An approach to develop creativity by understanding structure in fashion design education

Abstract

There are numerous approaches that can be considered for analysing structure in fashion design. In order to create something new, a move away from conventional generic shapes toward more interesting structures is a necessity. The purpose of this study was to investigate an approach to the design process that could facilitate the understanding of structure as a fundamental component of fashion design and support students' development in creativity with structurally interesting garments. By developing a concept based on nature using 2-dimensional visual source material, drawing, collage, and experimental research development in the form of a sketchbook, a group of students from Department of Fashion Design who joined the project, were encouraged to make a rational analysis of the structural elements at their disposal. By executing a series of exercises aimed at exploring structure, students were observed to make a gradual progression from 2-dimensional research through design development, to 3-dimensional garment construction. In conjunction with the idea of structurally interesting designs, fabric choices, pattern making and garment construction were also considered. Each step from 2-dimensional exercises to garment construction was recorded as visual and written documentation. Additionally, a questionnaire was developed to receive student opinions and feedback. As a result, configuration of the design exercises and the project setup has been identified as an encouraging approach both to develop students' understanding of structure in fashion design and for the development of creativity in 3-dimension.