Term

Bodice

The bodice is the upper part of a dress, from the shoulders to the waist. It controls most of how a dress fits, so it is where tailors work on darts, straps, bust cups and the waist seam. A bodice that is too small is hard to fix, while a loose one is easier to take in, which is why many shoppers buy for their largest measurement. Structured bodices often contain lining or boning. See also: Boning, Lining, Alterations, and the guide Dress Alterations Guide: What to Expect and How to Prepare.