If you are an aspiring fashion designer in India, you need to have a firm understanding of the fashion terminology that designers use every day. Knowing these terms is just as important as mastering embroidery or draping techniques. They come in handy when you want to communicate your ideas effectively. As new trends emerge, these terms help you interpret them and create designs that keep up with the times. Here is a list of 10 essential fashion terms that every aspiring designer should master.
1. Silhouette
It is the fashion terminology used to describe the outline or shape of any garment. In the Indian fashion space, it can refer to the flowing lines of an Anarkali, the structured look of a lehenga, or the straight cut of a kurta. Understanding how a silhouette works can help you design outfits that flatter various body types.
2. Draping
Draping involves a designer positioning fabric on a mannequin or body to create the desired style. In Indian fashion, this includes dupatta placements, lehenga draping, and sari drapes. Learning how to drape is a paramount skill for mastering traditional Indian garments.
3. Texture
When you touch the surface of any fabric, you feel something; sometimes it is crisp, sometimes it is soft. This difference is what we call texture. For instance, you may have heard of Banarasi silk, Chanderi, and Khadi. They have different names because their textures give them a unique identity.
4. Hemline
The bottom edge of a garment is called the hemline. When it comes to Indian outfits, it could refer to the length of a kurta, the flare of a lehenga, or the border of a sari. Although hemlines are at the bottom, they have a significant impact on the overall look of an outfit.
5. Seam
A seam is created when two pieces of fabric are stitched together. In India, seams are often used for heavy embroidery or zari work. Mastering the art of seams ensures both durability and elegance in an outfit.
6. Pattern
In the fashion world, a pattern is like a template for cutting fabric pieces. In Indian fashion design, designers use patterns for embroidered motifs, block prints, or intricate lehenga panels. Understanding patterns helps you create garments with precise fits and culturally rich designs.
7. Notions
Notions are the small tools or accessories used in making garments, such as buttons, hooks, tassels, or zippers. In Indian fashion, notions might also include gota lace, zari threads, or decorative tassels that enhance ethnic wear.
8. Bias
Bias refers to the diagonal direction of a fabric. Cutting on the bias allows fabric to drape gracefully, which is particularly useful for sarees, dupattas, and flowing lehengas. It adds elegance and movement to traditional Indian attire.
9. Embellishments
They are decorative details like embroidery, sequins, beads, mirror work, or zari. In India, embellishments are central to garments like bridal lehengas, festive sarees, and festive kurtas. Mastering embellishments helps you create visually striking ethnic designs.
10. Ready-to-wear
Ready-to-wear is a fashion terminology that basically refers to mass-produced clothing sold in standard sizes. In India, RTW includes ethnic fusion wear, Indo-western kurtis, and festive collections available in boutiques or online. Understanding RTW helps designers balance tradition with commercial viability.
Conclusion
Mastering fashion terminology is essential for Indian fashion students. Whether you aspire to design contemporary Indo-western wear or traditional ethnic garments, being fluent in these terms will help you bring your creative vision to life while respecting India’s rich textile heritage.