dégradées

A dégradé is a type of gradient or shading effect, often seen in art, fashion, and design. The term originates from the French word meaning "to degrade" or "to shade." It refers to a gradual transition from one color to another, or from a lighter tone to a darker tone. This transition can be smooth and seamless, or it can involve discrete steps, depending on the desired aesthetic.

In painting and drawing, dégradés are achieved through careful blending of colors or pigments. Artists use techniques such as glazing, scumbling, or stippling to create these subtle shifts in hue and value. In textiles and fashion, dégradé effects are applied through dyeing processes, printing, or weaving. This can result in garments that feature a flowing transition of color from top to bottom, or from one side to another.

Dégradés are also employed in graphic design and digital art, where they are easily created using software tools. These gradients can add depth, visual interest, and a sense of sophistication to logos, backgrounds, and illustrations. The application of dégradé effects is versatile, serving to soften edges, highlight forms, or create atmospheric perspectives. The visual impact of a dégradé lies in its ability to evoke a sense of flow, subtlety, and naturalistic progression.