From Sketch to Runway

The Initial Inspiration

Every great collection begins with inspiration. For Contrasté’s latest line, the creative process was deeply rooted in the exploration of natural beauty and modern sophistication. The design team looked to the world around them—drawing influence from organic shapes, textures, and the delicate balance of nature.

“We wanted to create something that felt both timeless and contemporary, a collection that could seamlessly transition through seasons while remaining rooted in sustainability,” explains the head designer. The theme of the collection revolved around fluidity, where pieces could move gracefully with the body, reflecting the effortless beauty of nature itself.

The First Sketches

Once the team had a clear vision, the design process began. The designers begin with hand-drawn sketches, which is where the true creativity unfolds. These initial designs serve as a blueprint, mapping out the silhouettes, fabrics, and overall concept of the collection.

“Sketching is an essential part of our creative process,” says the senior designer. “It’s a way for us to express our ideas quickly and visually, and it’s always exciting to see how a simple idea can evolve into something that will be worn by so many people.”

During this stage, the team experiments with different shapes, colors, and textures to create pieces that align with the brand’s aesthetic—sleek, sophisticated, and eco-conscious. The sketches evolve through various iterations, refining details such as the fit, neckline, and overall proportions.

Fabric Selection and Material Sourcing

Once the sketches are finalized, it’s time to choose the right materials. At Contrasté, sustainability is a key part of our design philosophy, and fabric selection plays a crucial role in that. We seek out organic materials, recycled textiles, and innovative sustainable fabrics to ensure that each piece is not only beautiful but environmentally friendly.

“We are passionate about using materials that have a minimal impact on the planet,” says the fabric sourcing manager. “For this collection, we used organic cotton, recycled polyester, and plant-based dyes to stay true to our sustainable vision.”

The fabric selection process is detailed and thoughtful. Each material is carefully examined for quality, texture, and sustainability, and only the finest fabrics make it into the collection.

Creating the Prototype

With the materials selected, the next step is turning the sketches into prototypes. This phase brings the designs to life, allowing the team to test the fit, comfort, and overall look of each piece.

The pattern makers and seamstresses begin their work, taking the sketches and creating initial garment samples. These prototypes are carefully fitted and adjusted to ensure the right proportions and perfect tailoring. During this phase, the design team assesses the construction and makes any necessary changes to improve the garment’s fit or appearance.