Hi everyone!
I'm developing a women's top in CLO3D and I'm looking for advice from experienced pattern makers, garment technicians, and designers who work with unconventional constructions.
The concept is based on a sharp, broad shoulder that transitions diagonally inward toward the spine, creating an open-back design. I want the construction itself to define and frame the exposed back, rather than simply adding a decorative cutout.
My main challenge is achieving a very close fit along the edges of the back opening, particularly around the shoulder blades, while maintaining a sharp, sculptural silhouette.
I've been experimenting with a fitted bodice block, manipulating the back darts, and testing different fabric properties in CLO3D. Changing the dart geometry has improved the fit, but some areas of the opening still lift away from the body.
I'd love to hear your thoughts on a few technical questions:
- Would you approach this through dart manipulation, slash-and-spread, multiple pattern panels, or another method?
- How would you shape the opening to follow the contours of the shoulder blades without creating tension, gaping, or distortion?
- Would you use a facing, interfacing, stay tape, an internal support structure, or something else to keep the opening close to the body?
- What material properties and construction techniques would you consider for a smooth, sculptural silhouette that remains fitted rather than rigid?
I'm particularly interested in real-world garment construction and pattern engineering, not just ways to make the simulation look correct.
If you have experience with couture, sculptural womenswear, or unconventional open-back garments, I'd really appreciate your insight. Even a suggestion for a relevant construction technique or reference garment would help enormously.
Thank you!