Chapter 3
Iconic Designs: Step-by-Step Projects
Inspiration from Pop Culture
By now, you have probably learned more about your personal design style, discovered what types of fashion inspire you, and learned how to use a variety of tools to create special effects in your illustrations. You’re well on your way to becoming a forward-thinking designer! For even more inspiration and ideas, it’s helpful to look to iconic figures from pop culture—both past and present—to see how their styles might further influence your own work. After all, it’s not uncommon for professional fashion designers to create complete outfits with certain celebrity muses in mind!
Trailblazing Artist
Inspired by Frida Kahlo
For this sketch, a simple, straightforward pose showing off the clothing and headdress works best.
1
Draw an oval for the head and a stick figure made of lines and circles.
2
Add volume to the figure by outlining the stick figure moving from joint to joint. Add a midline and eyeline to the face, as well as the flowers atop her head.
3
Sketch in the clothing, including a boxy blouse, shoulder wrap, full skirt, and boots.
4
Erase unnecessary lines to reveal the basic garments only.
5
Add the details! Since this fashion is inspired by an iconic artist, try using some motifs that are fitting to her style, such as a square frame of ribbon trim on the blouse and a band of decorative trim on the skirt. Add bulky statement jewelry to punch up the effect.
Using any art tools of your choosing, add deep color with lots of texture. In this case, the hand-painted art is outlined lightly in charcoal. Painted decorative ribbons shine in bright colors, and rosy cheeks and bright red lips complete the visage of Frida Kahlo.
Hollywood Classic
Inspired by Audrey Hepburn
Drawing a figure inspired by a celebrity or icon demands a pose and look that suits their personality while also highlighting the clothing.
1
Draw the basic form with lines and joints. Use simple shapes for the hands and feet.
2
Begin filling out the stick figure.
3
Add in clothing and shoes.
4
Erase any unneeded sketch lines.
5
Add the defining details that make the look unique. Tailored seamlines are shown here, plus wrist gloves and jewels!
Celebrities and other famous figures often become well-known for their signature looks, which makes them almost instantly identifiable. Many fashion designers dream of the day that a celebrity wears one of their creations. The little black dress, flats, gloves, and sparkly jewels are all signatures of Audrey Hepburn. Add red lipstick, a tiara, and streamlined tailoring to hit the mark.
Music Mogul & Performer
Inspired by Jay-Z
A casual walking pose seems perfect for this fashion icon with a cool urban style.
1
Sketch the pose with horizontal lines for the shoulders, chest, waist, and hips. Next, add lines and circles to denote the joints.
2
Begin filling out the figure, including the broad shoulders and torso.
3
Add basic outlines for the clothing.
4
Clean up your sketch and erase any unnecessary pencil marks.
5
Style it up! A modern leather jacket, graphic T-shirt, and baggy jeans are paired with shades, a cap, and workman-style boots for a cool and casual look.
Experiment with this look (and the other celebrity-inspired looks shown in this section) by swapping out accessories, shoes, and jackets that match the figure’s general wardrobe staples and personality. Try not to copy the same look each time.
Royally Chic
Inspired by Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle
A casual walking pose is common for a celebrity who is always under the watchful eye of everyone around the globe!
1
Start with the typical stick figure. Use an oval for the head and add horizontal lines for the shoulders, chest, waist, and hips. Add more lines and circles to show limb position.
2
Add volume to the figure and sketch in the beginning of the hairstyle.
3
Draw the clothing as simply as possible. Indicate the basics of the design, including shape, length, and accessories.
4
Erase sketch marks to give yourself a clean drawing.
5
Now refine and add the subtle details. This fashion icon won’t need too much because her style is all about simple forms with little fuss.
Clean lines and confident shapes define this look almost as much as the mostly neutral color palette accented with a few monochromatic earthy hues. It’s a look suited for royalty and the simplistic style of the Duchess of Sussex.