seamside

Seamside refers to the side of a seam in textile and garment construction. It describes the edge along which two pieces of fabric are joined and is often considered in relation to the right side (the outer face) and the wrong side (the interior face) of the fabric. In finished garments, the seam side is typically the side that lies against the seam allowances and may be less visible, especially after certain finishes are applied.

In practice, the seam side is influenced by how the seam is finished and how the seam allowances are treated. Some seams, such as enclosed or French seams, are designed so that the seam allowances are concealed from the exterior, making the seam side less visible. Other seam styles, such as exposed or topstitched seams, deliberately reveal the seam side as part of the garment’s design. The choice of finishing technique affects durability, stretch, drape, and appearance.

When constructing patterns and assembling garments, makers consider the seam side to control aesthetics and function. Pressing instructions often specify directions for folding or pressing seam allowances toward the seam side or toward the fabric’s exterior, depending on the desired finish and stability.

Seamside is thus a practical concept in sewing, connected to seam construction, finishing techniques, and how a garment presents on the body. See also seam, seam allowance, right side, wrong side, seam finish.