During the past decade, whilst the development of new generic fibres has not markedly increased, the technical engineering of the structure of existing fibres has produced an explosion of new fabrics. Many of these have a quite new appearance and a significantly different handle. Many students are overwhelmed by the infinite creative possibilities in fashion and are daunted by regid technical procedures, yet the relationship beteen garment cut and fabric potential is probably the most important feature of present design skills. This book is an approach to design and flat pattern cutting that is based on the appraisal of the fabric and the body form. Winifred Aldrich hopes that this book astrides the arts and sciences offering a sense of visual and tactile order that will help students develop an intuitive and practical approach to their discipline.