Zips And Wires

Closures and structure

Zips do different jobs depending on their build. A closed-end zip is for anything that stays joined at the bottom — skirts, dresses, cushions, bags. An open-end zip separates completely, which is what a jacket or a coat needs. Invisible zips disappear into the seam and are the usual choice on a fitted dress.

Wires and boning are the other half of this: they hold a shape the fabric cannot hold alone, in corsets, bodices, bustiers and structured bridal. Fit them into their own channels rather than stitching through them, and finish the ends so they cannot work through the cloth in wear.