I've come across a problem while writing my story: since it doesn't take place in modern times - actually, it's more or less a fantasy story - I'm having a hard time creating clothes for my characters. I know that since it's a fantasy, it allows for a lot of creativity and freedom, but for some reason, whenever I sit down to start sketching an idea, I end up feeling like I'm copying some art that I might've seen or looked at for inspiration. Are there any good tips for designing character outfits? Maybe I'm just trying too hard. I know I draw a lot of original things, but they all have some kind of Japanese/kimono spin on them since I'm really into that stuff. That's not what I'm looking for in my story, though.
I am wondering if clothes are important to your story? In real life, clothes are not important usually, except for defining SOME characters (like the rich girls like Scarlett O'Hara), but honestly, they were just described to amplify the character of the story. So think on this, is it really important?
Secondly, your readers have to relate to the clothes and understand them, so don't get highly fanciful, it will probably take away from your story.
Most stories I read clothing is a very minor point in the stories.
Designing character outfits for a fantasy story can be a fun and creative process. If you're feeling stuck or finding it difficult to come up with original ideas, here are some tips that might help:
1. Research: Start by gathering inspiration from various sources. Look into historical clothing from different time periods and cultures. Explore artwork, fashion magazines, and even visit museums or browse online collections. This will help you expand your knowledge and understanding of different clothing styles, fabrics, and colors.
2. World-building: Consider the world you have created for your story. Think about the climate, geography, culture, and social structure. These factors can heavily influence clothing choices. For example, a desert-dwelling civilization might wear loose and lightweight clothing to protect themselves from the sun.
3. Character Personality and Role: Understand your characters' personalities, roles, and backgrounds. A character's outfit can reflect their personality traits and their place within the story. A confident and powerful character might wear bold, structured clothing, while a more introverted character could be dressed in softer, understated garments.
4. Mix and Match: Don't be afraid to combine different elements from various cultures or time periods to create something unique. Take inspiration from different parts of the world and blend them together. Experiment with different cuts, patterns, and accessories to create a distinctive look.
5. Sketch and Iterate: Allow yourself to sketch multiple ideas and iterations. Start with rough sketches to explore different shapes and silhouettes. Then refine the details and experiment with patterns, textures, and colors. Give yourself permission to make mistakes and learn from them.
6. Collaborate or Seek Feedback: If you have artist friends or writing communities, consider sharing your character designs and ideas with them. Getting feedback and different perspectives can be helpful in finding fresh inspiration and identifying any unintentional similarity to existing works.
Remember, creating original character outfits is a journey of exploration and self-expression. Embrace the freedom of fantasy and let your imagination guide you. And most importantly, don't be too hard on yourself - creativity takes time, and with practice, you'll develop your own unique style.