How to Design Tops and Dresses

Last Updated: February 18, 2021 References

Have you ever wanted to be a fashion designer? Start with the basics. This article will teach you how to draw a basic top or dress. The details are up to you!

Steps

1
Put on some music if that helps you think, or even watch a fashion program to help you decide what style you want. You could even flip through a fashion magazine (Chatelaine, Elle, and Cosmopolitan are great) for ideas.
2
Collect your supplies and decide if you are going to draw a sleeveless, long, short, spaghetti strap, strapless, or three quarter length sleeve (long sleeve and strapless are simple).^{[1]
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3
Make sure you're drawing on lined paper so you have guidelines and a better sense of proportion. Later, you can draw the sketch on plain paper.
4
Start with a basic shoulder sketch. It doesn't have to be fancy -- you can always go back and fix things later. Right now, your goal is to get your idea on paper. Details come afterwards.^{[2]
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5
Draw a curved line. This will be the top of your top/dress.
6
Then draw two thin lines coming down for the corners.
7
Go down the page where the waist will be and do a slight inward curve to show that the model has a figure. Have a figure so it's more fitted. Fitted outfits are more flattering than clothes that hang on you like a sack. You can draw sack like baggy clothes if you want to.^{[3]
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8
Do the bottom of your top/dress however you want. You could make it long or short, lacy or regular, hemmed or not hemmed, angled or straight.^{[4]
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Community Q&A

Question

What if I designed a dress and then realized it matches an existing dress design?

Community Answer

Try to change the dress or make it unique. Add some pearls or gems or even some feathers. You can still use the basic design.
Question

I want to be a fashion designer, so how can I improve my personality according to it?

Community Answer

Try designing or sketching every day, watch fashion shows, and research fashion at all times, it will help you.
Question

Do I draw in a face or not?

Community Answer

You can if you want to, but it's not necessary and usually isn't done. The focus should be on the article of clothing.
Question

How do I design a wedding dress?

Community Answer

Look at some pictures. First, figure out the top and work your way down. Remember to not go over the top though.
Question

My mom has a sewing machine, but even she barely knows how to use it. I can't hand sew very well. What should I do?

Michele

Top Answerer

Check at your local quilting shop or fabric store. They sometimes have classes in sewing, as well as knitting and crochet. You can also check your local county schools for continuing education, often sewing classes are offered. If the former don’t work, try Nextdoor.com or other local sources to find someone who can help you learn. You can even put up a small notice in your local market asking for someone to teach you, you’ll be surprised at the response you get. Sewing isn’t difficult, but like anything, it takes time and practice to learn and become proficient.
Question

I am 12 years old. How can I sell my many dress sketches and designs?

Community Answer

Sell them at school fairs or market stalls if you can.
Question

How do you actually design it with fabric?

Community Answer

You need to get a sewing machine first then follow the design that you created.
Question

How can I be a good designer?

Community Answer

That is an unanswerable question, really. You need talent, passion, and hard work.
Question

How do I get a scholarship?

Community Answer

Getting a scholarship to a design school may not be easy, but it’s totally possible. Just work hard and do the best you can. If you don’t get a scholarship from your desired school, there are many others out there. Remember, be patient, and try your best.
Question

How do I identify the length?

Community Answer

Say you're wanting to know the length from the neck to the waist: you just measure that on yourself or the on model using a measuring tape.

Warnings

You probably will mess up. Try, try again! You'll get better and better.

Thanks!
Helpful 100 Not Helpful 13
Never copy someone else's design! Instead, be original.

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Use a pencil and a good eraser. No pens allowed!

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