Bodices
A bodice is the upper portion of a woman's garment that covers the torso from the shoulders to the waist. It is usually fitted and can be part of a dress or a separate top worn over a skirt or trousers. Bodices may be strapless or have sleeves and feature various neckline styles. In historical dress, the bodice is often the structured top of a gown and may incorporate corset-like elements such as boning or stay closures.
Construction and shaping vary. Modern bodices commonly use darts, princess seams, or paneling to achieve a close
Historical overview. In Western fashion, bodices evolved from stiff, corseted tops in the 16th–18th centuries to
Modern usage. Today bodices appear in bridal gowns, formal wear, and many ready-to-wear dresses. They range from