Neckline, hemline, waistline, yoke line, dart line, princess-line, lines on fabric patterns – there is no shortage of lines in fashion design. And no one can argue that the direction and placement of these lines determine the visual effect of the clothes you wear/design.
The two main types of lines, straight lines, and curved lines, are used in many different ways in fashion design to create many structural and decorative dimensions.
The line is one of the most basic concepts of geometry and it is used in clever ways by designers to present their concepts in many innovative and creative ways. The line creates flow and movement in your design, it gives shape to your creation, focuses attention, and brings to life any illusion that you want to make the viewer feel.
So, Which are these different lines, and how are they used effectively in designing clothes to create an optimum impact on the observer?
20 types of design lines in fashion designing
1.Straight line
A straight line is the simplest of the different forms of a design line. It is the opposite of a round shape – It is even and unbroken. A straight line is taken for granted as being neat, stiff, and slim.
You will find a straight line on hems, a square neckline, and waistline.
2.Vertical line
The vertical line is placed along the length of the garment/body from top going down – and thus elongates the length of the body/garment. It can create an illusion of greater length than is present. They also lend an effect of slimness when incorporated into your design.
You will see vertical lines in action in center opening of shirts/blouses, straight darts, pleats, panels, use of stiff fabrics.Â
3.Horizontal line
The horizontal line is placed across the garment/body – and thus broadens the width of the body/garment. It cuts the body/garment to create an illusion of shortness or broadness.
Hemlines, waistlines, belts etc are examples of horizontal lines.Â
4.Diagonal line
A diagonal line goes from one corner to the other (unlike from edge to edge in the case of horizontal or vertical lines). Diagonal lines are all about drape and movement.Â
It can be too horizontally or vertically inclined, which will determine its true effect. But a true diagonal line is flattering.
Lapels of a coat, dart on the armhole, the side seams of an a-line silhouette, the seam joining the sleeve to a raglan bodice.Â
5. Zigzag lines
The zig zag line is a line that makes sharp turns at regular intervals creating z shapes. This line is very prominent and can create an illusion of bigness. It can also create a sense of urgency or confusion if the use of these lines is not restrained to moderation.
Ric rac trims, accordion pleats, herringbone weave of a fabric.
6.Curved line (Softly)
A curved line is very reminiscent of our body contours – we have many curves on our body and curved lines on clothes can softly enhance those. It can emphasize femininity and give the illusion of beauty. It makes your design soft and supple. Curved lines can also give the look of youthfulness and vigor.
Princess line, curved hemlines of skirts.
7.Curved line (Fully)
Round (U) necklines, circle hemlines, round pockets. All these emphasize roundness, so if the effect sought is slimness, these are to be avoided in those areas where you wish.
8.Thin lines
Thin lines look delicate, fragile, and light in weight.
A baby hem, seams all are thin lines. Fabric patterns /weaves with thin lines can emphasize the delicate effect you want to project.
9. Thick lines
Thick lines indicate heaviness; they can also emphasize a portion of the garment and draw the eye to that area.
Thick trims, ribbons, Belts, bands, sashes, panels or inserts, heavy border designs, and border embroidery lines.
10. Long line
Long lines indicate movement – they can give energy to the creation, and our eyes move from one end to the other of the long line. As our eye moves up and down, if a long line is given vertically, it can provide the illusion of slimness.
Seams that run from the top of the garment to the bottom – princess line; sleeve seam cutting a long sleeve by the half, and a long slit in the skirt are examples.
11. Short Line
A short line that ends abruptly can draw the eye to that area.
Examples of short lines are darts, tucks, pocket openings, small trims, short plackets, and zipper openings.
12. Crossover line.
This line is formed when one line intersects another. A wrap bodice is a perfect example of a crossover line.
13. Converging lines
Converging lines are two or more lines that get closer and closer toward the end. You can find it in a V neckline.
14. Concave curve
A concave curve is an inward curve. i.e the concave line curves inward. It will look like the interior of a circle.Â
15. Convex curve
A convex curve is shaped to the outside. No part of a convex curve curves or faces inwards.
The soft shape of the padded bra is a typical example of a convex shape in fashion design.Â
16. Perpendicular lines
A perpendicular line is formed when two straight lines meet at the right angle (90 degrees). Darts are perfect examples. You will see them on slits, plackets, and on crossed lines.
17. Alternating lines
These are different lines appearing adjacent to each, running parallel to each other or crossing each other. They make the chequered pattern, pintucks.Â
18. Wavy lines
Wavy lines refer to lines that have a movement, like the swelling and falling of the waves. Energy and movement are inherent in wavy lines – at the same time, the consistent and rhythmic movement of the wavy lines can look very soothing to the eye. A playful mood is characteristic of wavy lines.
Lettuce edge on knit fabrics, rolled edge hem, and scallops are all made of wavy lines.
19. Spiral lines
Spiral lines circular lines with a focal point that lead the eye toward them. These lines have a seductive movement- they are feminine and eye-catching. They are usually added as a decorative element. They can give the illusion of bigness.
You will find these lines in fabric patterns, fabric flowers, embroidery, and other embellishments.
20.Broken-lines (Dotted lines)
A row of buttons forms a line – but it is not a line, but the line is implied with strategic placement of other things, like the buttons in this case.
Related posts :Fashion styles ; Fashion terms;Â 10 important elements of Fashion design.Â
Really very practically informed an independent knowledge for element of design ..LINE.
no scalloped line Hepplewhite
Scalloped line
Yes but are there any guidelines for choosing line in a fabric
Please convert this in hindi language also ….
And this is very helpful for me
Thanks a lot for the information
Thanks alot the information was superb and the dresses
Thank you Dora
The information help alot.