How to Draw Clothes

An Example of Fabric Drape

Drawing clothes can be difficult and a bit intimidating. All the folds and draping seem complicated at first glance. But it really isn't as hard as it seems. You just have to understand some basic principles.

Things You'll Need

• Pencil
• Paper
• Models to look at

Instructions

1. Draw the body underneath the clothes first. The only way you will be able to draw great-looking clothes is to understand the bodies beneath them.

2. Take a look at the body. Ask yourself how the clothes will hang, where they will budge because of muscles, and where they will cling.

3. Start drawing the clothing. Remember, all clothing wraps around the body. Don't just draw rectangles onto the body; show where the clothes curve around the limbs and trunk. This is achieved by using curves in perspective.

4. Add folds to the fabrics. Most folds are simply shadows in the shapes of triangles and wedges. Always break down the folds into basic shapes to make the drawing simpler.

5. Add details, which will make your drawing look real. Add zippers, buttons, pockets and embellishments.

Tips & Warnings

• Make the edges of clothing a little darker than the lines you use to draw body parts.

• Add shadows underneath the bottoms of shirts and dresses.

• Don't draw your clothing skin-tight simply to avoid drawing folds. The skin-tight look only works when you are drawing tights.