Strokes of Genius: Designer Sketches on Vogue.fr

How does a design idea become reality? Start with a sketch, of course. We examine original drawings from some of the world's greatest designers, that could be termed works of art in themselves.
|

By Hannah Jack

How does a design idea become reality? Start with a sketch, of course. We examine original drawings from some of the world's greatest designers, that could be termed works of art in themselves. From stand-out looks for the Fall/Winter 2013-2014 shows to one-off pieces for the biggest stars in the world, this is fashion in the making.

Strokes of Genius: Designer Sketches on Vogue.fr
Claire Waight Keller for the Duchess of Cambridge(01 of08)
Open Image Modal
Claire Waight Keller dreamt up a flowing, carefree collection of lightweight dresses and billowing blouses for her first Chloécollection last Spring. This dainty pale pink dress, inspired by the collection, was designed for the nation's sweetheart, Katherine Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge.
Valentino Fall/Winter 2013-2014 collection(02 of08)
Open Image Modal
Design duo Maria Grazia Chiuri and Pier Paolo Picciolo behind fashion power house Valentino looked to the renowned Vermeer masterpiece, Girl With a Pearl Earring, for inspiration for their Fall/Winter 2013-2014 collection. The flowery prints and lace collars accessorized by wide hair bands exude 17th century charm.
Peter Dundas for Rita Ora(03 of08)
Open Image Modal
Emilio Pucci creative designer Peter Dundas not only designed the stage costumes for Beyoncé's The Mrs Carter Show World Tour, but also the outfits for Rita Ora's British Radioactive Tour that started earlier this year, hitting London this month. The fiesty pop princess is ready for the crowds in Dundas' fierce silver armour dress.
Nina Ricci Fall/Winter 2013-2014 (04 of08)
Open Image Modal
Peter Copping created this dainty sketch of the Nina Ricci woman for the Fall/Winter 2013-2014 season, dressing her in a head-to-toe refined red and arming her for winter with matching fingerless long gloves. The wide black headband and bow detailing add a romantic touch.
Frida Giannini for Florence Welch(05 of08)
Open Image Modal
Frida Giannini, Gucci creative director, dressed British musician Florence Welch for her 2011 North American tour and will once again collaborate with the artist for her upcoming US and European Florence + the Machine tour. Inspired by Florence's "dark glamour and dramatic sensuality" this beautiful, black floor-sweeping gown is just one of a dozen pieces created for the tour by the Italian designer.
Elie Saab Fall/Winter 2013-2014(06 of08)
Open Image Modal
A stand-out look from the Elie SaabFall/Winter 2013-2014 show. His brand has become synonymous with grace, Elie Saab produced this elegant long, black lace and tulle evening dress that exudes elegance.
Iris Van Herpen for Lady Gaga(07 of08)
Open Image Modal
Known the world over for her eccentric style, Lady Gaga joined forces with her favorite Dutch - and equally experimental - designer Iris Van Herpen for the launch of her Fame perfume last September. She paired the black sculptural piece with jaw dropping platforms and matching eye mask, naturally.
Riccardo Tisci for Rihanna(08 of08)
Open Image Modal
Hand-picked by international pop sensation Rihanna, Givenchy great and costume genius Riccardo Tisci designed her stage outfits for the Diamonds World Tour, turning to his menswear collection for this Fall/Winter for inspiration. Underneath the embellished gothic-style cape, the matching shorts and crop top, complete with thigh-high lace up black boots, ooze 'bad girl'.