Fashion A-Z

From applique to zippers, a comprehensive dictionary with definitions and
meanings of key fashion vocabulary, written by Camilla Morton.

Bolero

Bolero here does not refer to the slow-tempo Latin music, but rather a shrug or short jacket. Typically open-fronted, it is collarless with long sleeves and characteristically stops above the waist. It originates, like the music, from Spain. Before the 19th century, it was more commonly referred to as a Zouave. Although these two jackets share all the same features, a Zouave had a military influence, while the bolero had been inspired by dance and sometime even a toreador, Ole!

Box Jacket

Box Jacket (or a box coat) has a straight, unfitted back that means it hangs loosely from the shoulders. It has evolved from the coachman’s heavy overcoat, but became a status symbol during the power dressing 1980s. Since then, the jacket become a wardrobe style staple and has been adopted by several high profile female politicians and leaders — think Chanel tweed coming to the White House.

Box Pleats

Box Pleats can be found in skirts, shirts or adding decorative flounces to interiors. Box pleats appear in ‘clusters’, often forming a panel, and are essentially back to back knife pleats.