What Actually Is A Bias Cut?

“What’s in a name? That which we call a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.”

Yes, yes we all know that immortal Shakespeare line. But let’s get real for a minute: names are pretty important.

From your own to that of a brand, a name is ingrained in one’s identity. So when you start up your own business, obviously coming up with a good, punchy name is integral. 

Fortunately our name “The Bias Cut” has been frequently complimented; a double entendre of being both a technical fashion term, and referencing our mission to cut through the age bias within the Fashion Industry.

But what I have found is, beyond knowing it’s a technical term, some people don’t know what it actually means to cut on the bias.

So, in the spirit of recognising that names do matter, here is a brief explanation of the bias cut (the technique, not our boutique):

In short, it’s the technique of cutting on the diagonal grain (at 45 degrees) of the fabric rather than the straight and cross grains. The technique causes the fabric to fall and drape in a way that creates a slinky silhouette.

It was ‘invented’ by Parisian couturier, Madeleine Vionette, in 1927 and became a popular 30s shape. Think of that iconic green dress Keira Knightly wore in the film Atonement.

A bias cut is commonly used for sexy nightgowns, seductive dresses and slinky skirts. The cut causes dresses to caress the curves and delicately flow, making it ideal for these types of garments. Some of my favourites from our collection include:

The Doris Lynx Dress - Now 50% OFF - Shop here

The Claire Zebra Pink Skirt - Now 50% OFF - Shop here

The Claire Skirt in Dotty Print - Now 50% OFF - shop here

Worn with our Cyprus Dot Denim Jacket - shop here 

 

Cutting on the bias gives fabric more of a stretch, so it takes skill to be able to successfully adopt the technique. If not sewn correctly, it’s possible for the hems and seams to bunch and twist.

Also, it’s worth noting how revolutionary it was at the time – for garments to drape and move in the way that Vionette’s did, in contrast to the square, androgynous silhouettes of the 20s, really would have caused a stir. And that's what we're doing here too at The Bias Cut, as the first age-inclusive independent fashion boutique with uniquely curated collections, 'real women' models, and shop by body shape options - so it's a rather fitting name all round don't you think?! 

 

 

Second image credit: PKM, English Language Wikipedia 

 

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