- TAKORADI POLYTECHNIC REPOSITORY

TAKORADI POLYTECHNIC
THE SCHOOL OF APPLIED ARTS
DEPARTMENT OF FASHION DESIGN AND TEXTILE
STUDIES
THE USE OF CONTEMPORARY TREND IN DESIGNING
BEACHWEAR FOR AVERAGE GHANAIAN LADIES.
BY
MAVIS NANA AMA DONKOH
JULY, 2011
1
TAKORADI POLYTECNIC
THE USE OF CONTEMPORARY TREND IN DESIGNING BEACHWEAR
FOR AVERAGE GHANAIAN LADIES
A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF
FASHION DESIGN AND TEXTILES STUDIES, SCHOOL OF APPLIED
ARTS IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE REQUIREMENT FOR THE
AWARD OF THE HIGHER NATIONAL DIPLOMA IN FASHION
BY
MAVIS NANA AMA DONKOH
07081837
JULY, 2011
2
DECLARATION
I hereby declared that this presentation is the outcome of my research and no other’s, except
references from other sources which have been duely acknowledged.
NAME:
MAVIS NANA AMA DONKOH
INDEX NO:
07081837
SIGNATURE: …………………………….
DATE: ….....................................................
3
CERTIFICATION
The undersigned certify that this project work is the candidates own account of her research
work has been supervised and accessed in accordance with the laid down guidelines of Takoradi
Polytechnic.
SUPERVISOR:
MR.NORBI REINDOLF
Signature: …………………………………………….
Date: ………………………………………………….
HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: MRS. EDINA .J. NYAME-PHILIPS
Signature: ………………………………………………
Date: …………………………………………………….
EXTERNAL EXAMINER: ………………………………….
Signature: ……………………………………………………..
Date: ………………………………………………………….
4
DEDICATION
I dedicate this project to my brothers Mr Benjamin Arthur and Mr Romeo Sackey.
5
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
My first thanks go to the Almighty God for; many are the affliction of the righteous but my God
saw me through all this times.
It is impossible to acknowledge each individual but my grateful thanks go to all family members,
especially my parents Mr and Mrs Donkoh who supported me financially.
My special thanks go to my supervisors Mr Reindorf Norby and Mrs Edna Nyame for their
patience, support and useful suggestions for the completion of this project.
Finally I would thank Miss Damalie Aku Sussie and all my friends who helped me in diverse
ways. Thanks are due to people who to the printed my work.
6
ABSTRACT
The topic for this research “THE USE OF CONTEMPORARY TREND IN DESIGNING
BEACHWEAR FOR THE AVERAGE GHANAIAN LADIES”.
This topic was to design four beachwear garments differentiating between beachwear and
swimwear, also with the use of cotton fabrics to make the garment.
The researcher used observation at the beach and cruise to make the research.
In the course of the research, it was noticed that people used beachwear as swimwear
interchangeably
To identify the best selection of beachwear fabrics and creating new styles of beachwear which
can also be worn to the pool or cruise for ladies.
However, the findings indicate that the use of bright coloured fabrics in designing beachwear can
be created.
7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENT
PAGE
DECLARATION
ii
CERTIFICATION
iii
DEDICATION
iv
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
v
ABSTRACT
vi
List of tables
ix
List of Plates
x
CHAPTER ONE
BACKGROUND OF STUDY
1.0Introduction
1
1.1Statement of the Problem
2
1.2 Objectives
2
1.3Significance of the Study
2
1.4 Delimitation
3
1.5 Limitation
3
1.6Organization of the Study
3
Definition of terms
3
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
4
2.1 History of Beachwear
4-6
8
2.2 History of Swimwear
7
2.3Difference between Beachwear Swimwear
7
2.4History of Cotton Fabrics
9-10
2.5Characteristics of Cotton Fabrics
10
2.6 Colours
12
2.7History of Colour Pink
13-14
2.8History of Lemon Green Colour
14
2.9Colour Symbolism
14
2.10 Factors to Consider When Selecting Fabrics for Beachwear
14
2.11 History of Polka Dot Fabrics
15
CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
Introduction
16
3.1 The Customer Profile
17
3.2 The Theme/Mood Board “Sea Life
18
3.3The Fabric Board
19
3.4 The Style Board
19
3.5 The Design Board
20
9
3.6 Flat Drawing
21
3.7 The Specification Board (Illustration Board)
21
3.8 The Pattern Drafting Process
22
3.9 The Toiling
23
3.10 Correction of patterns
24
3.11 The Laying Out Fabric
25
3.12 The Cutting Out of Fabric
25
3.13 Production/Sewing Process
26
3.14The Finish Garment
27
3.15 The Design Presentation (fashion show)
27
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Introduction
28
4.1 Summary
28
4.2 Conclusion
28
4.3 Recommendation
28
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1
17
Table 2
22
Table 3
24
10
LIST OF PLATES
PAGE
Plates 1a: Customer profile
17
Plates 2b: Mood Board
18
Plates 3c: Fabric Board
19
Plates 4d: Style Board
19
Plates 5e: Design Board
20
Plates 6f: Flat Drawing
20
Plates 7g: Specification Board
21
Plates 8h: Pattern drafting
21
11
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.0 Background of the Study
The topic of women beachwear and swimwear has always been a hot topic of discussion and
very interesting .The trend and styles for women’s beach wear have change years passed.
The idea behind the introduction of swimwear and beachwear was to cover somebody parts of
women who wished to and had the confidence to bath in public.
When Americans started visiting beaches a revolution in beachwear began, and was very
popular, then beachwear which had trousers and a blouse in one piece and a separate skirt to
cover the figure was introduced. This brought about a change in the styles of swimwear for
women where the body was exposed as swimsuit s became smaller and more transparent with the
groin and the breast covered.
Beaches are surely a paradise to unwind you. Beachwear is a costume which one needs to wear
while going to the beach. Cool and smart beachwear adds to the mood and enjoyment.
Beachwear is different from swimwear, but these are certainly not appropriate to wear as
swimwear to the beach. But beachwear falls between a swimwear and full body costume.
All over the world, women love to wear different styles of bikinis which are used for swimming
and look extremely sexy, irrespective of the fact where she is. They are revealing vibrant colours
and are available in different prints. They are also light in weight which enables one to swim
comfortably .But beachwear’s are sometimes in heavy or light weight fabrics, and in colours
which inspires the mood.
12
1.1 Statement of the Problem
The researcher observed the following as the main problem of the study. The misappropriate
use of beachwear among the youth. There is the misinterelated use of swimwear as
beachwear among the youth. There is the fact that a swimsuit should be light as compared to
beachwear. So beachwear should be worn to the beach, because beachers sometimes get
drown because they mistakenly use beachwear in swimming. Designers sometimes on their
part do not use the right texture of fabrics for the preferred beachwear. Inappropriate choice
of design, for beachwear is another factor which needs to be corrected .
1.2 Objectives
1. To identify the best selection of beachwear fabrics.
2. To differentiate between beachwear and swimwear.
3. Finally the study seeks to create new styles of beachwear which can be worn to the pool
or cruise by ladies.
1.3 Significance of the Study
1. The outcome of the study is intended to help the youth or young ladies in wearing the
right garment to the beach.
2. Also the study is to educate the youth on the type, texture and colour of fabric to the
beach.
3. Thirdly the study will help designers to innovate or create new style which will suit the
preference of the youth in recent time.
4. Finally report on the study will serve as a reference book in the library for future use.
13
1.4 Delimitation
1. The project is limited to designing and introducing four new styles of beachwear for
female youth.
2. The researcher seeks to use suitable fabric, cotton fabrics with large polka dot and cotton
stretchy plain fabrics.
1.5 Limitation
1. Also due to financial problem faced, the researcher was not able to conduct enough
interviews about the research work.
1.6 Organization of the Study
The study is organised into four main chapters.
Chapter one involves the background of the study, statement of the problem, objectives of the
study, significance of the study, limitation of the study, delimitation of the study and
organization of the study.
Chapter two highlights on the literature review while chapter three entails the methodology
the researcher used, chapter four involves the summary of findings, conclusion and
recommendations.
DEFINITION OF TERMS
Bikini – Is women’s two peace swimsuit.
Beachers –People who go to the beach or pool.
Contemporary- Living or happens at the same time, of about the same age in the style of the
present times, modern.
Trend - The general course of prevailing tendency.
Camisole- Is a sleeveless undergarment for women, normally extending to the waist. It is usually
made of nylon, cotton
Apparel- This refers to clothing to any covering for the human body that is worn.
Selvedge - The thick edge of a fabric.
14
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
2.0 Introduction
This chapter deals with literature relating to the project topic.
2.1 History of Beachwear
Beachwear is defined by the fashion dictionary as an item of apparel or accessories specifically
worn to the beach or a clothing for wearing at the beach.
Beachwear also called bikinis have become pretty standard summer attire, even as eveningwear:
just throw a shift on over it and you're set for dinner. Naturally, this wasn't always the case,
although the outfit has a varied history: acceptable in ancient Rome, then forbidden in live-action
Disney movies.
The bikini is typically a women's two-piece swim suit. One part of the attire covers upper bodice;
the other the groin, leaving an uncovered area between the two. It is often worn in hot weather,
while swimming or sunbathing. The shapes of both parts of a bikini resemble women's
underwear, and the lower part can range from revealing to briefs.
While two-piece bathing suits had been worn on the beach before, the modern bikini was
invented by French engineer Louis Réard in 1946. He named it after Bikini Atoll in the Pacific,
the site of the Operation Crossroads nuclear weapon tests in July that year
The bikini is perhaps the most popular female beachwear around the globe; according to French
fashion historian Olivier Saillard due to "the power of women, and not the power of fashion". As
he explains, "The emancipation of swimwear has always been linked to the emancipation of
world. By the mid 2000s, bikinis had become a business annually, according to the NPD Group,
a consumer and retail information company.
The groundwork for the modern bikini began to be laid in 1907, when Australian swimmer and
performer was arrested on a Boston beach for wearing a form-fitting one-piece swimsuit, which
15
became an accepted beach attire for women by 1910. In 1913, inspired by the introduction of
women into Olympic swimming, designer Carl Jantzen made the first functional two-piece
swimwear, a close-fitting one-piece with shorts on the bottom and short sleeves on top. By the
1930s, necklines plunged at the back, sleeves disappeared and sides were cut away. With new
materials like latex and nylon, by 1934 the swimsuit started hugging the body and had shoulder
Finally, the modern bikini was introduced by French engineer and fashion designer in Paris in
1946. Heim was working on a new kind of beach costume. It comprised two pieces, the bottom
large enough to cover its wearer's navel. In May 1946, he advertised it as the world's "smallest
bathing suit". Réard named his swimsuit the "bikini", taking the name from the Bikini Atoll, one
of a series of islands in the South Pacific where testing on the new atomic bomb was occurring
that summer. Historians assume Reard termed his swimsuit the "bikini" because he believed its
revealing style would create reactions among people similar to those created by America’s
atomic bomb in Japan just one summer earlier. Réard sliced the top off the bottoms and
advertised it as "smaller than the smallest swimsuit". Réard could not find a model to wear his
design. He ended up hiring MichelineBernardini, a nude dancer from the Casino de Paris. That
bikini, a string bikini with a g-string back of 30 square inches (194 cm2) of cloth with newspaper
type printed across, was introduced on July 5 at Piscine Molitor, a public pool in Paris. Heim's
design was the first worn on the beach, but clothing was given its name by Réard to imagine a
woman combining a bikini and a 1910 bathing costume
Bikini tops come in different styles and cuts, including a halter-style neck that offers more
coverage and support, a strapless bandeau, a rectangular strip of fabric covering the breasts that
minimizes large breasts, a top with cups similar to a push-up bra, and the more traditional
triangle cups that lift and shape the breasts, bikini has spawned many stylistic variations. A
regular bikini is defined as a two pieces of garments that cover the groin and buttocks at the
lower end and the breasts in the upper end. Some bikinis can offer a large amount of coverage,
while other bikinis provide only the barest minimum. Topless variants may still be considered
bikinis, although technically no longer two-piece swimsuit. Along with a variation in designs, the
term bikini was followed by an often hilarious lexicon including the, seekini (transparent bikini),
camikini (camisoletop and bikini bottom) Since fashions of different centuries exist beside one
another in early 21st century, though it is possible amount of coverage they offer, coverage
16
ranging anywhere from complete underwear-style coverage, as in the case of more modest
bottom pieces like briefs, shorts, or briefs with a small skirt-panel attached, to almost full
exposure, as in the case of the thong bikini. Skimpier styles have narrow sides, including V-cut
(in front), French cut (with high-cut sides) and low-cut string (with string sides).In just one major
fashion show in 1985 were two-piece suits with cropped tank tops instead of the usual skimpy
bandeaux, suits that are bikinis in front and one-piece in back, suspender straps, ruffles, and
daring, navel-baring cutouts. Subsequent variations on the theme include the monokini, tankini,
string bikini, thong, slingshot, minimini, teardrop, and micro.
2.1.1 Bikini underwear
Types of underwear worn by both men and women are identified as bikini underwear, similar in
size and revealing nature to the bottom half of a bikini bathing suit. For women, bikini
underwear can refer to virtually any tight, skimpy, or revealing undergarment that provides less
coverage to the midsection than traditional underwear, panties or knickers. For men, a bikini is a
type of undergarment that is smaller and more revealing than men's briefs.
There is evidence of ancient Roman women playing expulsim ludere, an early version of
handball. Female athletes who play beach volleyball professionally usually wear two-pieces.
These bikinis are designed with functionality rather than fashion in mind.
2.1.2 Beach volleyball
In 1994, the bikini became the official uniform of women's Olympic beach volleyball, sparking
controversy, with some sports officials considering it exploitative and unpractical in colder
weather, and athletes admitting that the regulation uniform is intended to be "sexy" and to draw
attention. Dancers, sex appeal and bikinis worn by women players as much as athletic ability
made beach volleyball the fifth largest television audience of all the sports at the Games at Bondi
Beach in Australia in 2000 Olympics.
17
2.1.3 Athletics
Often the women in athletics also wear bikinis, not much larger than in beach volleyball. Amy A
cuff, a US high-jumper, wore a black leather bikini instead of a track suit, at Sydney 2000
Summer Olympics. Runner Florence Griffith-Joyner mixed bikini bottoms with one-legged
tights in Seoul 1988 Summer Olympics, which earned her more attention than her record
breaking in Women's 200 meters.
2. 2 History of Swimwear
Garment for recreational bathing that originated about 1865 and consisted of knee-length dresses
and ankle-length pants in woven fabrics might most accurately be called bathing dress.
The encumbering nature of these garment meant that women could do little more than get wet,
they could not swim. Around 1880 a combination garment was made in one piece with top, pants
and skirt. Bathing dress grew less voluminous and by the mid 1920s terminology changed, with
bathing suits, such as the tank top suit being accepted for the beach. From then until about 1940
all bathing suits were made of knitted fabrics, preferably wool jersey, and by the late 1930s two
piece suits and elasticized bathing suits were adopted. Designer’s type suits of woven fabrics
were popular in the 1940s and first Bikinis appeared at Mediterranean resorts.
2.3 Difference between Beachwear and Swimwear
Swimwear
Swimwear is a functional product. It gained it fashion reputation when companies such as Rose
Marie Reid Cole of California gave it a new look in the 1950s.The swimwear depict a styling
that was inventive as that demanded by other segment of the women’s fashion industry and with
fabrics, colors and trim that showed a new enthusiasm. A different life began for the swimsuit.
18
It was no longer classified as the “bathing suit” with that single connotation. It was formed into a
fashion item with pizzazz and glamour.
The swimsuit uses fabrics such as lame metallic, lace, velvets and sequined lycras which became
significant. As with other fashion entries, the swimsuits styling and fabrics use changes to meet
the demands of the market.
To give it the ultimate fashion image swimsuits are generally in light weight fabrics.
Beachwear
The bikini has spawned many stylistic variations. A regular bikini is defined as a two pieces of
garments that cover the groin and buttocks at the lower end and the breasts in the upper end.
Some bikinis can offer a large amount of coverage, while other bikinis provide only the barest
minimum. Topless variants may still be considered bikinis, although technically no longer twopiece swimsuit. Along with a variation in designs, the term bikini was followed by an often
hilarious lexicon including the, seekini (transparent bikini), camikini (camisole top and bikini
bottom) Since fashions of different centuries exist beside one another in early 21st century,
though it is possible amount of coverage they offer, coverage ranging anywhere from complete
underwear-style coverage, as in the case of more modest bottom pieces like briefs, shorts, or
briefs with a small skirt-panel attached, to almost full exposure, as in the case of the thong bikini.
Skimpier styles have narrow sides, including V-cut (in front), French cut (with high-cut sides)
and low-cut string (with string sides).In just one major fashion show in 1985 were two-piece
suits with cropped tank tops instead of the usual skimpy bandeaux, suits that are bikinis in front
and one-piece in back, suspender straps, ruffles, and daring, navel-baring cutouts. Subsequent
variations on the theme include the monokini, tankini, string bikini, thong, slingshot, minimini,
teardrop, and micro. To imagine a woman combining a bikini and a 1910 bathing costume
Bikini tops come in different styles and cuts, including a halter-style neck that offers more
coverage and support, a strapless bandeau, a rectangular strip of fabric covering the breasts that
minimizes large breasts, a top with cups similar to a push-up bra, and the more traditional
triangle cups that lift and shape the breasts. Bikini bottoms vary in style and cut and in the bikini
have spawned many stylistic variations. A regular bikini is defined as a two pieces of garments
19
that cover the groin and buttocks at the lower end and the breasts in the upper end. Some bikinis
can offer a large amount of coverage, while other bikinis provide only the barest minimum.
Topless variants may still be considered bikinis, although technically no longer two-piece
swimsuit. Along with a variation in designs, the term bikini was followed by an often hilarious
lexicon including the, seeking (transparent bikini), camikini (camisole top and bikini bottom)
Since fashions of different centuries exist beside one another in early 21st century, though it is
possible amount of coverage they offer, coverage ranging anywhere from complete underwearstyle coverage, as in the case of more modest bottom pieces like briefs, shorts, or briefs with a
small skirt-panel attached, to almost full exposure, as in the case of the thong bikini. Skimpier
styles have narrow sides, including V-cut (in front), French cut (with high-cut sides) and low-cut
string (with string sides).In just one major fashion show in 1985 were two-piece suits with
cropped tank tops instead of the usual skimpy bandeaux, suits that are bikinis in front and onepiece in back, suspender straps, ruffles, and daring, navel-baring cutouts. Subsequent variations
on the theme include the monokini, tankini, string bikini, thong, slingshot, minimini, teardrop,
and micro.
2.4 History of Cotton Fabrics
Cotton is the most prevalent fiber in the world. Renowned for its breathability, strength and
versatility. Derived in name from the Arabic “qutn”, cotton grows in a round boll around the
seeds of the cotton plant, a thorned shrub belonging to the Malvaceae family of the genus
Gossypium. Cotton is believed to have been first cultivated and spun by the Indus Valley
Civilization around 4,000 B.C.
India fell from prominence in cotton production by the 18th Century as the Industrial Revolution
in Europe greatly increased cotton processing and the East India Company increasingly relied on
India merely as a source of the raw material. Automated processes for separating the cotton boll
from its barbed enclosure were greatly improved with the development of the cotton gin by Eli
Whitney in 1793. Cotton fabric began to be produced almost exclusively in Northern Europe.
Today, cotton production is a billion-dollar industry. The incorporation of cotton is used in
everything from personal hygiene products to hospital blankets. While the United States had
historically been the world’s leading producer of cotton, today that title is held by China, which
20
produces over 7.6 million tons of cotton annually. Cotton requires a sunny environment with
moderate rainfall and little frost, resulting in large amounts of cotton grown in India.
Its fibers are highly porous, making cotton clothing light and breathable, but able to be woven
into any desired density. This quality also enables cotton fabric to be dyed easily, making it a
natural choice for designers. Cotton fabric is available in a plentitude of varieties, such as
supremely soft and luxurious Sea Island and Pima cotton, rugged and durable corduroy,
industrial strength canvas, light and chic voile and organdy, and lustrous sateen and velvet.
Cotton fabric is especially soft and pleasing to the touch; and, since it is derived naturally, those
with sensitive skin are able to wear the fiber without any adverse reactions. Cotton is also a
fabric that responds well to sewing: it has a slight give, but is not difficult to handle, like spandex
or lira. Its drape conforms well to the curves of the body, which makes it a brilliant choice for
women’s garments. Cotton fabric is also a hugely popular choice for undergarments: it naturally
wicks away moisture while retaining breathability. Cotton does not require the maintenance of
silk or other fabrics: it does not need to be dry-cleaned and will not be ruined in a rainstorm.
However, because the cotton fibers are so porous, shrinkage of the material is a possibility.
It is always recommended to wash cotton first before beginning any sewing endeavor. For
beginners and experts alike, cotton fabric is a natural choice for fine garments, dresses, pants,
shirts, baby clothing, and any other project requiring a gentle touch and long-lasting wear ability.
2.5 Characteristics of Cotton Fabrics
2.5.1 Comfort and Protection
1. Whereas other fibers may be selected to rival in one or more aspect of protected, cotton is
unsurpassed in combining comfort with protection.
2. Most of the comfort-related properties (but not all) are derived from cotton's inherent fiber
structure, “by nature.
3. Most protection-related properties (but not all) are added in manufacturing, “by design”
21
2.5.2 By Nature
This refers to a fabric's ability to transmit water vapor away from the body. As we exercise, the
moisture produced by our bodies needs to evaporate and cool us. The amount of moisture that
collects between our skin and the fabrics than with, say, polyester. We can stay comfortable in
clothing for longer times because it takes longer for the same amount of water vapor to
accumulate in this microclimate on the skin. The micro porous structure provides many routes
for the water vapor to escape to the atmosphere.
2.5.3 Absorbent
This refers to a fabric's ability to remove liquid water from the skin like a towel. This is required
by slightly more extreme conditions of exercise or climate. Is hydrophilic; it wets easily, and
holds much more water than synthetic fibers do. But only the amount of water held that's
important, but the speed and force with which a moisture is removed from the body and
transmitted to the air around us. The size and distribution of the pores, or capillaries, between
and within fibers are uniquely suited for this purpose. Other fibers, such as viscose rayon, may
surpass in the amount of water they can hold, but it's difficult to imagine their successful use in
towels!
2.5.4Texture
Fibers are naturally convoluted, or bulked. This serves to trap air within the structure. The air
contained between fibers and within them gives thermal insulation: protection from heat in
summer and cold in winter. These convolutions plus the tapered fiber ends also hold away from
the skin, adding to the amount of air trapped and contributing to insulation and the perception of
comfort.
2.5.5 Stretch
Although stretch is an inherent property of knitted fabrics, the term is now normally applied to
knitted or woven fabrics containing from about 2 to 5% spandex yarns. Typically, this provides
50 to 100% stretch for knits and 20 to 35% stretch in woven fabrics .Detailed processing
techniques.
22
2.5.6 Water Resistance
Resistance to wind and rain can be readily achieved in fabrics by a combination of construction
and finish. Very tight, dense constructions combined with water-repellent finishes provide
clothing with these properties. Common finishes for this purpose include fluorochemicals, which
are generally known by trade names such as Teflon, Scotchgard or Repeal. Such finishes can be
applied while still maintaining the breathability and water vapor transport properties.
The nature of fabrics especially cotton fabrics are cool to wear to the beach. The style of garment
been made.
2.6 Colours
Colours are universal and throughout the ages, many different colors have been associated with
different religious and occasional meaning. One aspect of colours holds true in every corner of
the world. The colors we choose are not abituaury but hold personal meaning for us. We
definitely have colours that “attract us” and other colours we cannot stand to wear or have
around us. The colours chosen deliberate carefully selected and have personal meaning to us as
an expression of who we are and where we are going.
The colours we choose to adorn our body and personal spaces have a lot to offer in the way the
personal insight about what is going on inside our inner most thought, feeling and emotion. The
designer having knowing this choose the colours “pink” and “green” to compliment to garment.
2.7 History of Colour Pink
Colour Theory has been explored by scientists and artists for hundreds of years. Colour theory is
all about explaining how we as humans perceive colour and the phenomenon of color. These
color theorists used all kinds of shapes to explain color; the color wheel, the colour pyramid, and
the color cube amongst others.
There are many scientific theories as to how our bodies have evolved the way that it has.
Scientists theorize that we as humans evolved to be able to see color to make us better hunters in
23
the monotone world of the green forest or jungle. So the perception of colour is part of what
separates us from animals and puts us comfortably at the top of the food chain.
Back in the 1800s, the idea of color therapy was put forward, possibly by the same doctors who
advocated bleeding and the use of leeches. Colour therapists thought that patients who bathed in
a certain colour of light could heal physical and psychological ailments. Colour therapy died
when antibiotics came out and most people realized that the idea of being healed by colored light
was just bunk.
It is this writer's belief that a book could be written about every one of the major colors in the
colour wheel. There is a cultural and psychological that could be examined and explored in
comparison to major events and trends of the day. For example, the colour has been accepted as
a baby girl colour and is still the balloon colour of choice for proud parents who want to
announce the birth of their baby girl
Colours during the World War II the Nazis used a colour- & shape-coded system to keep track of
their prisoners. Jews were given a yellow star of David to wear to identify them. Homosexuals
were given inverted triangle, which is also half a star of David. During WWII, the colour would
not have had a feminine or masculine association. It is my theory that the association of as a
feminine colour began with the use of the triangle back in the twentieth century by Nazi
Germany. The association with homosexuality could have changed or morphed into representing
the feminine during this time.
But it is clear that the gender identification of color began in the 20th century. Perhaps a hundred
years from now or two hundred years from now the color itself will mean something else as we
as humans assign it a new identity and purpose.
2.8 History of Colour Green
The colour lemon is a representation of the outer skin of a lemon. It is sometimes misinterpreated
as yellow or neon colour. The first recorded use of lime green as a colour name in English was in
1905. This colour is the colour of lime and lemon cool acid.There are lots of green cocktails,
ranging in colour from the palest tourquoise to emerald. It was originated in the Punjab region of
24
Pakistan, more or less rough ,thick and dotted with oil. Three more yellows were developed from
“Vauquelins” element. They are all chrome colours, tended to turn greenish in oil .
2. 9 Colour Symbolism
Is the use of colours to represent symbol in various traditional, cultural or religious ideas,
concept, or feelings or to evoke physical reactions.
Lemon Green Colour
Colours cannot only affect your mood and energy, wearing green will give a reflect imagination
and feeling of alive and enjoyment. The colour also make some people angry and can be
overwehelming if used too often.Perhaps this because yellow can be associated with lemon
green.This colour is sometimes considered the holy colour by the moslems.
Pink Colour
The colour pink usually serve two purposes. It can be used to show childish, also considered a
colour of good health and life. The colour pink has profound impact on the wearer ,because is a
colour of happiness. Pink is sometimes refered to as ”the colour of love”
2.10 Factors to Consider When Selecting Fabrics and Colours for Beachwear
The nature and texture of fabrics shd be considered, especially cotton fabrics are cool wear to the
beach. The style of the garment been made. The choice of colour been used in designing, bright
colours is preferred.
25
2.11 History of Polka Dot Fabrics
Dots in patterns have been around for centuries. In medieval times, dotted patterns were
considered reminiscent of disease and were rarely used for clothing. It was also nearly
impossible to create evenly spaced patterns of dots without using a machine, and couldn't be
produced without creating an uneven blotchy appearance. This probably had quite a bit to do
with the distaste of dots during that period.
Over time people's attitudes changed and by the middle 1850s, dotted fabric was considered to
be quite fashionable and names such as "Dotted-Swiss", Quinconce, and Thalertupfen were
given to dotted designs (depending on the language).
How did a European dance and colorful circles become linked? During the middle 1850s, the
same period that dotted had become widespread. The dance quickly spread through Europe and
then crossed the Pacific to the United States. One of the earliest uses of the term as a design was
in 1873 in Godey's magazine and the leading theory is that both dancing polka and dotted
clothing (especially dresses) polka were popular at the time and presumably people wore clothes
with dots dances. The two became connected, and the term was born “polka dot”. Over time, the
craze faded, but the dots remained.
They remained highly popular during the early and middle 20th century and in 1928 reached new
heights with the introduction of Disney's Minnie Mouse, who wore clothes covered with dots. In
fact, Minnie Mouse was so popular that many people thought that Walt Disney invented at least
the term. Dotted items had become so popular that in 1936 a designer actually tried to copyright
dots she failed, and designers around the world continued to use the colored circles.
The most famous being the 1961 hit by Brian Hyland, "Itsy Bitsy Teenie Weenie Yellow Bikini"
in polka dot fabrics.
As a style, they have waxed and waned over the years, but nowadays nearly anything can be
found covered with bright and festive dots these days, from clothing to sheets to cell phone cases
to mugs. Admittedly, decorating completely in dots can be a bit much, but a few touches here
and there can add a bit of fun and color to a stylish outfit or a room.
26
CHAPTER THREE
METHODOLOGY
3.0 Introduction
Chapter three deals with the method, processes and techniques used in the making up of beach
wear dress; a dress which is worn for attending beaches or holiday cruises. In making-up the
dress, the researcher used printed and plain cotton stretchy fabrics. The design process includes,
The Design Process
3.1 Customer Profile
3.2 Mood Board
3.3 Fabric /Trimmings Board
3.4 Style Board
3.5 Design Board
3.6 Flat Drawing
3.7 Specification Sheet
3.8 Pattern Drafting (1/5 Scale measurement)
3.9 Toil Production
3.10Correction of patterns
3.11Laying out
3.12Cutting out
3.13Production Plan/Sewing Process
3.14Finishing Process
3.15Exhibition and fashion show
27
Material, Tools and Equipment
Table 1 Materials
Nos. Materials
1
Chip board
2
Pictures from internet
3
Uses
Snapped pictures were pasted on it
It was used for production mood
board
It was used for pasting pictures
Glue
Market Research
During the research the designer targets a particular to design for. Here the age ranges, colour,
activities, status are considered before designing for the customers. With this research the focus
was on young outgoing ladies in tertiary institution or graduators in such institution.
3.1 The Customer Profile
This gives a short account of a persons name , demography and career and the extent to which
the customer attract notice.
This board contains a customer with very high expectation in life. The board contains some
information which helped the designer to design to suit the occasion.
Below is the customer profile of the model.
Plate1a
.
28
3.2
The Theme/Mood Board “Sea Life”
Mood is the temporary state of mind or spirit at a particular time. It further states that the very
mood one finds his/her self in brings about the particular ideas in mind. These ideas are
expressed on a paper surface by using pencil, pen, colour, chalk to get a name. The mood board
was done by getting different pictures of sea life under sea plants or creatures, and arranging
them in nice way. This was used as inspiration, with the theme “spikes”. Motifs were picked
from the mood board and were developed into different interesting motifs in designing of the
beachwear dress.
Plate1b
29
3.3 The Fabric Board
This board contains all fabrics used in making the garment The designer organized, swatches of
all fabric that comprises the design was pasted on the design board. It also has the trimmings,
notions used to produce the garment is pasted on the board.
Plate 1c
3.4
The Style Board
Style board is the next stage in the designing process. This is the stage where variations of shapes
selected from the motif board was used to produce various styles to look attractive. In the styling
process the researcher created several styles for which four (4) were selected for the final work.
Plate 1d
30
3.5 The Design Board
This is the major stage among the processes and it consist of specific styles chosen from the style
board after several analysis. Oxford dictionary defines design as intended arrangement of
material to produce certain result or effect. This is the stage where the researcher made several
drawings and chose the best four (4) design from the style and it was drawn on a chip board,
showing the front and back views of the design in relation to the colours of each design
.Accessories, make-ups and hair styles are applied in detail of design.
Plate1e
3.6 Flat Drawing
This board contains the sketches of the final design. It involves all the detailed designs in straight
lines. The designs are drawn on a white sheet which shows both the front and back view of the
four designs. The designs are drawn with pencil and later outlined with black pen.
Plate1f
Plate1g
31
3.7 The Specification Board (Illustration Board)
This is the stage where every design is specified on the design board. The process involves
details of how many pieces of costume will be required. It has been completed using working
drawing in sketch book to promote and present the design. The board shows the flat drawing of
the design both front and back view of the final design. It shows the specification drawing of the
pattern pieces which was drafted through the adaptation of the basic block. The one-fifth scale
was used for the adaptation. Grain lines are clearly marked in the direction in which the pattern
will be cut.
The designer added all pattern information and instruction are clearly indicated on each pattern.
Plate1h
32
3.8 The Pattern Drafting
Materials, Tool, and Equipment Required
Nos.
1
Table 2 Material Required
Materials
Uses
Tape measure
Used taking body measurement
and for marking out
2
Eraser
3
Brown paper
4
5
French curve
Tracing wheel
6
Paper cutting scissors
7
8
Pins
Pencil
9
Used for cleaning unwanted
marks
Used for drafting and adapting of
patterns
Used for shaping curves
Used for transferring of pattern
marking
Used for cutting out brown
papers
Used for pining patterns together
Used for marking
Meter Rule
Used for marking straight line
Plate1i
33
The Sample Pattern
The body measurements of models were in the contraction of the pattern. Drafting provides the
flat patterns which will be used in cutting out the fabric; the style is first drafted on brown paper
by using basic block for the adaption of the final pattern. All pattern information and instruction
were indicated on the final pattern to guide, laying, cutting, and marking up. The body
measurement was first taken to draft basic dress block.
Measurements used in the construction of pattern are:
Bust ……………………………………………….88cm
Waist………………………………………………71cm
Across back………………………………………..38cm
Across front………………………………………..38.5cm
Nape to waist……………………………………….46cm
Should to natural waist……………………………..43cm
Dress ……………………………………………….99cm
Arm scye……………………………………………21cm
3.9 The Toiling
Toiling is used in obtaining a sample of the desired pattern or design. It served as a first fitting
for the model and helps to correct all faults on the designs.
How Toling is Done






Preparation of fabric for toiling
The final pattern obtained is place on toiling fabric.
The fabric is cut out according to the piece made.
The cut out fabric was sewn with some details.
The sample garment was then fitted on the model, to see the effect.
Correction was done on the sample patterns to be used for the patterns.
34
3.10 Correction of Patterns
After all corrections have been made on the sample patterns, they were retraced on a different
sheet of paper with the necessary pattern information and instructions. These were used to cut
the fashion fabric. The pattern pieces also contained construction detail such as darts, pleat seam
allowance which had been clearly marked and used, cut to makes design.
Garment Assemble
Tools and Materials Required
Table 3 Tools and Materials
Tools and Materials
Uses
Fabric Scissor
It was used for cutting out fabric
Sewing Machine
It was used for sewing the garments
Tailors Chalk
It was used for marking and identification
purposes
Pins and Needles
It was used for tacking and hemming
Tape Measure
It was used for measurement taken and
ruling straight lines
Thread
It was used for stitching and hemming
Neatening Machine
It was used for neatening raw edges of the
dress
Iron board and Steaming
It was used for ironing and pressing
Tracing wheel
It was used for transferring marks into the
fabric
Lining fabric
It was used as an interface for the garment
Vilene
It was used to fuse some part of the
garment
The Fabric Preparation
At this stage the designer checked for stains, holes, fluffy surface of the fabric was also carried
out. The fabric was pressed to remove creases from the fabric.
35
3.11 Laying Out the Fabric
The pattern was also assembled to know the first pattern to be placed in the right
direction .To get accurate and efficiency of pattern.

The fabric was laid on a working table with right sides facing. The pattern pieces were
arranged on the fabric. Big pattern were placed first, grain placement was checked so that
the pieces will not tilt out of position whiles the pattern is being pinned.

The fabric was pinned along the selvedge.
Plate1j
3.12 Cutting Out of Fabric
Cutting of fabric was done using fabric shears. While cutting, the fabric was kept flat on the
working surface by place one hand on it and cutting with the other hand. Long strokes were used
in the directions of the fabric grain and short strokes for curves. Patterns were cut one after the
other before transferring the marking to the fabric. This helps assembling garment.
36
3.13 The Production ( Sewing Process)
1. Press fusible on fabrics part necessary and transfer the darts from the pattern to the fabric.
2. Neaten raw edges of garment pieces
3. Stitch darts on front and back and press them toward the centre.
4. Apply same process to the lining.
5. Sew facing of garment together and top stitch.
6. Pin and sew tucks in the skirt and press.
7. Join front of the blouse to the back firmly with a stitch together n press firmly
8. Join skirt to the bodice to form a dress. Open seams, press seams down
9. Sew side seams together, press and neaten them
10. Neaten, over locking and hemming of the dress was done to complete the garment
11. The same sewing process is applied to shorts, attach facing, join front and back together
respectively
12. Neaten raw edges and join two legs of the shorts together. Press seam open
.
Plate 1k
37
3.14 The Finished Garment
The designer pressed garment on the wrong side of the fabric with press piece fabric. Steam
press was used most during the production of garment. Damp cloth was during pressing the right
side of the garment and press each construction detail was completely pressed.
Plates 1l
3.15 The Design Presentation (fashion show)
The projected design which formed one of four designs displayed at a fashion show.
Plate1m
38
CHAPTER FOUR
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
4.1 Summary
The main aim of this project is to differentiate between beachwear and swimwear and the use of
the right fabrics in creating new styles amongst the youth. The research work has been designed
to cover the various areas which include beachwear and swim suit, history of beachwear, laying
out of fabrics, cutting and making up, using best methods for efficiency. The study also gives
suitable explanation of colours for beach to create the mood at the beach.
4.2 Conclusion
The study results indicate that a new trend of beachwear styles could be made to distinguish
between beachwear and swimwear. The use of bright coloured fabric in designing beachwear
could be innovated.
4.3 Recommendations
Having completed the research on the following recommendation are worth implementing,
1. Designers must use bright coloured fabrics in designing beachwear.
2. Students should be thought now to choose fabrics for the right occasion.
3. The study of designing skill should be encouraged amongst students to create new
designs into existence.
39
BIBLIOGRAPHY
REFRENCES
Aldrich Winifred (1986), Metric Pattern Cutting for women Fourth Edition, Black well
publishing LTD. 7600 Garsing Road , Oxford Oxy 2DQ , Uk. (1989).
Oxford English Dictionary, Thesaurus, and Word Power Guide, Oxford University Press.
(2003, 2007)
The Fair Child – Dictionary of Fashion by Carlotte Mankey Calasibetta, Phyllis Tortora- 3rd
Edition.(1998).
Fashion Apparel, Accessories, and Home Furnishings by Jay Diamond and Elle Diamond- 1st
Edition p-cm ( 2007).
Cooklin G., “Pattern Grading For Women’s Clothes” , Holland Publishers LTD. (1990)
WEBSITES
www. Google.com (1999)
h t t p // google. Ask(1985)
htttp//wwu.google.com .gh(1961)
Yahoo.com (1990)
En.wikipedia.org/wiki/(2007)
40
APPENDIX
Plate1n
Plate1o
Plate1p
`
41