Introduction:
Modelling is an important part of the fashion industry, and it is often the final touch that takes a fashion design concept and makes it into a real, wearable item. This is the process of creating a 3D replica of a garment or clothing item, or a “model,” to help fashion designers create the best version of their designs. The purpose of modelling is to create a realistic representation of a design concept, to ensure that the final product fits with the designer’s vision and looks attractive to potential customers.
What does Modelling Mean?
Modelling is an important and integral part of fashion design, aiding designers in seeing how their designs look on the body. In fashion design, it refers to the practice of designing clothes based on certain physical characteristics and shapes. By using figures such as mannequins or even real people to show how the clothes should fit and what they should look like on different body types, designers can better visualise the finished product when putting their ideas into practice. This approach can help make a garment look more flattering or showcase a garment’s features in the best possible way. Modelling also helps designers quickly make changes to pieces if needed and helps them decide which fabric works best for a particular design. In short, this forms an essential part of fashion design and is therefore something most designers utilise to create stylish garments that are both fashionable and built to last.
Types of Modelling in Fashion Design:
Modelling in fashion design is a highly specialised field and requires a fine eye for detail and precision. There are a few different types of modelling in fashion design, each of which can have a direct influence on the eventual look and feel of a garment or clothing item.
1. Sketching:
Sketching is the most traditional form of modelling in fashion design. It involves creating a two-dimensional drawing of the design on paper. Sketching is essential because it helps the designer to visualise the design and make changes before creating a prototype. It is also an excellent way to communicate the design to the client or a team of designers.
2. Draping:
Draping involves draping a piece of fabric directly onto a mannequin or a dress form to create a three-dimensional design. It is often used in high-end fashion design and requires a lot of skill and expertise. Draping is essential because it allows the designer to see how the fabric will fall and how the design will look on a body. It is also an excellent way to experiment with different silhouettes and shapes. It is the most time-consuming of all modelling techniques, as each fabric is draped and shaped differently, depending on its weight and how it will affect the overall look of the garment. Once the desired shape is achieved, the draped model can be made into a pattern that can be then used to sew the final product.
3. Flat Pattern Making:
Flat pattern making is a technique used to create a two-dimensional pattern that can be used to create a three-dimensional garment. It involves taking measurements of the body and creating a pattern on paper. Flat pattern making is essential because it allows the designer to make adjustments and changes to the design before creating a prototype.
4. 3D Modelling:
3D modelling is a relatively new technique used in fashion design. It involves creating a three-dimensional digital model of the design using computer software. 3D modelling is essential because it allows the designer to see the design from all angles and make changes before creating a prototype.
Importance of Modelling in Fashion Design:
1. Saves Time and Money:
Modelling is an essential step in the fashion design process because it saves time and money. By creating a visual representation of the design, the designer can make changes and adjustments before creating a prototype. This helps to eliminate any errors or mistakes that could be costly to fix later on.
2. Allows for Experimentation:
Modelling allows the designer to experiment with different silhouettes, shapes, and fabrics before creating a final design. This helps the designer to create a unique and innovative design that stands out in the market.
3. Communication:
Modelling is an excellent way to communicate the design to the client or a team of designers. It allows everyone involved in the design process to see and understand the design, making it easier to make changes and adjustments.
4. Precise and Accurate:
Modelling ensures that the final design is precise and accurate. By creating a visual representation of the design, the designer can make sure that all the details are correct and that the final product meets the client’s requirements.
5. Creativity:
Modelling allows the designer to be creative and innovative. By experimenting with different fabrics, shapes, and silhouettes, the designer can create a unique and beautiful design that stands out in the market.
6. Conceptualization:
One of the most important roles of modelling in fashion design is in the early stages of conceptualisation. When a designer is formulating their collection, they need to be able to visualise their ideas in order to determine their direction. Modelling allows designers to accurately visualise their garments on the body, allowing them to make informed decisions about the construction and fit of their designs. It also allows designers to experiment with different fabrics, colours and shapes to create their desired silhouette. Without the visualisation of modelling, a designer may lack the inspiration or confidence to continue with their collection.
7. Bringing a designer’s Vision to life:
When it comes to the runway show, modelling is an essential part of bringing a designer’s vision to life. The models chosen to wear the designer’s pieces must be chosen carefully in order to do justice to the designs. Models must be able to represent the designer’s vision and be able to showcase the garments in a way that draws attention and captures the audience’s imagination. Models must also be selected based on their body type in order to ensure a good fit for each garment. Without appropriate models, a designer’s collection may not be able to reach its potential.
Conclusion:
Modeling is an essential step in the fashion design process. It allows the designer to experiment with different silhouettes, shapes, and fabrics, saves time and money, and ensures that the final product is precise and accurate. The different types of modeling used in fashion design include sketching, draping, flat pattern making, and 3D modeling. Each of these techniques has its unique advantages and is used depending on the designer’s preference and the requirements of the client.
References:
- The models bible – R.C Lane
- The Model Book – Stephan M Czaja
- https://textilelearner.net/fashion-model-types-and-roles-in-fashion-industry/
- https://www.hitechmoda.com/post/types-of-models
- https://thehhub.com/2018/10/10/types-of-modeling/
- https://www.fashioncapital.co.uk/industry/news/324-industry/7650-the-importance-of-models/
Author of This Article:
Nazifa Tabassum
Clothing and Textile
Govt. College of Applied Human Science, Dhaka
Email: [email protected]
Editor of Fashion2Apparel. She is a fashion designer and ex-lecturer in Fashion Designing. She wants to spread fashion knowledge throughout the world.
