3 Tips for Capturing Historical Fashion Design

Hey everyone,

Have you tried to design a character for a specific historical aesthetic but you don't know how to capture specific visual aspects of that period of history?. In today's post, I'll give you three simple steps to address this issue.

The solution to this problem, in my opinion, can be addressed in three steps: Context, Analysis of Distinctive Aspects, and Details. This topic was brought to the table by a patron on Discord. The problem was about designing Victorian era clothing for a character. Let's use this example for today's context.

1. Context

When we approach fashion analysis, it's good to make a short search about cloth motive, perhaps the fashion era, just for the sake of a bit of context. Especially if it's conceptually related to your goal. If not, simply being informed about the fashion trend can guide you towards original concepts that embody its functional essence.

Victorian Dress Context: During the Victorian era (1837-1901), dresses served as indicators of the time's prevailing aesthetics and values. Corsets were used to achieve a cinched waist, a popular silhouette of the era. Voluminous skirts, supported by cage crinolines, were in vogue, reflecting the period's preference for grand designs. Intricate lacework and embroidery showcased craftsmanship, while the choice of materials like silk and satin indicated wealth and class. Hats, often adorned with feathers and flowers, were influenced by the Victorian interest in nature and the exotic.

2. Analysis of Distinctive Aspects

What is it that you find recognizable and interesting at first sight? Make a list of three aspects, with one being the most distinctive thing in your opinion, and three maybe less than one but still "iconic". Afterward, ask a friend or two if they think the same, just in case you are focusing on not the most distinctive visual aspects. This will serve as a frame of reference when you decide what to replicate. This might be part of the analysis as well but with an extra layer of strategy, as you need to plan what it is that you will prioritize in your execution, especially if your target is saturated with details; making a hierarchy will be helpful.

For instance, I often split the execution of my composition into shapes, colors, and values. This structure can also be useful as a hierarchy or frame of reference when deciding what to analyze. Victorian dresses might come up with different colors and values, but I'd say the most distinctive thing at first sight is their shapes. Shapes, and specifically big shapes, are often one of the first things we spot. Here is a simple analysis focused on shapes only.

• Hat: While hairstyles stand out, when thinking about shape, big hats, especially those with roses and added details, become memorable.
• Arms: The second picture captures it well. Big, almost rectangular sleeves are a key feature. Just ensure this large fabric ends before the elbows.
• Skirt: While the fabric details of these long skirts may not be unique, their consistent presence across references is notable.

While there could be more facets to delve into, starting with three major points offers a focused approach. Segmenting by anatomical regions such as the head, torso, arms, and legs can further refine this process.

3. Details

Big shapes are a good start, but they need complementary information, which can be smaller or secondary points of information, like shapes inside the big shape's silhouette defined by line art, values, and colors. The Victorian era might scream intricate patterns, but sometimes, a lace collar or a single brooch can evoke more of that time than an over-designed dress. These details are not just embellishments; they're whispers of the narrative you want to convey.

Conclusion

My goal here is not to tell you how to capture the aesthetic identity of a Victorian dress, but to provide a useful analysis and execution structure, regardless of the topic or goal. Or even better for you to come up with more efficient ways to capture historical periods visually.

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Tomorrow, I'll be sharing the process video of this piece along with the files and insights. They will be available for Mastering Maestro tier and above. Feel free to upgrade if you want more insights about my work.

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