A princess seam is a style line of the bodice which intersects the apex of the bust. Essentially the princess seam style line becomes the "Dart Equivalent" taking the place of the darts to shape the fabric to the body.

The classic princess seam travels vertically through the bodice, from the center of the shoulder, through the apex and straight down to the waist.

An armhole princess seam starts in the center of the armhole, curves downward to cross the apex and then straight down to the waist. But these two styles of princess seam can both be played with in a variety of ways.

In addition to the flattering shape that princess seams create on the body and the fact that they eliminate the need for darts, princess seams also are the key to create a garment that crosses the waistline without having a waist seam. You will notice that in many of the images on this page, the princess seam garments show do not have a waist seam.

However, for now we will begin working with the princess seam as a style line variation of the bodice sloper.

FURTHER YOUR KNOWLEDGE:

Threads Magazine Article on the origin of the term "Princess Seam":

https://www.threadsmagazine.com/2019/10/23/qa-why-are-princess-seams-called-princess-seams

Click NEXT to begin Drafting a Princess Seam Bodice