The upper portion of a dress or similar garment, generally covering the torso above the waist.
A bodice is the torso section of a dress or similar garment, whether it is joined to a skirt at the waist or continues into the rest of the garment. Its shape can be developed by draping fabric on a dress form or by working with a flat pattern. The maker considers how the neckline, shoulders and arm openings sit together. A bodice is a garment section, while a neckline is an opening within that section. The term does not by itself mean that the garment contains corsetry or rigid support.
In job listings
Pattern makers, dressmakers and alteration staff use this word regularly, though listings may simply refer to garment construction. A fitter may spend much of an appointment on the bodice, because small changes there are easily seen. Search local jobs for “tailor”.
