Structure

Definition

In the context of costume design, structure refers to the way elements are organized and assembled within a garment to create shape, support, and visual interest. This includes the materials used, the construction techniques employed, and the overall silhouette that is formed. Understanding structure is crucial because it impacts not only the aesthetic appeal of costumes but also their functionality and how they relate to movement and performance.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Structure in costume design can greatly influence how a character is perceived by an audience, as it communicates traits such as status, personality, and mood.
2. Different fabrics have varying structural qualities; for example, stiffer fabrics can hold shapes better than softer ones, affecting the final appearance of the costume.
3. The use of undergarments, padding, and supports can enhance the structure of a costume, allowing it to achieve desired shapes while also providing comfort to the wearer.
4. Historical periods often dictate specific structures in clothing; for example, Victorian fashion utilized corsetry to create an exaggerated hourglass silhouette.
5. Structure is not just about aesthetics; it also impacts how costumes move with performers, affecting their ability to act and dance effectively on stage.

Review Questions

• How does structure influence the overall visual impact of a costume in relation to character portrayal?
  • Structure plays a vital role in shaping how a costume appears on stage and what it conveys about a character. For instance, a structured silhouette can suggest authority or elegance, while a loose structure might imply freedom or playfulness. By carefully considering the structure, designers can enhance the storytelling aspect of a performance and help audiences better understand character motivations and traits.
• What are some key construction techniques that impact the structure of a costume, and why are they important?
  • Key construction techniques that affect the structure of a costume include pattern making, draping, and tailoring. Each technique contributes to how fabric interacts with the body and how different elements come together to create a cohesive look. For example, tailoring allows for precise fitting that can enhance or alter the wearer’s shape, making it essential for achieving specific character designs that align with the overall vision of a production.
• Evaluate how changes in fashion trends over time have influenced the structural aspects of costume design.
  • Fashion trends significantly influence structural elements in costume design by dictating what shapes, materials, and construction methods are popular or acceptable at any given time. For example, the shift from structured garments like corsets in the Victorian era to more relaxed silhouettes in modern fashion reflects changing cultural values around body image and gender roles. These shifts not only affect aesthetic preferences but also impact how designers approach the creation of costumes for contemporary performances versus historical recreations.

Related terms

Silhouette: The overall shape or outline of a garment, which plays a significant role in defining the visual impact of a costume.

Pattern Making: The process of creating templates for cutting fabric pieces that will be sewn together to form the structure of a garment.

Tailoring: A specific technique used in garment construction that involves precise fitting and shaping to create a structured look.