One of the best things about New York Fashion Week for me is when designers release their sketches. I've always loved comparing and contrasting the various drawing techniques, mediums, and styles used throughout the industry. It could also be a fantastic source of inspiration and jumping board to try something new in your own fashion illustrations. For example, I find Kelly Wearstler's painted fashion illustration (above right) on a dark textured paper so strikingly beautiful it makes me want to whip out the paint and gauche. The faint white brush strokes framing the figure makes the illustration pop right off the paper, its such great effect. And Jenny Packham's sketch (above left) is quite different but stands out as well showing how minimal stylized pencil lines can also convey a strong design.
The Calvin Klein sketch is clearly a stylistic extreme being a watercolored silhouette but it certainly has a lovely effect and could act as a great exercise idea. The Diane Von Furstenberg illustration (above right) has a charming and playful look. I love the layering of garments and accessories within the stylized sketch.
Last but certainly not least is my newest favorite designer, Rachel Zoe. The sharp pen outlines, blunt coloring, and elongated figure give this drawing an attitude that truly resinates with her spring 13' collection as well as the established brand esthetic.
We'll have wait till February for the next batch of sketches from designer collections because today was a wrap for New York Fashion Week's spring/summer 2013 collections at Lincoln Center. These were my favorite designer sketches from the season, how about yours?
(The fashion illustrations displayed here were all created and released by each designer, or design house, from their spring/summer 2013 collection.)
