muotiluettelo

Muotiluettelo is a Finnish term that translates roughly to a "fashion silhouette list" or "fashion silhouette catalog." In fashion design and related disciplines it refers to a collection of standard outlines—gives outlines of garments and, in some contexts, simplified human figure silhouettes—that are used in illustration, pattern making, and design communication. The silhouettes function as templates to convey shape, proportion, and line without detailing fabric, texture, or color.

The main uses of muotiluettelo are in education and professional practice. Designers and students employ silhouette templates during the early stages of concept development to experiment with line and volume and to maintain consistent proportions when moving from sketch to pattern. There are typically two categories: garment silhouettes, which define the external shape of clothing (for example straight, fitted, A-line, empire waist, sheath, or flared), and figure silhouettes, which are simplified body outlines used for sketching and draping practice. In Finnish design curricula, muotiluettelo helps compare ideas quickly and serves as a common reference in design briefs and pattern libraries.

In modern practice, the concept integrates traditional hand drawing with digital tools. Silhouette libraries may be used in both print and digital catalogs, design software, and educational materials. While the exact usage can vary, muotiluettelo generally denotes a curated set of reference outlines that communicate form and proportion efficiently, facilitating collaboration across designers, pattern makers, and educators.