Ready-to-wear apparel design development typically begins with trend forecasting publications. Teaching students how to interpret such information and translate applicable elements is challenging. In the design assignment reported here, apparel students were introduced to the process of inspiration through the iconic collection of colour blocked knit dresses created by Yves St. Laurent (1965). Students initiated their design process with a painting and/or historical artifact from a local art gallery or museum with the aim to create women's daywear comprised of coordinating separates (jacket, pant, top). Each piece was to be made up in different, but coordinating fabrics. Use of at least one printed, embroidered or woven multi-coloured textile was mandatory. Students kept a design process journal to document their use of inspirational sources, colour, fabric and concept development. Examples of student work that highlight details incorporated on fabric surfaces, through silhouettes, proportion, balance and focal points are presented.