Godet Silhouette

Fashion Wiki · Glossary

The godet silhouette is a design and pattern style used in fashion, primarily for skirts, dresses and coats. This technique gives garments a flared silhouette, adding volume and freedom of movement at the hem.

Origins and History

The godet silhouette has its roots in historical fashion, originating in the 19th century. During the Victorian era in particular, godet elements were widely used in dresses to create additional volume and an elegant, feminine silhouette. The word "godet" comes from French and means "small insert" or "gusset".

Characteristics of the Godet Silhouette

The godet silhouette refers to a specific pattern construction. It is most commonly found in skirts and dresses and is reminiscent of an inverted trumpet – which is also where the name originates. The style is recognisable by its fitted hip section that flares out gradually from the thigh downwards. It has also become popular in bridal wear, though it should not be confused with the mermaid cut. While both styles fit closely to the body, the mermaid cut only begins to flare at the knee or calf, whereas the godet silhouette opens up higher. The result is a comfortable freedom of movement that still flatters the figure beautifully.

• Wedge-shaped panels: Godets are cut in a wedge shape and inserted into the seams or slashes of the garment. These triangular panels create the characteristic swinging hem width.
• Volume and movement: The godet silhouette adds extra fullness and freedom of movement, particularly at the hem.
• Elegance and flow: The godets create a fluid, graceful drape that gives the garment a feminine and sophisticated look.

Application in Fashion

Godets are used primarily in skirts and dresses, but also appear in coats and other garments. They are especially popular in eveningwear and occasionwear, where their sweeping shape and flowing drape create an elegant, glamorous effect.

• Skirts: Godet skirts are typically fitted at the waist, with godets inserted from the hip or thigh downwards to add fullness. In skirts, this graceful, swinging style is often compared to the bell skirt. Lengths tend to fall below mid-length.
• Dresses: Godet dresses use the wedge-shaped panels to add volume and a fluid, swinging movement to the skirt section.
• Coats: Godets can also be incorporated into coats to create a flared hem and improve ease of movement.

Flattering for the Figure

This cut is particularly well suited to women with a pear-shaped or hourglass figure. It accentuates curves beautifully while remaining honest about the silhouette. For women who want to highlight their best features, the godet silhouette is an excellent choice.

Summary

The godet silhouette is a versatile and elegant design element in fashion that adds volume, freedom of movement and a feminine silhouette to any garment. Rooted in the Victorian era, it remains a timeless design feature found in both everyday wear and eveningwear alike.

Explore the variety of the godet silhouette and let its elegant, playful aesthetic inspire you. Visit our shop and find your new favourite piece in the godet style.