As we usually see, most designs follow the general rules of symmetry and balance. It is, after all, the age-old device of the visual artist. In design, symmetry is closely tied to the sense of stability that the said design is supposed to evoke for the viewer. But then, there’s also the concept of asymmetry.
In asymmetrical designs, two halves are balanced but do not necessarily mirror each other.
Here’s an example.
While symmetry is what our brains are used to, asymmetry is where the real beauty of design lies.
The attraction of asymmetry
There is serious psychology behind our attraction towards asymmetry.
Studies on visual learning and design experience say – that asymmetrical visual stimuli can be more arousing than symmetrical stimuli.
Let’s try this. See the image below and ask yourself which dress looks more attractive to you?
To add to that, studies also say that understanding the aesthetics of asymmetry can improve our cognitive skills.
Our minds may be designed to prefer symmetry and balance in things that we see or experience. But sometimes the lack of that evenness is where we find pleasure.
When it comes to fashion, understanding the concept of asymmetrical designs can change the way we look at the beauty of clothes.
Take the asymmetrical hemline or neckline for example.
The degree of the slant can vary from one side to both sides or from subtle to steep.
Asymmetrical cuts in fashion
The concept of asymmetrical dress started in ancient Greece and Rome . Clothes with a slanted neckline or with a single shoulder togas was the staple fashion for both men and women.
Greek fashion was considered quite progressive for its era. One might say that the idea was to make clothing gender-neutral, thus signifying freedom in clothing.
Image source & credit: https://lifestyleasia.onemega.com/the-rise-and-fall-of-a-man-named-halston/)
The concept of creating clothes with asymmetrical cuts became a raging fashion trend in the 70s, thanks to American designer Roy Halston Frowick, Halston became iconic for fusing the idea of Grecian gowns with elegant cocktail dresses. Thus creating an attention-grabbing silhouette.
The Showstopper aesthetics
We have brought these past trends and a psychological understanding of design aesthetics. And we have created our collection of dresses, skirts, and tops flaunting asymmetrical hemlines and necklines. Varying in colors, fabrics, patterns, and styles, these asymmetrical lines are here to make you feel bold and sexy. To give you a very unique fashion experience, liberating you from the conventions of symmetry, whenever you seek something out of the box.
It’s edgy, brave, and gives you a very distinctive look from other styles. With straight lines and cuts, we think like our brain is wired to. With a lack of the same, we are thinking outside of our limitations. The edginess and irregularity of asymmetrical cuts attract us in ways that we are not consciously aware of, thus making us adopt a style that is not mainstream.
Next time, you want to wear something out-of-the-box, go all asymmetrical and see how it impacts not only your style statement but also your thinking!
