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Design and Product Development

Expression of Emotion in Fashion Design: A Literature Review

Author
  • Danielle Martin orcid logo (Toronto Metropolitan University)

Abstract

This study explores the often-overlooked expression of emotion within the creative processes of fashion designers, addressing a gap in academic literature. Through a detailed review of 275 publications, only 14 directly engage with emotions from the perspective of fashion designers. By analyzing themes within these works, emotions were categorized into five groups: Softness, Hardness, Commitment, Appreciation, and Discomfort. By consulting Plutchik’s wheel of emotions, the study examines the unique emotional landscapes of aspirant and established designers, highlighting how emotions influence their creative outputs. Insights include the designers’ tendencies to contextualize vulnerability and engage audiences emotionally. This work underscores the potential of emotion as a driver for innovation and authenticity in fashion design. It also proposes integrating these findings into pedagogical frameworks, particularly in courses such as draping and creative direction, to deepen students' understanding of emotional expression as a cornerstone of their creative practices. 

Keywords: Expression, Emotion, Fashion Designer, Literature Review

How to Cite:

Martin, D., (2025) “Expression of Emotion in Fashion Design: A Literature Review”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 81(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.18792

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Published on
2025-01-18

Peer Reviewed