Investigative design research: on a sweater with an asymmetrical tribal pattern

"The curiosities of everyday items."

Asymmetry, the lack of symmetry or equality, is often used as a method of achieving a harmony for many designs. In nature, we tend to find people with more symmetrical faces to be considered more attractive and concerned with the health of faces lacking symmetry. 

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Though, designers often play with asymmetry to draw our attention away from imperfections, or around the design more. Asymmetry allows our eyes to travel more, creating a more attractive, playful and thought provoking design. Irregular cuts are currently trendy, seen on and off the runway during fashion week, and provide “complete freedom and break away from the rigid lines of symmetry.” (Source 1) Though an asymmetrical hemline has been popular for a long time, ancient greek statues are seen sporting these trendy styles. 

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In addition to the asymmetry of the hemline being desirable the sweater includes a Tribal/Ethnic print. Referred to as tribal because most do not know the exact design. Upon more research, the sweater is in an Aztec Pattern or a Ganado Pattern. The Ganado pattern is seen in Navajo art and began popular “in the late 1800s, they started weaving a few particularly popular designs to trade.” (Source 2) 

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This pattern is very geometric and symmetrical. This sweater is appealing to those desiring an equal balance of both symmetry and asymmetry.  Wrapping yourself in a trendy sweater that is lively and plush is a win-win for me.