An inserted piece of material that adds room, shape or flexibility to a garment or shoe.
A gusset introduces an extra piece into an assembly to provide space, shape or movement. Its effect depends on its position and material. The V&A records a Sybil Connolly dress with small diamond-shaped underarm gussets that allow ease of movement and comfort. It also records a linen chemise with side gussets providing fullness at the hem. These examples distinguish a gusset from a decorative patch: the inserted piece changes how the surrounding material accommodates the wearer. In footwear, an elastic side gusset allows an opening to expand when the shoe or boot is pulled on.
In job listings
The word turns up in technical specifications for footwear and clothing rather than in job descriptions. A pattern or product development role is where someone would need to decide where a gusset goes and what it should allow. Search local jobs for “footwear”.
