box-pleat

box-pleat

A tailor sews a box-pleat into the hem of a skirt.

Definition

Noun: A "box-pleat" is a type of pleat in fabric, formed by folding the cloth back on itself in two opposite directions, creating a flat, rectangular panel on the outside of the garment. It is commonly used in skirts, shirts, and curtains to add fullness and structure.

Usage Examples
  • (A specific pleat that creates a flat panel.)
  • (A pleat folded in opposite directions.)
Advanced Usage
  • "Double box-pleat": Two box-pleats placed side by side, often used in men's shirts or formal wear.

    • The shirt had a double box-pleat on the back for extra room. (Two pleats providing more fabric allowance.)
  • "Inverted box-pleat": A variation where the pleat is folded inward so the fabric lies flat on the outside, with the folds hidden.

    • The curtain had an inverted box-pleat, making it appear smooth from the front. (A pleat with inward folds.)
Variants and Related Words
  • Pleat (n): a fold in fabric, typically held in place by stitching.

    • The dress had many small pleats around the waist. (A general term for fabric folds.)
  • Box-pleated (adj): describing a garment or item that features a box-pleat.

    • She wore a box-pleated skirt to the formal event. (A skirt with box-pleats.)
Synonyms
  • Knife pleat: a similar but narrower pleat, all folded in the same direction.

    • Unlike a box-pleat, a knife pleat is pressed to one side. (A different type of pleat.)
  • Accordion pleat: a series of narrow, parallel pleats that resemble an accordion's folds.

    • The accordion pleat is more flexible than a box-pleat. (A contrasting pleat style.)
Related Idioms
  • "Pleat and tuck": a phrase used in tailoring to describe the process of making folds and adjustments.
    • The tailor used a pleat and tuck technique to fit the jacket perfectly. (A method involving pleats and sewing adjustments.)