How I Design My Fashion Sketches – In The Making: SZN’26 Ep. 5
How I Create Fashion Sketches: Behind the Scenes of My SS’26 Collection
In Episode 5 of In the Making, I’m showing you how I bring my ideas to life through fashion sketches. From choosing fabrics to sketching silhouettes that balance beauty and functionality, this episode offers a detailed look at how I turn inspiration into a full collection.
Whether you’re sketching your first piece or refining your creative flow, you’ll walk away with tips, tools, and a better understanding of what makes fashion sketches more than just drawings; they’re visual stories.
My Design Process Starts With Fabric
Before pencil ever hits paper, it starts with fabric. Once I source my materials, I begin developing fashion sketches that reflect the weight, stretch, and drape of each textile.
Fabric selection sparks creativity. Is it suited for a casual piece, an elevated essential, or something editorial? I use that spark to sketch silhouettes that make sense and make a statement.
The Formula I Use to Build a Strong Collection
I don’t just draw what looks good. I sketch with strategy. Here’s how I break down my collection:
- The Hero Piece: The standout look that tells the story
- The Bread-and-Butter Basics: Simple, sellable styles
- The Trend Items: Fashion-forward pieces that keep it current
- The Editorial Pieces: Bold, expressive designs that spark conversation
In this episode, I show you how I sketch each category and walk you through how I structure an entire collection around them.
My Go-To Tools for Fashion Sketches
I typically use Adobe Illustrator, but I know it’s not accessible for everyone. So here are a few great options, most of them free or low-cost:
- Linearity Curve (Vectornator) – Free, intuitive vector sketch app
- Inkscape – Free downloadable tool with great functionality
- Affinity Designer – A one-time purchase alternative to Adobe
- Canva Draw Tool – Beginner-friendly and useful for hand sketches
- Procreate – Great for digital freehand sketching
These tools make it easier to create clear, professional-looking fashion sketches, even if you’re just starting out.
Not a Designer? Sketching Can Still Help You
Even if you’re a boutique owner or just planning your brand, sketching helps clarify your vision. Use the same method I do:
- Choose a hero piece
- Build around it with everyday basics
- Mix in trendy styles for seasonal appeal
- Add a bold or artistic piece to round it out
Following this simple format helps you plan your inventory and stay true to your brand identity.
Sketching With Production in Mind
Every sketch I draw includes technical details. I’m thinking about seams, fit, construction, and how the garment will actually be made. These aren’t just illustrations; they’re a guide for my factory to bring the design to life.
This is where my manufacturing company, Riche Stitch, comes in. We also create fashion sketches for designers who need help bringing their ideas to life. If you only have a reference photo or a rough idea in your head, we can help sketch it, refine it, and prepare it for production.
Final Thoughts: Sketching With Intention and Emotion
My Spring/Summer 2026 collection, Living Proof, isn’t just another lineup of clothes. It’s a personal expression of growth, confidence, and grace. And it all started with fabric swatches and fashion sketches.
Episode 5 of In the Making shows what it means to sketch with emotion, strategy, and storytelling in mind. I hope it inspires you to start sketching your own story.
Watch the Full Episode
Watch In the Making: Episode 4 now on the Iconic Fashion Figure’s YouTube channel. You’ll see exactly how I create my fashion sketches. Want to view the manufacturer’s perspective? Visit Riche Stitch for the full two-sided journey.
Be sure to like and subscribe!
Key Timestamps in this video:
00:00 — How I Create My Fashion Sketches
00:25 — Fabric dilemma: What would you make with this?
01:46 — My go-to tools for digital fashion sketching
02:35 — Why I still use Adobe Illustrator + learning Browzwear
03:40 — The hero piece: Starting the design process
04:26 — Fabric swatches & sketching based on fabric
05:12 — Building out the rest of the collection
06:13 — Easy sellers, trend pieces, and editorial balance
08:10 — Creating fashion for all lifestyles & occasions
09:54 — How boutique owners can apply this method too
12:30 — My favorite free sketching software alternatives
13:46 — Other affordable fashion design tools
15:45 — Turning sketches into specs for production
16:55 — What’s Next
FAQs: Fashion Sketches for Beginners
Do I need to know how to draw to create fashion sketches?
Not at all. Sketching is about communication, not perfection. Tools and templates can help you express your design clearly.
What is the best app for sketching fashion designs?
Linearity Curve is a great free option. Adobe Illustrator is the industry standard, but Inkscape and Affinity Designer are also excellent.
Can boutique owners benefit from sketching too?
Yes. Sketching—even roughly—helps plan your inventory, tell your brand story, and communicate clearly with manufacturers.
Can Riche Stitch help me with my fashion sketches?
Yes! If you need help creating sketches for your collection, our team at Riche Stitch can create and refine them with you.
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