15 Different types of hemlines

A hemline is a line formed by the bottom edge of a garment – and as in anything related to fashion, style and clothing, a hemline is not limited to a single type – As if, if you have seen a straight hemline you have seen it all – What a joke! There are so many other types of hemlines than that straight one. 

If you want to know the names of skirt lengths checkout this post: Hemlines and lengths of skirts. 

Different types of hemlines

1. A-line Hem

This refers to a hem which is slightly wider than the waist – the clothing gradually flares from the shoulder or the waist to the hem to make it look like a capital A. Usually, the bottom edge is a little curved.

As it is wider at the bottom and gradually narrows towards the top, it balances the body’s natural proportions. Hence it is considered as a universally flattering hemline type for all kinds of bodyshapes.

2. Asymmetrical Hemline

Asymmetrical Hem refers to hemlines that are not straight. It will usually have different levels of hemline (uneven) on either side of the bottom edge of the clothing.

This is a good hemline for a pear shaped bodyshape as it can draw attention to the hem and thus balance the proportions between the upper and lower body. It is also good for an apple bodyshape as it can divert attention away from the midsection, where you do not want the eye to linger. It is also a good hemline for someone with no curves – a straight bodyshape.

3. Bubble Hem

In this hem, the bottom edge is gathered into a hem less wide than the original edge causing a rounded “bubble” to form at the hem.

A bubble hem draws attention away from the volume to the lower part, creating a more balanced look for a pear shaped body.

4. Fishtail hem

Also called a mermaid hemline. This is a hemline that resembles the tail of a fish – usually, the skirt is tight till the knee and then flares out. This stunning hemline is used for formal dresses and wedding gowns.

This is best suited for a person with an hourglass bodyshape, as it accentuates the curves very well. It is also particularly flattering for tall persons.

5. Flared hemline

A hemline with a lot of flare. This is seen in skirts and maxi dresses and pants too.

This hemline can look good for an Inverted triangle body shape as it can balance out the top heavy shape with the hemline flare.

6. Handkerchief hem

In this hem, the clothing is cut in a way that the bottom edge looks like a handkerchief has been held down from the middle, so that the corners of the handkerchief hangs down as more than 2 points in the front and in the back. This is a casual and playful hem.

7. High-Low hem

This is a hem in which the front hem is shorter than the back hem – there is a gradual increase to the back from the front.

8. Raw edge hem

This is a hem with frayed edges.

9. Ruffled hemline

This hemline has ruffles along the edge.

10. Sharkbite hem

This is a hem with two points extending down on either side of the front and on either side of the back – it is considered a jagged uneven look like that of a shark bite, hence the name.

11. Shirt tail hemline

Hem of a shirt which is longer in the back than the front, which is useful when you tuck in your shirt hem into waistbands of pants or skirts. It is longer in the middle with a curved shape.

12. Slant hemline

In this hemline one side is usually longer than the other side resulting in a slanted line

13. Slit hemline

A hemline with a slit – it could be a small slit or a deep slit.

14. Step hem 

This is a hem seen in tops and polo shirts – the hem resembles a step with the front hem slightly longer than the back.

15. Tiered Bottom Hem

In this hem there is extra fabric added as layers giving the garment a layered or tiered look.

The importance of choosing the correct Hemlines cannot be emphasized. It can help to create a balanced and harmonious look. It can enhance the wearer’s body shape and create a pleasing appearance. Out of all these, which is your favourite?

More :  How to sew a hem with sewing machine – 20 ways ; How to hand sew hem-18 ways ; How to sew invisible hem-4 ways.; Important Fashion designing elements

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