Sketching Fashion Figures,

or any figure, in profile, always seems to present unique challenges. There’s a video in this post, to help you with sketching profile fashion figures.

practice, practice, practice- playfully- sketching the fashion figures from all angles! This can be the most joyful practice.

Profile marker fashion sketch of Prabal Gurung Fall 2016 by Laura Volpintesta

understanding body anatomy and mechanics (above) and practicing them helps us sketch with flowy ease (below)

One of the keys to sketching the profile fashion figures is to follow the natural curve of the spine. Another key is to really understand how the balance line works in fashion drawing, so her feet are under her head. Also notice how the neck protrudes forward from the shoulder line!

live model drawing with brush pen- profile view- by Laura Volpintesta

We seem to have a “frontal” orientation to seeing things, as if they were two dimensional, like letters. But Figures have a wonderful 3dimensionality and one of the coolest things in a live model drawing class is having a circle of students around a standing model,drawing from every angle, constantly reminded of the number of views a garment or outfit can have.

Profile figure has a natural curve and flow following the spine and muscle tone naturally!

The mannequin or dress form rotates on its stand for the same reason…. the designer can constantly rotate and turn around what they are working out. A sculptor in clay works on a lazy susan or turntable so they can rotate their work constantly into different views to make sure they all……”jive”. (Love that word). Because if you are sculpting a figure (which a fashion designer is…) then you need to walk around the room to see each angle. EVERY ANGLE MATTERS in fashion, although many think of clothing as just a front and a back.

profile digital fashion sketch by Laura Volpintesta- dress by Ronaldo Fraga

The fact remains that STILL, it will have a side view even if you never thought about it! So consider that sketching profile fashion figures is part of your vocabulary.

These illustrations are from my Swatches to Gouache online course– check it out! Several free lessons are on the sales page

So here is today’s YOUTUBE video. I hope it helps you clarify some of the overall landmarks and keys to creating a
</p>

Inevitably, in the early weeks of sketching fashion figures/ model drawing or even later on, the issue of the profile comes up. Why do they look STIFF? Why do they look like they are tipping over? Why is the body looking straight as a broomstick? It’s because we haven’t sat down and really mastered that profile by giving it the love and attention it needs to be understood and demystified- and that’s why I’m here to coach you!!

figure rotations in proportion- from front, side/profile and 3/4 angle…. we can build a body easily- this was a demonstration from a classroom session

Here are some of the key points that will help you un-do your frustration with sketching fashion figures.

Turn up some nice tunes to draw to, and gift yourself to drawing as a therapeutic treat, like a pedicure or a massage. Get into the groove, and dance like nobody’s looking!!! …literally, and figuratively. That’s what we always do in Fashion Sketch Group!

Remember that your sketches can’t look relaxed and lovely if you aren’t feeling comfortable and unfettered while you work- so make it a priority to make your position and environment comfortable and ergonomic while you are fashion sketching (or costume sketching)

LOVE TO SHARE THIS JOY WITH YOU!

Don’t forget to subscribe, or check out my premium courses: from 12 week coaching to 7-12 week study programs, Fall is a perfect time to start up and move with a group of like minded fashion and art lovers and designers. Or, meet all year long by joining Fashion Sketch Group membership meeting 4 times per month!

Never hesitate to let me know if you have questions!https://app.ruzuku.com/courses/13070/about