How to Choose Fabrics
The following four elements determine the character of the fabric. They also dictate many of the limits of styling.
1. Surface Interest
Does the color, pattern , and texture of the fabric please you? Does it flatter you? You are able to see how the fabric works for a particular garment. But you should still consider the following things about the fabric before deciding to purchase a garment.
2.Fiber
Is the fiber suited to the season? Will it perform well and be easy to take care of? Are you allergic to it?
3.Weight
Is the garment the correct weight for your wearing requirements? Will it be appropriate for the season and climate in which you will be wearing it? Is it too specialized for the typical weather you will live in, that is, will it be wearable for only a very short season?
4. Texture of Hand
Is the fabric the correct stiffness for the garment? Does it drape well? Does it have a pleasant feel?
The designer who created your garment is familiar with all types of fabric, You, as a customer, can evaluate a garment's potential use and life by how the fabric has performed for you in the past.
The weight of a fabric is an important consideration, especially when a durable garment is being purchased. Heavier fabrics are suitable for pants, skirts, and jackets. The fabric weight should suit the garment style and the season for which it is intended. Winter fabrics are usually heaviest; spring fabrics are a medium weight; and summer fabrics are the lightest weight of all. To get the most out of your wardrobe , select as many medium-weight fabrics as possible and use them in layers to adapt them to temperature changes.
Tailored garments, such as jackets and coat, must be made in a fabric that is heavy enough to support the tailored details. If the fabric is too thin, seams will show through when they are pressed, pockets will show as ridges in the shell fabric, and bound button holes will be lumpy. Light fabric often requires a lining, which makes the garment more expensive.
Hand refers to the feel of the fabric. Hand can be altered greatly by the kind of finish applied to the fabric. A fabric's hand greatly influences the way it can be styled. A primary rule of design is to style garments in a fabric that is compatible with the silhouette desired. A fabric that is fluid and soft cannot be used for a crisp, well-tailored garment , such as a blazer. The silhouette will reflect the body shape with a fabric of a soft hand. A fabric that drapes well will fall gracefully and cling to the figure. More gathering can be used with a soft fabric , and garment will not become bulky , puffy , or awkward. A crisp fabric, like linen or sailcloth, can be used for a well-defined, tailored silhouette.