About Dressmaker Forms
A dressmaker form is a three-dimensional dummy body that is used for clothing alterations and cutting off excess fabric. They are fundamental for a dressmaker or a tailor shop since they make cutting and sewing more precise than using a cutting board.
History of Dress Forms
Modern looking dress forms have first started appearing in the mid 1700’s during the French Revolution. Before then, dress forms were made out of wood or iron and had a basic human form shape used for small tailor shops. Dress forms back in the 1400’s and 1500’s were used to design and alternate clothing for the rich and royalty. It wasn’t till the 18th century that they were used for anyone entering a tailor shop and wanting a dress fitting.
Types of Dress Forms
Wired French mannequin dress forms are considered antiques and are now not necessarily used for the work of a seamstress but rather as decoration. Most dressmakers today are made out of wood with a soft burlap fabric over it. Adjustable dress forms that can change their shape from tall to short are often used for tailor shops because they are easily accessible.
Old-fashioned dress forms are used to show off the clothing and can even be found in vintage and consignment shops. There are a few dress forms that are actually shaped like the human body and can be used to show the clothing or to make the proper adjustments on the bust and hips.