Design Development Week

I was wondering when the real design work would come. 
This was a follow on from a task ( which I've named Construction 1) we had done a few days prior - whereby we had to create an abstract shape, cut out at least 20 copy's of the pattern of various scale and size before using those cut outs to construct a collection of garments on a mannequin.
Task 1 required us to do quick, timed drawings of clothing and the various aspects of say a top, for example the sleeves, the collar, pockets etc, using another shape that derived from the shape used in Construction 1. I chose to use an arch. I think the fact that this task was done around time constraints and because it turned into a competition as how many variation of say a top could be done within the set amount of time given it made the task the most difficult for me especially as I have a retarded understanding of time. 2 minutes to me is 15 minutes so it was challenging. However, after the first few sessions I sped up a bit. It's not always about trying to come up with the most professional and intricate piece. Some of the most exquisite catwalk collections especially from designers such as the late Alexander McQueen derived from the most basic of drawings and fueled by the things all around him, eras and imagination. I find myself always wanting to fly before I can even crawl. 

Task 2 was to compose a selection of garments: 5 tops to 5 dresses using the timed sketches. 

Task 3 which was to be presented on Friday was to devise a 5 piece collection with technical drawings using all the information gathered from the past 2 tasks.

I found the comments left by the rest of the students in my group as we went around viewing each other's work so kind and encouraging but there was a sense of disappointment overshadowing all that positive feedback on my 5 piece collection. I realised that most of the comments were celebrating my illustrations/ drawing techniques and not the designs themselves. Red flag. I don't want to be viewed as a fashion illustrator because that not what I want to be but that was what my work was portraying. This was a difficult realisation but luckily realised earlier than later. I'm been too comfortable with my drawing abilities that I've suppressed my designing abilities which I'm now finding difficult to revamp. It's such a frustrating position to suddenly find out that I'm in. Once again I'm questioning my career choice, my capability and if I'll even be able to get to where I want to as fashion designer if at this day and age I'm struggling to design a basic 5 piece collection. There's just that added pressure of being told that with the career path I have chosen, I must start from young. But the good news is that this experience has only confirmed my desire to a fashion designer and has outlined what it is I need to do from now on in order to achieve my goal.


Things to improve : the proportions of my illustrations in order to provide a realistic view on how my garments will look on a real body.