This thesis explores the possibilities of virtual 3D garment simulation software for fashion design. The available software for simulating virtual clothing can roughly be separated into two groups. The first group of software is focused on animation and used to visualize cloth for games, movies, commercials. The second group is used for the virtual prototyping of garments in the apparel industry. Their main focus is to check a garment for the fit, and the 3D software is an extension on pattern making software that was already available.
Various software applications are explored in this thesis. An overview of functionality and a comparison of pros and cons are identified. Software aimed at the apparel industry is not very flexible in accurately visualizing a garment and especially the fabric of that garment. Through the use of sophisticated fabric design, this thesis shows how to use existing visualization techniques available in Autodesk Maya 8.5 differently to enhance the realism of virtual fabric and garment simulation.