1. The Principles of Design
As applied to apparel

2. Balance
The principle of design that implies equilibrium or steadiness among the parts of a design or outfit.
Balance in garments is produced by structural parts and added decoration.
A properly balanced garment appears equal in weight and power of attraction from all sides, from top to bottom, and from front to back.

3. Formal balance
Equilibrium provided by symmetrical parts. One side resembles the other.

4. Informal balance
Equilibrium provided by asymmetrical parts. One side is unequal to the other.

5. Proportion
The principle of design dealing with the relative sizes of all the parts in a design to each other and to the whole.
Garment details and accessories should be proportioned for the wearer.
Proportion is most pleasing when garment areas are unevenly divided.

6. Proportion

7. Emphasis The principle of design that uses a concentration
of interest or area of focus in a particular part or
area of design.
Emphasis or a focal point can be used to draw attention or to keep the eye away.
Emphasis can be provided through the use of color, texture, structural lines, decorative lines, or accessories.

8. Emphasis

9. Rhythm
The principle of design concerned with the
pleasing arrangement of the design elements to
produce a feeling of continuity or easy movement
of the observer’s eye.
Rhythm is what allows the viewer’s eye to move steadily and smoothly through the lines and spaces of the design.

10. Four main types of rhythm
Repetition
Gradation
Radiation
Alternation

11. Rhythm
Repetition: Rhythm created by repeated lines, shapes, colors, or textures in a garment.
Gradation: Rhythm created by a gradual increase or decrease of similar design elements.

12. Rhythm (cont)
Radiation: Rhythm created by lines emerging from a central point like rays, resulting in the parts being an equal distance from a given point.
Alternation: Rhythm created by alternating elements such as light and dark colors or stripes of two colors or sizes.

13. To appear taller and thinner
Black, navy blue, charcoal, and chocolate brown
Monochromatic colors
Straight silhouettes
Vertical lines
Subtle prints, plaids
Smooth, flat textures
Narrow, matching belt

14. To appear shorter and thicker
Sharply contrasting colors
Light, bright, warm colors
Wide silhouettes
Horizontal lines
Bold prints, plaids
Bulky texture
Wide, contrasting belt
Gathers or pleats

15. To attract attention White, yellow, orange, and red Bright colors
Busy prints
Shiny or textured fabric
Clingy fabrics

16. To avoid attention Dark, cool, and dull colors Plain patterns
Minimal structural design
Earth tones
No applied decoration