Design Elements & Principles – Grade 9 (Clothing & Interior)

Vocabulary flashcards covering essential terms related to design elements, principles, and their applications in clothing and interior design.

Colour

The visual property produced by light reflection/absorption; used to set mood, evoke emotion, and create interest.

Line

A mark with length and direction—straight, curved, horizontal, vertical, diagonal—defining shapes and guiding the eye.

Shape

A self-contained two-dimensional area with clear boundaries; can be geometric or organic.

Form

The three-dimensional aspect of an object describing structure and volume.

Texture

Perceived surface quality; adds depth and tactile or visual interest (rough, smooth, matte, glossy).

Pattern

A repeated decorative design element that introduces rhythm and harmony.

Space

The area within, around, or between objects; includes positive (filled) and negative (empty) areas.

Balance

Distribution of visual weight; may be symmetrical, asymmetrical, or radial to create stability.

Contrast

Juxtaposition of differing elements (colour, size, texture) to create emphasis and vibrancy.

Unity

The coherent relationship among design elements, giving a sense of completeness.

Emphasis

Creation of a focal point to draw attention and establish hierarchy.

Proportion

Relative size and scale of elements within a design for visual harmony.

Repetition

Use of identical or similar elements to create consistency, rhythm, and unity.

Movement

Visual flow that guides the viewer’s eye, adding energy and direction.

Rhythm

Repetition or alternation of elements that produces a sense of motion.

Positive Space

Area occupied by objects or garments in a composition.

Negative Space

Empty or unused area surrounding objects, critical for balance.

Symmetrical Balance

Mirror-image arrangement on either side of a central axis, conveying formality.

Asymmetrical Balance

Unequal yet visually balanced arrangement creating dynamism.

Radial Balance

Elements radiate from a central point, as in round tables or chandeliers.

Silhouette

The overall outline or shape of a garment (e.g., A-line, H-line).

Draping

The way fabric hangs or falls on the body to create form.

Colour Scheme

Planned combination of colours (monochromatic, complementary, analogous) for harmony or contrast.

Psychological Impact of Colour

Emotional response colours evoke—red passion, blue calm, etc.

Tactile Texture

Surface feel experienced by touch—soft, rough, stiff.

Visual Texture

Surface appearance creating a perceived feel, such as glossy or matte finishes.

Vertical Lines (Clothing)

Lines that make the body appear taller and slimmer.

Horizontal Lines (Clothing)

Lines that can widen and shorten the body visually.

Diagonal Lines (Clothing)

Slanted lines adding movement and dynamism to garments.

Curved Lines (Clothing)

Soft lines emphasizing body curves and a feminine look.

Feature Wall

An accent wall using bold colour or pattern to create emphasis in interiors.

Natural Light

Daylight entering through windows or skylights, affecting mood and colour perception.

Artificial Light

Man-made illumination (ambient, task, accent) enhancing functionality and atmosphere.

Proportion and Scale (Interior)

Relationship and size of elements relative to each other and the room.

Open Space

Interior area with minimal furnishings, offering freedom and movement.

Filled Space

Area occupied by furniture/decor, creating coziness and intimacy.

Material Contrast

Pairing differing textures (e.g., glossy vs. matte) to highlight differences.

Colour Contrast

Placement of light and dark or opposite colours for visual impact.

Focal Point

Primary area of interest that draws the viewer’s attention.

Silhouette: A-line

Garment shape fitted at the top and flaring gradually to the hem.

User Experience (Design)

Overall effectiveness, aesthetics, and functionality perceived by end users.

Consistency

Repeated use of similar colours, textures, or motifs to achieve unity.

Furniture Arrangement

Placement of pieces to balance positive/negative space and ensure flow.

Light Fixture

Decorative object (lamp, chandelier, sconce) providing artificial light and style.

Accessory Proportion

Balancing large and small decor items to avoid overpowering a space.