The Art
of Line
Line• Refers to an elongated mark that connects
two or more points.
• Line – encloses space
– divides space
– creates shapes
What lines appear in this
dress?
Lines can create optical illusions
Structural
Decorative
Vs.
• Structural – lines are required to maintain the structure of the garment; for example, seams
• Decorative – lines created by the designer purely for decoration; for example, a printed-on design
Vertical
• Message– Formal
• Illusion– Increases, emphasizes, reinforces length, height,
narrowness, thinness– slimming• Placement
– Deep v-necklines, narrow lapels, vertical stripes, darts, pleats, folds, crease, zippers, row of buttons, neckties,
Horizontal
• Message– relaxed, casual,
• Illusion– Increases, emphasizes, reinforces width, bulk,
shortness, counters vertical lines, when placed high appears taller, when placed low appears shorter
• Placement– Necklines, bow ties, horizontal stripes, belts, cuffs,
waistline, platform shoes, wide-brimmed hat
Diagonal
• Message– movement, dramatic
• Illusion– Increases, emphasizes, reinforces the direction of the
dominant angle• Placement
– V-shaped neckline, open collar, lapels, raglan sleeve seamlines, closures, row of buttons, fabric inset, diagonal stripes, herringbone pattern, zigzag pattern, A-line skirt, flared skirt or pants
Curved Lines
• Message– Gentle, Romantic, Soft, Casual,
• Illusion– Holds attention longer, increases, emphasizes, reinforces
rounded soft-body curves
• Placements– Fabric pattern, necklines, collars, seamlines, bows, lapels,
sleeves, ruffles, skirts, gathers, trims, buttons
Portfolio Assignment
• Design two outfits using two of the four lines.
• Horizontal or Vertical, Curved Line, Diagonal Line• Address the following in your summary:
– What lines are found in your design?– Where are the lines found?– Are the lines structural or decorative?– What is the illusion and message associated with
the described lines.
Curved line sample
portfolio page
Diagonal Line sample
portfolio page
Straight line portfolio
sample page
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