Refer to FIGURE D and FIGURE E below and answer the questions that follow - NSC Design - Question 3 - 2017 - Paper 1

In comparing FIGURE D, an avant-garde dress by Issey Miyake, with FIGURE E, the Pouffe Dress by Emmanuel Nunez, we can observe a striking difference in inspiration and aesthetic.

Inspiration

The dress in FIGURE D appears to be influenced by traditional attire, possibly reflecting the flowing garments worn by Arabian women. It integrates modern design elements that combine traditional patterns with contemporary cuts. In contrast, FIGURE E showcases African influences, merging a traditional print with a modern silhouette that plays on texture and volume.

Form and Structure

FIGURE D features large, sweeping forms, creating a dynamic silhouette characterized by its geometric patterns and high waist. It blends industrial elements with a more ethereal effect, while FIGURE E opts for a more fluid, skirt-like shape that elegantly swells at the bottom, contrasting with the structured top.

Color and Texture

The color palette in FIGURE D is vibrant, making use of contrasting yellows and whites, whereas FIGURE E relies on a deeper red with black accents, creating a dramatic and bold statement. The textures involved differ as well, wherein FIGURE D exhibits a mix of fabrics enhancing the visual appeal, while FIGURE E’s use of a single fabric complements its structured form.

In conclusion, both dresses reflect modern interpretations of traditional styles, yet they differ significantly in inspiration, form, color, and texture, illustrating the vast possibilities in contemporary fashion design.