CONVERTIBLE GOWNS

ONUORA EMMANUELLA CHINONONYELUM

ART/109180075

A PROJECT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF FASHION

DESIGN AND CLOTHING TECHNOLOGY, SCHOOL OF ART AND
INDUSTRIAL DESIGN, AUCHI POLYTECHNIC, AUCHI.

IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE

AWARD OF NATIONAL DIPLOMA (ND) IN FASHION DESIGN
AND CLOTHING

FEBRUARY, 2021
 CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that this project study titled “Construction of three ways

gown” is the original work carried out by ONUORA EMMANUELLA

CHINONONYELUM with Mat. No. Art/109180075 and meet the requirements

for the award of National Diploma (ND) in Fashion Design and Clothing

Technology in the Department of Fashion Design and Clothing Technology,

School of Art and Industrial Design, Auchi Polytechnic, Auchi, Edo State.

_________________ _______________
Mr. Osagie Date
Project Supervisor

________________ _______________
Dr. RoselineKenth-Onah Date
Head of Department
 DEDICATION

This project work is dedicated to God Almighty who is the giver of life,

wisdom, knowledge and understanding, who in his infinite mercies show me love

and care during my academic years in school, and to my wonderful gift parents

Mr. & Mrs. Onuora, for their financial support, advice, care, love and deep-rooted

interest in my educational life as a token of my appreciation.

 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I am sincerely grateful to God Almighty for His protection, guidance and

sustenance granted to me throughout this programme.
I specially appreciate my project supervisor, Mr. Osagie for his relentless
correction of my manuscripts, suggestion, conservative criticism and valuable
advice not excluding her support, patience, kindness and care. I also appreciate
all the Lecturers in the Department of Fashion Design and Clothing Technology,
for their friendliness and contribution in my life. May their knowledge be
beneficial to us. May God bless you all.
Most profoundly, I want to express my appreciation to my beloved
parents, Mr. and Mrs. Onuora, I am forever grateful, for giving me hope in life.
Finally, I deeply appreciate the efforts of my friends, course mate, sibling,
uncles and aunties, May God reward you all abundantly and according to His
riches in glory in Jesus name. Amen.
ABSTRACT

The study intends to establish the importance of a reversible gown in a

fashion industry. clothing is one of the basic necessities in the life, current
fashion changes are not only intrinsic but also influenced by the dynamism
of globalization the aim of the project is to bring to notice the use of
reversible gown that can be used for various occasions, to create something
new in the designing and production of reversible gown. reversible gowns
does not only serve different purpose for different occasion all at the same
time only, but reveals the wearer’s fitting style and the observers sense of it
symbol and captivated style seen on the wearer.. the findings of the study, if
utilized, will be beneficial, the practical aspect within this study can help
fashion designer to improve style and quality of their product
 CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study

Clothing is one of the basic necessities in the life of man. Many

different methods have been employed in the production of garments for

human wear. Such methods include sewing, and crocheting. Sewing is

known to be the major means of constructing garments. Parts of garments

can be obtained either through pattern making or free hand cutting and the

parts are joined together either by hand or machine. There are many

techniques used in the field of textiles and fashion. From the researcher‟s

observation, other technique such as patching and gluing are used to produce

garments especially women‟s wear currently.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Current fashion changes are not only intrinsic but also influenced by

the dynamism of globalization. Thus most fashion consumers shop around

for the best deal on price, quality, convenience, pear group influence and

aesthetic qualities (Hinest & Bruce, 2001). It has been identified that due to

the many ways in which convertible gown can be used, it is not common to

find one. The researcher has therefore decided to investigate, design and

produce it.
1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES

1. To create something new in the designing and production of

convertible gown.

2. To bring to notice the use of convertible gown on various occasions.

3. To bring to the awareness of the people that African fashion can be

adopted all over in Nigeria through this research topic.

1.4 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

Convertible gowns does not only serve different purpose for different

occasion all at the same time only, but reveals the wearer’s fitting style and

the observers sense of it symbol and captivated style seen on the wearer. The

study intends to establish the importance of a convertible gown in a fashion

industry. The findings of the study, if utilized, will be beneficial in various

ways:

1. All resources from this research could be used in Fashion Design and

Clothing Technology departmental.

2. The practical aspect within this study can help fashion designer to

improve style and quality of their products.

 3. The information that will be generated from this study will become

benefit to clothing construction teachers and students in schools and

colleges.

4. Fashion designers will equally benefit from this study by using

information to perform their work much easier and faster.

1.5 SCOPE OF THE STUDY

The scope of the project covers the production process and evaluation

of convertible gown. This research focuses on enhancement of the

production quality of convertible gown.

1.6 LIMITATION OF THE STUDY

One major problem that almost prevailed over the success of this

project was limited time, lack of electricity and finance.

Among the problems encountered during the writing of the work

include. Some of the information greatly needed for this research work could

not be found on the internet.

1.7 OPERATIONAL DEFINITIONS OF TERMINOLOGY

Certain professional definitions of terminology are used throughout

this work which must be explained.

Layout – is a process of placement pattern pieces on fabric. This helps in

checking if the fabric is enough or of a patterned fabric has different pieces

with matching pattern.

Measurement – is the size of a part of somebody’s body or a length that has

been measured and used to fit or make clothing.

Measurement Chart – is a table of exact measurements of body proportions.

Pattern Adaptation/Manipulation/Altering - is an adaptation of basic block

patterns to make new styles; it is also called ‘developing’ the pattern.

Seam Allowance – is the width of fabric beyond the seam line, not including

the garment area; it is the extra measurement added to the garment pattern to

allow for stitching.

Template – is a shape made of a stiff substance, such as freezer paper,

usually the size of the finished design. It is a pattern piece without the seam.

It is also a piece of card that guides the machinist when marking pockets or

collars.

Working pattern – any pattern used as a base for manipulation when

generating design patterns.

 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

INTRODUCTION

By now it is clear that sustainability and the fashion and

manufacturing industry are two things that must go hand in hand if we want

to ensure the future of our clothes, and also our planet.

The mood towards fast and disposable fashion is changing as

knowledge and education regarding what we put on our bodies is becoming

more available with brands striving towards a more transparent way of

working. What this means for manufacturers is that creating fashion to

respond to fast-changing trends is no longer at the forefront of importance.

Customers are demanding to know where their clothes were made, if they

were produced humanely and sustainably and if the item they are buying can

be utilised to its fullest potential.

One of the responses to these uprising demands is modular or

convertible clothing. What these products offer consumers is the opportunity

to make an investment in an item of clothing that can be utilised for a longer

period of time through high-quality manufacturing, but at the same time they

also respond to our natural desire for a varied wardrobe that is versatile with

existing items.
The concept of convertible clothing is not a new one, however, the demand

for such items is more prominent than ever with the global awareness of

sustainability. These items include reversible clothing that can be worn

inside out or dresses that can be put on the body in various ways.

Innovation flows through the veins of fashion designers and textile

houses. There was a time when people mocked at those who made the

mistake of wearing their clothes inside out. That was the side with rough

stitched edges, faded designs and untidy looks.

Designers and fashion houses worked on the concept of reversible

clothing and today, reversible clothing is in. Convertible clothing is similar

to this idea. With busy schedules and tight budgets, customers are always on

a lookout for financially viable dresses that serve various purposes. A single

dress is expected to be perfect for office, evening wear or a casual shopping

day with friends. While initially the idea was thought to be a mere fragment

of someone's vivid imagination, it gradually turned to reality. Convertible

clothing is still a new concept, but customers have enthusiastically embraced

it.

The concept of Reversible Gown

A reversible garment is a garment that can be worn two ways. There

is no true "inside out" to a reversible garment, since either way, it gives a

fashionable appearance. Garments that are commonly made reversible

include hats, jackets, vests, sweaters, shirts, trousers, and skirts. Zapp,

(2004).

Reversible garments have some features unlike other types of

garments, such as thicker overall fabric (since two fabric are often sewn

together), buttons on both sides (in garments that have buttons), different

types of stitching, and no tags.

Customers rely on creative wardrobes to perk up the style quotient

and reversible dresses offer creative freedom and style at a comparatively

low cost than buying lots of apparel to look different each day. These

dresses help save space and are a perfect option for minimalists.

Whatever is considered a fad just takes over the whole planet.

Reversible clothing is now a fad. However, the low-cost option and the

creative choices it may help this style rule global markets. In terms of those

who like to spend wisely, these dresses give more for money and

environmentalists are happier since reversible dresses consume less energy

and material to produce than buying several pieces.

Markets welcome the change

Reversible clothing is a practical concept and so far, customers from

developed nations are more inclined to invest in a convertible dress. The

idea of convertible is especially appealing for youngsters, who struggle in

terms of finance. Working professionals, who are worn out finding time to

shop for dresses for different occasions, also appreciate the idea. In

developed countries, customers are more open to experiment with style than

in developing countries where consumers largely continue to be traditional

in apparel shopping. Also, designers like Colorado's fashion designer Kristin

Glenn believes, "People are becoming more conscientious about

overconsumption, and I think that versatile garments are an important part of

any minimalist's or traveller's wardrobe."

Though options for men are fewer than for women, designers are also

working on menswear. Washington designer Shaun Rhames created a

reversible tie for men. Rhames said, "You are getting two ties in one and for

the price of one. The tie features an elastic band that can be switched to be

worn on either side, so the reversible nature doesn't hurt its usability."

In the US reversible dresses are popular in all styles from the casual

variations offered by Target,

 The reversible clothing trend is catching up in China, as consumers

increasingly look for their money's worth. Chinese retail giant JNBY offers

convertible knitwear to consumers, and is popular in the US also. It has

earned loyal customers in Manhattan. The trend started as a test for us."

Nevertheless, reversible clothing garnered huge attention and attracted

several consumers, which has made the company expand this section by 5

per cent to 10 per cent each year since 2007.

In India, the young urban population from metros like Delhi, Mumbai

and Bangalore is more inclined to buy convertible clothing. But, choices

offered in these cities are also limited, which is keeping the trend from

becoming popular. The population from tier II cities continues with a

conventional shopping style. Though experimenting with accessories to give

a dress new look is popular, convertible clothing is not a trend here. The

reasons for this are lack of awareness and lack of choices.

The reversible clothing fashion is in its formative stage so trade

figures for the international market are still not clear. The US Census Bureau

does not list reversible clothing when detailing apparel and fashion trade

figures.
Global reckoning of the fabric

Designer Tansy Hamley who designed 'work to flirt dress' is

optimistic that the future belongs to reversible clothing. This dress can be

worn at work and easily converted to a dress appropriate for an evening date.

"Due to the hectic lifestyles that we all are leading these days, I believe that

in the future more fashion will be focused on two-in-one versatile outfits that

can be altered to suit different occasions," Hamley said.

There are websites like Style Hive, Refinery 29 and Trend Spot that

provide illustrations in images and schematic representations that help

customers unmask the convertible fashion style and apply to their personal

style.

Famous clothing retailers like Gap, Express, etc are also offering

convertible dresses. Globally, retailers in China, Europe and America have

produced convertible clothing in fashion shows. Gap offers four-in-one-

dress, which can be transformed into three different lengths according to the

occasion. Express offers reversible belts, camisoles and dresses.

Anthropologie sells a seamless tank top with a V-neck on one side and

scoop neck on the other.

A few designers in India are also experimenting with reversible

clothing. Though the experiments are still confined to a few dresses, the
versatility has been lauded by consumers. Some designers offer convertible

collars so that the wearer can fold it back into the neckline if required. This

dress is perfect for formal and semi-formal occasions. Reversible collars are

also available in men's shirts.

Reversible dresses are a cool option for consumers, but these are yet

to become wardrobe staple. Yet, the future is definitely promising as the

customer gets multiple dresses for the price of one "The moment is right.

Consumers have become more daring and self-expressive. They're getting

comfortable with shifting their clothes around, pinning them to the side, and

kind of working them."

POLISHED

As the name implies, polished cotton is a woven cotton

fabric with a smooth, shiny surface. The shine can result from

the weave itself, or from pressing the fabric between cylinders

during manufacture, a process known as calendering. Some

polished cottons have more shine than others because they are

treated with a resin or glaze during the process.

Polished cotton is available in a variety of prints and solid

colors. However, when polished cotton is printed with intricate

floral patterns, it is more commonly known as chintz. In decor,

chintz is seen covering chairs, sofas, headboards and other

upholstered pieces, as well as in curtains, pillow covers and

decorative tablecloths. However, because the glaze finish can

wash off with water, it's not a good idea to use chintz for items

that need to be laundered, such as dining table linens. Staples

(2013).

How-to-Clean-Polished-Cotton

This process is not for the inexperienced person. The polish cotton

material can be very fragile if handles wrong. When you purchase the floral

patterned polished cotton known as chintz, you can’t really wash it at all.

The glazed finish that created that great floral pattern that convinced

you to buy the material can easily come off in the wash. No matter what

temperature of water you use. also, you have to watch out for those normal

cotton laundry ills like shrinking, wrinkling, and so on.

Being woven in a special way or having been pressed by rollers does not

take those negative elements out of the cotton fibers. Make sure to read the

cleaning label first before starting your wash load. If it says machine

washable then wash with care.

If it doesn’t it is best to err on the side of caution and send the clothing

to the dry cleaners. When it comes to furniture or other household items

don’t wash. The water can damage the material and the design and you will

have wasted your money.

 CHAPTER THREE

3.1 METHODOLOGY

This chapter explains the method adopted and procedure used in the

collection and carrying out the study. To get a good result from any product,

it is good to first of all utilize all the materials, tools and equipment very

well and appropriately. This chapter is based on the various materials, tools

equipment and procedure used in carrying out the project.

3.2 MATERIALS USED

The materials, tools and equipment used in carrying out this project

are;

1. Polished Cotton
2. Brown Paper
3. Zipper
4. Breast Pad
5. Breast Cup

3.3 TOOLS FOR SEWING

1. Tap Measurement
2. Scissor
3. Pencil
4. Ruler
 5. Tracing Wheel
6. Brown Paper
7. Eraza
8. Cutter
9. Long and short ruler
10.French Curve
11.Set of Square

3.4 PREPARATION OF MATERIALS

For the purpose of the production of the dinner gown there are various

steps that needed to be followed in other to get the finished product. These

steps are as follow:

1. Illustration
2. Pattern drafting
3. Measurement
4. Design analysis
5. Adaptation
6. Cutting
7. Sewing
8. Ironing
9. Packaging
3.5 PROCEDURE FOR DETACHABLE WEDDING GOWN
PRODUCTION
Style Conception

In production of detachable wedding gow, it is important that a very

unique and fascinating style patterns are considered and as such, much

creativity and care must be put to work in order to ensure the comfort. Also

line has an important part to play in sewing a dress, it helps to define the

body outline and it separates the figure into various parts.

Selection of Measurement

The researcher used measurement of size of Standard Body

Measurement for construction of the detachable wedding gown, they are as

follows:

S/N POINT OF MEASUREMENT(Iches) SIZE 12

1 Shoulder 14

2 Burst 32

3 Under Bust 12

4 Waist 24

5 Shoulder-Waist 15
 6 Hip 35

7 Gown Length 36

8 Flay Length 38

Pattern Drafting Process

Pattern making involves the design and creation of template from

which clothing can be sewn. Patterns are made of pieces of paper shapes that

are traced onto the fabric to be cut, with each individual pattern piece serving

as a form for an individual part of the garment or items to be sewn. When

drafting a pattern, it is essential that lines and curves are smooth and straight

because any uneven lines will show as in slightly bumps on the finish

garments.

The pattern making depends on the measurement taken of the model

(male or female). The male and child measurement are very similar. In

garment production there are two reasons for taking measurement, they are;

1. To ascertain the size of the figure

2. To determine the proportion of the various part of the figure.

Adaptation of Block Pattern

The foundation for pattern cutting is a block pattern. Patterns are made in

average size to suit different type of figure. Alternation and adaptation are

made to produce the final pattern.

Cutting Process

The pattern pieces are place on the fabric with the help of office pins for

cutting.

Sewing Process

This is the act of joining the different part of the fabrics so as to form a

garment with the use of a sewing machine, thread and hand needle.

3.5 STEP TAKING WHEN SEWING

1. Using your pattern to cut the material.

2. Iron the fabric down for a neat work

3. Join the lining to the material using the ironing to face the front of

the material, then you sew, notch and top stitch and turn the lining

to the back of the fabric.

4. Use your scissor to cut all the thread on the garment.

5. Ironing

6. Quality Control
 7. Packaging.

Figure 3.1: Sketches of the Reversible Gown

Figure 3.2: Pattern Drafting
Figure 3.3: Cutting of Material
Figure 3.4: Sewing process
Figure 3.5: Model Wearing Constructed Reversible Gown
 Figure 3.6: Model Wearing Constructed

Reversible Gown

References
Zapp, A. (2004). The Zapp Method of Couture Sewing: Tailor Garments
Easily Using Any Pattern. Krause Publications. pp. 2–77. 

Hinest, D.L. (2004). Folk and Fairy Tales: A Handbook–Greenwood

Folklore Handbooks. ABC-CLIO. p. 9. ISBN 9780313058592.

Roshina .L. (1990) What is the difference between a dress and a gown,
Quora.com Retrive 20th March, 2021.

Staples .K. (2013) Clothing through American History, Wikipedia.com

Retrive 20th March, 2021.