Amity School of Fashion Technology

ASFT
ELEMENTS OF DESIGN (PG)
Module II : Elements of Design
Topic 2.1.4 - TEXTURE

1
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

TEXTURE
https://www.slideshare.net/dolorscubi/textures-12024333
•Texture is the element of design that describes surface appearance and feel understood
by sight as well as by touch.
•It also means the appearance of the fabric, that is the look and feel of fabric.
It is quality of roughness or smoothness, dullness or glossiness, stiffness or softness.
Some words to describe the texture of fabrics are: rough, smooth, dull, shiny, firm, crisp,
fuzzy, bulky, dull, etc.
Texture is the fabric’s “character”. Some things feel just as they appear; this is
called real or actual texture. Some things look like they are rough but are actually
smooth. Texture that is created to look like something it is not, is called visual or implied
texture.

Texture may be used in a work of art to:

•create visual interest or a focal point in a composition
•to create contrast within a design composition
•to help visually balance a design composition
2
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Types of Textures

3
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Examples of Fabric texture

•Corduroy
•Velvet
•Denim
•Satin
•Cotton
•Polyester
4
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Determinants & Effects of Texture

Determinants of Texture
There are various components like fibers, yarns, fabrics and finishes that
determine texture.

Effect of texture on colour

•Colours generally seem lighter on a shiny surface than a dull one.
•Colours from “textured” and wrinkled fabrics seem darker because of more
shadows and
•colours on fuzzy surfaces mix with fiber highlights and shadows, makes them
dull slightly.
•Colours on firm, smooth surfaces seem flat.

5
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Effect of texture on body

•Smooth Texture Smooth, flat textures make people look smaller
•Shiny Textures make the body look larger because they reflect light. They make fabric
colors look lighter and brighter, thus making the body look larger.
•Rough textures tend to subdue the colors of fabrics. The texture of this jacket is fuzzy.
•Sheer Texture / fabrics reveal the true body shape. It tends to soften the figure when used
over a soft lining. This blouse is sheer
•Dull textures make a person appear smaller because they absorb light. The dull texture of
the blouse and jeans, make the person appear smaller.
•Clinging, soft textures reveal the body’s true silhouette. This blouse’s soft texture, reveals
its true
•Stiff crisp textures make the total shape appear bigger because they stand away from the
body. This linen jacket makes the body appear larger because it stands away from the body.
•Visual Texture A motif is one unit of a design that is usually repeated. A small, overall print
tends to make the wearer look smaller.
• Visual Texture Large, bold patterns increase the apparent size of the wearer. The large
flowers on this dress, makes the wearer appear large.
6
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Fabric Texture
•Fabric can have a variety of textures, all of which can affect the look of a garment or
fashion accessory. The weave and texture of a fabric has an impact on the way it drapes,
which, in turn, affects the way a garment looks when it is worn.
•Texture can be used all over the garment or for embellishment. All-over texture refers
to the weave of the garment’s main fabric. For example, a sweater made with thick, heavy
yarn has a chunky, bulky texture. Embellisments can create texture for garments too. For
example a top may have a sequined, sparkly area that looks different from the rest of the
garment.
•When coming up with outfits, people often mix textures. For example, a tweed jacket
could be paired with a skinny jean, or textured pants might be paired with a crisp shirt.
•Wise selection of textures can flatter the wearer’s appearance. Some textures create the
illusion of added weight, such as bulky or shiny fabrics. Fabric can have a variety of
textures, all of which can affect the look of a garment or fashion accessory. The weave
and texture of a fabric has an impact on the way it drapes, which, in turn, affects the way a
garment looks when it is worn.
•Commonly used fabrics in today's fashion world are all comprised of different textures
that allow certain garments to be appropriate for all types of elements.
7
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Different types of fabric textures are –

•Cotton is among the most common and comfortable type of fabric used for clothing.
This fabric has a texture that is soft, stretchy and strong, making it ideal for casual and
relaxed garments such as T-shirts, pajamas and underwear. Combining different
textures can make for a fabulous and interesting outfit. Simply pairing a fabric with a
soft texture such as cotton with a pair of rough and rugged denim jeans makes for a
cool, casual and stylish outfit.
•While the texture of wool can sometimes prove to be quite itchy and uncomfortable
for some, its common use can be attributed to its great qualities of warmth. Wool
coats are among the warmest and sturdiest of outerwear. It's these insulating qualities
that make the texture of wool ideal for blankets and socks as well.
•A smooth, soft and cool texture is a highly sought-after quality in today's garments.
Chic and luxurious, silk is a sturdy and high-quality textile with a rich history dating
back to ancient Egypt. This luxe fabric's texture is ideal for light and feminine
silhouettes commonly found in today's high-fashion market. Though pricey, silk is a
soft and sturdy fabric that's texture has put it at the top of the wish list of many
fashionistas.
•. 8
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

• Some garments have the ability to make a statement, whether by bold

colors or unique textures, and prints. Tweed garments have become a
symbol for the chic, sophisticated and stylish. Utilizing a combination of
different threads, the texture of tweed is almost instantly recognizable not
only through touch, but by simple sight. Rough and thick, tweed is a classic
clothing texture that has withstood decades in terms of style

Textures create illusions to the figure of wearer of that fabric.

• Can create illusions of size. Bold prints, checks, pile, and corduroy make the
figure look bigger.
• Coarse texture like jute and furs look bigger.
• Can disguise figure irregularities
• Can add interest to a garment

9
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

• https://www.slideshare.net/flowakidd/
element-of-design-texture

• https://www.johnlovett.com/texture

10
 Amity School of Fashion Technology

Assignment: # 1
Create 10 rubbings of a variety of everyday surfaces such as clothing, walls, trees.
Use several colours when making rubbings. This collection of rubbings will be their
texture references.
Assignment: # 2
•In your sketchbook using an HB pencil draw 3" x 4" block each. Find six (6)
different textures where three (3) are Tactile (actual textures you feel with your skin)
& the other three (3) are Implied (have the illusion of texture).
•You may use synthetic/man-made objects and/or objects found in nature.
•Emulate/reproduce the design of the texture in the blocks/frames drawn in the
sketchbook.
•Reproduce all the six (6) found textures in your sketchbook using any 2 color medium
of your choice

Hint: For implied texture, look for flat objects that have a print on them. Objects must
be able to be cut or torn up and pasted to paper. 
11