Design Elements

The body comprises various parts, and in understanding this breakdown, developing an outfit design then becomes an easier process to think about: rather than having to imagine a novel new wardrobe idea, what if you started of with the arm coverings (sleeves), torso and back, midriff, hips and legs? Different areas of a garment have commonly used patterns that can be combined to create a design. While there is certainly a trial-and-error aspect to it, at the very least having this strategy at hand gives structure to the creative process. Have a look at the example below:

An illustration of a surplice neckline, with materials overlapping to form a V neckline An illustration of cape sleeves, short with flaring ends An illustration of a natural waistline, right at the actual waistline, with fabric bunched up at it An illustration of a wrap skirt
Individually, they may not seem related, but when their elements are put together...
Photo credits to Sew Guide - Beginner's Sewing
A sketch combining the neckline, sleeves, waistline and skirt type to create a wrap dress design
...congratulations, you designed a wrap dress! (Looks somewhat familiar doesn't it?)
Photo credits to Angelica Munyao