Fashion A-Z

From applique to zippers, a comprehensive dictionary with definitions and
meanings of key fashion vocabulary, written by Camilla Morton.

Tapered

Tapered, for edges, hems, heels or seams, is when the shape diminishes or reduces in thickness at one end, tapering to a point.

Trapeze Line

Trapeze Lines were popularised by Christian Dior’s successor, Yves Saint Laurent in spring 1958, with his Trapeze Line collection that featuring dresses that flared from the fitted shoulder line. The trapeze line reinvented the A-Line, what had bee “most wanted silhouette in Paris,” with the same swing as its circus counterpart.

Trompe L'Oeil

Trompe l’oeil is an art technique that has been borrowed by fashion, where a designer creates an optical illusion, through a change in perspective, dimension, or placement. From haute couture to the high street’s illusion dresses, this method is a popular way of changing shape or adding layers, belts and collars. It was first popularised by the designer Elsa Schiaparelli in 1927, when she wove a collar into a sweater.

Fashion A-Z

Tapered

Trapeze Line

Trompe L'Oeil

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C-E

F-G

H-L

M-O

P-Q

R-U

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