Background information
Round and relaxing – curved sofas are on the rise
by Pia Seidel
What does "smocked" stand for?
21.8.2020
Translation: machine translated
Ge... what? In the "What is it?" series, I explain fashion terms that you've probably heard of but don't know exactly what they mean.
As soon as someone gives me an irritated look when I'm talking shop about the latest fashion trends, it's time again for "What is it?" In this series, I explain fashion glossary, which you don't necessarily need to know, but which you can use to score points with anyone interested in fashion or in small talk. This episode is all about the word: smocked.
To ensure that an item of clothing doesn't look the same every season, fashion designers are constantly adding new details. These "embellishments" add an exciting twist to a rather boring Basic. This season, smocked elements reminiscent of a mixture of pleats and gathers set the tone. The honeycomb pattern is created by elasticated threads that run across the fabric and gather it in the process.
This sewing technique is most commonly used at the hem or neckline of tops, at the waistband of skirts and dresses and on sleeves. In addition to its decorative aspect, it is also practical: if, for example, the back of a body-hugging top is completely smocked, there is no need for a button placket or zip as the fabric stretches when you put it on. As soon as you put the garment on, it moulds to your back like a second skin. This makes inelastic, firm fabrics such as linen, poplin or taffeta stretchy.
What makes smocked clothing so popular? Thanks to their elasticated fit, they are not only comfortable to wear but also flatter the figure - if you use them correctly. Supposed problem areas such as a small bust or a narrow torso can be made to look more voluptuous with smocked details in the décolleté area. An A-line dress with a smocked waist will draw attention away from a wide pelvis. The "embellishment" puts the focus on a narrow body centre.
I really like this trend because it's playful and romantic. It's a style break à la "soft meets hard". With a smocked top, I add a feminine touch to a casual outfit consisting of trainers and mom jeans. The same applies to romantic floral dresses with a smocked waist: if I don't feel like being girly, I trim my outfit down to casual with flip-flops or, in autumn, with combat boots from Dr. Martens.
On the other hand, I'm not a fan of tops with a smocked hem. Because they constantly ride up, I spend the whole day trying to pull them down. In my opinion, that's the only time when a smocked garment is anything but comfortable to wear.
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useful links:Vila's top with a square neckline (see above)
When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life.
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