5 Easy Steps to Sketch a Woman in an Evening Gown

This graceful woman is ready for a glamorous night out! Her strapless gown and elbow-length gloves exude sophistication, making her the center of attention at any event.

In this section, you'll learn how to sketch the woman in the evening dress shown above. You can either draw freehand while referencing your computer screen or print this page for a detailed view of each step.

Trace the red lines in each illustration to understand exactly what to sketch in that step. Previous steps are highlighted in black. We provide a visual guide for each stage, along with a detailed explanation to help you create your masterpiece.

Let's begin on the following page.

1. Draw the Outline

Start by drawing an oval shape for the head. Use a vertical line to split the oval into left and right halves, marking the center of the face. Add a horizontal line to divide the oval into upper and lower sections, indicating where the tops of the eyes will be placed.

Draw a horizontal line for the hairline, positioned about one-sixth of the way from the top of the oval. Divide the area below the hairline into three equal parts. The first line represents the eyebrows, the second marks the tip of the nose, and the ears are positioned between the eyebrows and the nose.

Split the area beneath the nose into three equal sections. The first line indicates the mouth opening, while the second marks the lower lip's position.

Create a curved line beneath the head to outline the neck and spine. Use rectangular shapes for the chest and hips, connecting them with a line to define the waist.

Shape the arms and legs using curved tubular forms. Add ovals for the shoulders and kneecaps. For the left hand, draw an elongated oval, and for the right hand, use two triangular shapes. Use wedge-like forms to sketch the shoes.

Proceed to the next step.

2. Draw the Dress Outline

Sketch an oval to represent the ear. Use flowing curved lines to outline the hairline. Create a U-shaped curve for the jawline. Extend a long, smooth curve below the jawline to define the neck, shoulders, and arms. Use a combination of straight and curved lines to shape the dress.

Continue to the next step.

3. Draw the Hair

Create two curved lines for the eyebrows and two pointed ovals for the eyes. Define the nose with straight lines. Use irregular ovals to shape the full lips. Outline the hair with long, flowing wavy lines. Add a line to the chin and another to the collarbone for detail. Draw two curves for the neckline and a long, sweeping curve for the dress's side. Use bent lines to form the shoes.

We'll enhance the dress with additional details on the next page.

4. Add Some Detail

Complete the eyes by darkening the ovals. Use curved lines to form the eyelids. Add volume to the hair with a wavy line. Define the bottom lip with a subtle line. Sketch a long oval earring with intricate squiggles inside. Depict long gloves using short lines to indicate folds and wrinkles. Use straight lines to create a floral pattern at the center of the dress, extending them to show natural pulls and folds.

5. Add the Final Touches

Complete the hair with intricate squiggles. Enhance the dress and gloves by adding shading with short, straight lines. Add finer details to the flower using curved lines.

Congratulations! This elegant woman appears ready for a grand event. Could it be a wedding? Head to the next page to discover how to sketch a bride.