Princess cut

nounStandard termTextiles

A garment style shaped by long vertical seams instead of darts.

A method of garment construction where long, curved vertical seams run from the shoulder or armhole down to the hem. These continuous panels shape the fabric closely to the wearer's torso and bust without the need for horizontal waist seams or traditional darts.

Heard on the job

The bodice uses a princess cut to give it a tailored fit through the waist without breaking the pattern line.

Insider tip

Princess seams are highly favored in custom tailoring because they are much easier to take in or let out than standard darts.

Also heard as

  • princess seam