princessseam

Princess seams are a type of sewn seam that runs vertically, from the shoulder or armhole to the hem of a garment. They are characterized by their curved shape, which is designed to follow the natural contours of the body, creating a more fitted and flattering silhouette. Unlike a straight side seam, a princess seam allows for shaping and dart manipulation without the need for separate darts.

These seams are typically found in tailored garments such as dresses, blouses, and fitted jackets. The curved nature of the princess seam allows for significant shaping, accommodating bust, waist, and hip curves. This makes them ideal for creating garments that have a close fit and a sophisticated appearance. The seam itself is often constructed by joining two or more pieces of fabric, with the curve of the seam line mirroring the body's shape.

The origin of the name "princess seam" is often attributed to Queen Victoria, whose fondness for fitted gowns inspired the design. The seam was seen as a way to achieve a more elegant and tailored look, befitting royalty. Today, princess seams remain a popular design element in fashion, valued for their ability to enhance the wearer's figure and provide a structured, polished finish to a garment. They can be used to create a variety of styles, from subtly shaped to dramatically fitted.