors, and learning from mistakes, I was able to improve. I also learned the importance of patience and precision in garment construction, especially when working with delicate fabrics and intricate details.

Mistakes like cutting bias tape too short, stitching too close to the edge, or using the wrong beading needle taught me to double-check every step. These setbacks, while frustrating, ultimately enhanced my problem-solving skills and attention to detail.

Key Takeaways:

Precision is critical in achieving a tailored look.
Refinement techniques like French seams and bias tape finishing elevate the garment's overall quality but require practice and patience.
Beading requires proper research and the right materials to execute effectively.
Mistakes are an essential part of the learning process, offering invaluable lessons in craftsmanship and problem-solving.

With the final garments nearing completion, I am eager to see how the pieces come together and how they will be received during the final presentation.

WEEK 14:

Although our class fell on Christmas Eve, which meant no formal sessions, I spent the week in the studio focusing on finishing both Look 1 and Look 2. This week was all about completing the cutting, sewing, and finishing stages for both looks, ensuring that everything came together just in time for the final presentation.

Garment Construction for Look 1 & Look 2
I dedicated the entire week to the construction of both looks, from the drafting and cutting to sewing and fabric finishing. With Look 1, I was particularly focused on the fabric manipulation element and how I could incorporate the beading effect I had experimented with earlier. For Look 1, I created a large, bold rose from fabric as a key design feature. To make it stand out, I used a 3-meter-long piece of fabric with a 40 cm width. I beaded the fabric first, then gathered it and hand-stitched each section of the gathered fabric as I rolled it up, resulting in a striking, dimensional rose. The beading effect added extra texture, and I was pleased with the finished result.

For Look 2, I took a different approach with the roses. Instead of one large rose, I created three smaller ones. I started with rectangles of fabric, folding triangles on each side to form the petals. After securing the petals with a stay stitch, I gathered them by hand and stitched each section as I rolled it up. The finished roses had a wild, natural look, which was exactly what I envisioned for this design. These smaller roses gave the garment a more organic, free-flowing aesthetic compared to the bold, structured rose in Look 1.

Fabric Manipulation
In both looks, fabric manipulation played a crucial role in adding depth and texture. For Look 1, the large rose became the focal point of the garment, emphasizing the importance of intricate detailing and handcrafting. For Look 2, the three smaller roses added a more playful, whimsical touch, fitting the wild, untamed theme of the design.

Styling & Final Presentation Preparation
Along with finishing the construction of both looks, I started planning the styling for the final presentation. I aimed for a cohesive narrative that aligned with my conceptual inspiration. This included ideas for accessories, hair, and makeup, with a focus on keeping it simple yet striking. I envisioned smokey eyes and a clean lower bun with a hat to complement the bold and delicate elements of both garments.

Final Steps
While the technical aspects of garment construction were challenging, I felt a sense of accomplishment seeing everything come together. The beading, fabric manipulation, and final touches all added a personal, crafted feel to the collection. Now, with everything nearly complete, I’m looking forward to presenting the final garments and seeing how they will be received.

WEEK 14: Final Looks:

As the final stitches and embellishments of my collection, "Dances of Roses," come to completion, I find myself reflecting on this creative and transformative journey. The collection is a manifestation of months of learning, experimentation, and a deep dive into the art of fashion design. Each piece has a story to tell, and every decision—from fabric manipulation to intricate beading—has been a lesson in patience, precision, and artistry.

What I Have Learned

1. Mastery of Techniques

Throughout this process, I have refined several foundational and advanced skills:

French Seams and Bias Tape Finishing: These techniques have become second nature, allowing me to create clean and professional finishes that elevate the overall look of my designs.
Beading: From the delicate placement of each bead to creating cohesive patterns, I have mastered the art of embellishment to bring a sense of luxury and movement to my designs.
Fabric Manipulation: The roses in my designs are a testament to countless hours spent perfecting pleating, folding, and draping techniques. Each rose carries the essence of the collection, symbolizing beauty, elegance, and strength.
Structural Design: Balancing voluminous silhouettes with fitted elements was a challenging yet rewarding aspect. The juxtaposition creates dynamic movement and reflects the theme of dance in my collection.

2. Problem-Solving and Adaptability

Not everything went as planned, and some of the most valuable lessons came from troubleshooting unexpected challenges. Whether it was reworking a pattern to ensure proper fit or finding creative solutions for fabric limitations, I learned to embrace flexibility and think critically under pressure.

3. Storytelling Through Fashion

This collection was not just about creating garments; it was about conveying an emotion and narrative. The "Dances of Roses" encapsulates the interplay of grace and resilience, captured through flowing fabrics, bold embellishments, and intricate details.

What I Would Improve

Reflecting on this journey also highlights areas for growth and experimentation:

1. Advanced Fabric Technologies

Exploring innovative fabrics, such as biodegradable textiles or those with thermochromatic properties, could add an exciting layer of storytelling. Imagine roses that change color based on temperature or lighting conditions—bringing the collection to life in a dynamic and interactive way.

2. Enhancing Wearability

While the collection leans toward artistry and statement pieces, future iterations could focus on integrating practicality without compromising design integrity. Adjustable elements, modular designs, or multi-purpose garments could cater to a wider audience.

3. Digital Embroidery and Laser Cutting

Incorporating digital tools would allow for more precise and intricate detailing. Laser-cut petals or digitally embroidered motifs could complement the hand-crafted elements, adding a modern twist to traditional techniques.

4. Collaborative Inputs

Working alongside textile artists or partnering with dance choreographers could deepen the conceptual connection between the collection and its theme. This collaboration could inspire new shapes, movements, and visual textures.

Final Thoughts

The "Dances of Roses" collection is more than a milestone; it is a stepping stone to the designer I aspire to become. This journey has reinforced my passion for craftsmanship and storytelling through fashion. It has taught me the value of perseverance, attention to detail, and the importance of staying true to a vision.

As I prepare to showcase this collection, I do so with pride in what I have accomplished and excitement for the possibilities that lie ahead. Fashion is an ever-evolving art form, and I am eager to continue exploring, experimenting, and growing in this incredible journey.

To my roses, both on the garments and within my spirit—thank you for dancing with m