hemline
HEM-lyne
/ˈhem.laɪn/
The bottom edge or level of a dress, skirt, or coat.
Refers specifically to the lower border line of a garment and its height relative to the floor.
The story behind the word. Combines Old English 'hem' (the folded border of cloth) with 'line'. The term gained global fame in 1926 with George Taylor's 'Hemline Index theory', which suggested skirt hemlines rise during economic booms and drop during recessions.
Word relationships
- border: 'Border' is any edge, while 'hemline' specifically refers to the bottom fabric edge of a dress or skirt.
- neckline: The top edge of a garment surrounding the neck.
Commonly confused with
- seam: A 'seam' is a line joining two pieces of fabric, whereas a 'hemline' is the finished bottom border of a garment.
Word family
- hem (noun/verb): The folded border of fabric; to turn down and sew an edge
Collocations
- floor-length hemline
- asymmetrical hemline
- raise the hemline
- lowered hemline
Idioms & expressions
- Hemline index
Example sentences
- "The tailor raised the hemline slightly so the dress wouldn't sweep against the floor." Dress Fitting
- "Asymmetrical hemlines became popular on the spring runways, creating dynamic visual angles." Fashion Trends
Memory hook
The HEMLINE is the bottom LINE of the HEM. Bottom edge of a dress.
When not to use
Do not confuse with upper garment borders like necklines or waistlines.
Fun facts
- The 'Hemline Index' theory claimed that short hemlines reflected high stock prices in the 1920s, while long floor-length skirts returned during the 1930s Depression.
Explore more words
hem, lapel, alteration, measurement, garment, seam
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