Clothing Glossary

Clothing terms from around the world
Afghan a blanket or shawl of coloured wool knitted or crocheted in strips or squares.

Aglet or aiglet is the little plastic or metal cladding on the end of shoelaces that keeps
the twine from unravelling. The word comes from the Latin word acus which means
needle. In times past, aglets were usually made of metal though some were glass or
stone.
aiguillette aglet; specifically, a shoulder cord worn by designated military aides.
A-line skirt a skirt with panels fitted at the waist and flaring out into a triangular shape.
This skirt suits most body types.
amice amice a liturgical vestment made of an oblong piece of cloth usually of white
linen and worn about the neck and shoulders and partly under the alb. (By the way, if
you do not know what an "alb" is, you can find it in this glossary...)
alb a full-length white linen ecclesiastical vestment with long sleeves that is gathered at
the waist with a cincture
aloha shirt Hawaiian shirt
angrakha a long robe with an asymmetrical opening in the chest area reaching down to
the knees worn by males in India
anklet a short sock reaching slightly above the ankle
anorak parka anorak
apron apron a garment of cloth, plastic, or leather tied around the waist and used to
protect clothing or adorn a costume
arctic a rubber overshoe reaching to the ankle or above
armband a band usually worn around the upper part of a sleeve for identification or in
mourning
armlet a band, as of cloth or metal, worn around the upper arm
armour defensive covering for the body, generally made of metal, used in combat.
Usually thought of as worn in medieval times. Bullet proof clothing can be considered as
modern day armour.
ascot a broad neck scarf that is looped under the chin
asymmetrical any clothing which is not the same on the left to the right hand side
babushka a usually triangularly folded kerchief for the head

backpack made from many varieties of fabric. However, it is typically made of a sturdy
fabric to provide proper support for carrying items. Often used be students to carry
books. .
backwrap a wraparound garment, as a skirt, that fastens in the back
Bag purse; handbag
bagwig bagwig an 18th century wig with the back hair enclosed in a small silk
balaclava a knit cap for the head and neck [Also called, balaclava helmet]
baldric an often ornamented belt worn over one shoulder to support a sword or bugle
balmacaan a loose single-breasted overcoat usually having raglan sleeves and a short
turnover collar
balmoral a laced boot or shoe; [Often capitalized] a round flat cap with a top projecting
all around
band a close-fitting strip that confines material at the waist, neck, or cuff of clothing
bandanna a large figured handkerchief
Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

bandeau a fillet or band especially for the hair; strapless bathing top.
Bandless without a waistband
bandolier a belt worn over the shoulder and across the breast [Also, bandoleer]
bangkok a hat woven of fine palm fibre in the Philippines
bangle a stiff usually ornamental bracelet or anklet slipped or clasped on
barb a medieval cloth headdress passing over or under the chin and covering the neck
basinet a light often pointed steel helmet
basque a tight-fitting bodice for women
bathing suit swimsuit
bathrobe a loose often absorbent robe worn before and after bathing or as a dressing
gown
batwing /dolman sleeve a a sleeve with a wide dropped head which comes in tight at
the wrist
bay a garland or crown especially of laurel given as a prize for victory or excellence.
Also, a reddish brown colour.
beachwear clothing for wear at a beach
beanie a small round tight-fitting skullcap worn especially by schoolboys and college
freshmen
bearskin a military hat made of the skin of a bear
beaver a hat made of beaver fur or a fabric imitation; a silk hat. a heavy fabric of felted
wool or of cotton napped on both sides.
bell-bottoms pants with wide flaring bottoms
bell sleeve short sleeve shaped like a bell which flares out at the hem
bellyband a band around or across the belly, as a girth or a band
belt a strip of flexible material worn especially around the waist; a similar article worn as
a corset or for protection or safety or as a symbol of distinction
beret a visorless usually woollen cap with a tight headband and a soft full flat top
bermuda bag a round or oval-shaped handbag with a wooden handle and removable
cloth covers
bermudas Bermuda shorts
bertha a wide round collar covering the shoulders
bicorne a cocked hat
biggin a child's cap; nightcap
Bikini a woman's scanty ( I do not know if scanty is a good way to put it. Lets put it this
way, it has less material then a one piece bathing suit.). Known as a two-piece bathing
suit; a man's brief swimsuit; a man's or woman's low-cut briefs. Swimwear...
billycock [British] derby
biretta a square cap with three ridges on top worn by clergymen especially of the
Roman Catholic Church
blazer a sports jacket often notched collar and patched pockets. A blazer is a type of
single breasted coat, closely related to a suit jacket. Generally, it differs from a suit
jacket in that the buttons are usually metallic, and the outer material generally more
durable. They occur most often in blue colours, but blazers of other colours are not
unheard of. They are included often in uniforms of civilian bodies, such as airlines, boys
schools, yacht clubs, and private security organizations.
Looking at the classic blazer, the double-breasted blue one with brass buttons, the
conclusion that the jacket is of military tradition is rather obvious. Most say the name
stems from the HMS Blazer, a frigate, whose captain, when faced with a visit to his ship
by Queen Victoria, decided to outfit his crew in short double breasted jackets in navy

blue serge, with brass Royal Navy buttons. It is said to have been modelled after the
reefer jacket of midshipmen. Apparently the Queen was so smitten with the "uniform"
that it became the style. Today, the blazer remains navy blue with brass buttons,
although variations can be had in black, tartan green or even red. Coloured and striped
blazers have been the style since the public school days, and there is also a tale that the
red summer jackets of the oarsmen of the Lady Margaret Boat Club, in Cambridge, were
said to look "ablaze" and began a tradition which today is seen in single breasted
blazers at Henley Regatta.
Arguably, the name could also derive from the traditional practice of embroidering or
attaching a school's, regiment's, club's, or ship's coat-of-arms to the breast of the coat -
thus emblazoning the garment
bloomer a costume for women consisting of a short skirt and long loose trousers
gathered closely about the ankles; [Plural] full loose trousers gathered at the knee
formerly worn by women for athletics; underpants of similar design worn chiefly by girls
blouse the word blouse is often utilized when referring to a women's shirt. An old
definition that I found is as follows: a long loose over garment that resembles a shirt or
smock and is worn especially by workmen, artists, and peasants; the jacket of a uniform;
a usually loose-fitting garment that covers the body from the neck to the waist and is
worn especially by women
blouson a garment, as a dress, having a close waistband with blousing of material over
it.
blucher a shoe with a one-piece tongue and vamp and the quarters lapped over the
vamp and laced together
bluebonnet a wide flat round cap of blue wool formerly worn in Scotland
blue jeans pants usually made of blue denim
boa a long fluffy scarf of fur, feathers, or delicate fabric
boat neck Straight horizontal neckline generally used in jersey or stretch material.
boater a stiff hat usually made of braided straw with a brim, hatband, and flat crown
Bodice an article of clothing for women, covering the body from the neck to the waist.
The term comes from pair of bodies (because originally made in two pieces that fasten
together, frequently by lacing). Bodice continues in use to refer to the upper portion of a
one- or two-piece dress to distinguish it from the skirt and sleeves.
body shirt a close-fitting shirt or blouse; a woman's close-fitting top made with a sewn-
in or snapped crotch
bodyhose body·hose [bóddee hoz] or bod·y hose or bod·i·hose singular noun.
Clothing for covering the entire body: 1: A tubular multifunction seamless garment made
from hosiery material. 2: Seamless or seamed garments made from hosiery material
made to cover any part of the body
body stocking a sheer close-fitting one-piece garment for the torso that often has
sleeves and legs
bodysuit a close-fitting one-piece garment for the torso
boilersuit coverall
bolero a loose waist-length jacket open at the front
bolo tie a cord fastened around the neck with an ornamental clasp and worn as a
necktie
bomber bomber jacket
bomber jacket a zippered usually leather jacket with front pockets and knitted cuffs and
waistband

bonnet [Chiefly Scottish] a man's or boy's cap; a brimless Scotch cap of seamless
woolen fabric [Compare tam-o'-shanter]; a cloth or straw hat tied under the chin and
worn by women and children
boondoggle a braided cord some times worn by Boy Scouts as a neckerchief slide,
hatband, or ornament
boot a fitted covering, as of leather or rubber, for the foot and usually reaching the
ankle. Often times use for work (work boots) such as building. Boots are also used for
hiking (hiking boots) and simply for fashion. Boots come in many various shapes, sizes
and colours.
bootee a usually ankle-length boot, slipper, or sock, especially an infant's knitted or
crocheted sock
bootleg straight trouser slightly flared to fit a boot under the trousers
boubou a long flowing garment worn in parts of Africa
bowler a derby hat
bow tie a short necktie tied in a bowknot.
box coat a heavy overcoat formerly worn for driving; a loose coat usually fitted at the
shoulders
box pleat a pleat which has folds to the left and right forming a box in the fold
boxer [Plural] short pant
boxer shorts short pants. Underwear.
boxing glove one of a pair of leather mittens heavily padded on the back and worn in
boxing
bra (brassiere) a woman's close-fitting undergarment with cups for bust support
bracelet an ornamental band or chain worn around the wrist
bragette A codpiece, a piece of leather or stuffed material worn to accent the male
groin
brassard a cloth band worn around the upper arm usually bearing an identifying mark
brassiere a woman's close-fitting undergarment with cups for bust support
Break the crease formed at the bottoms of a man’s trousers caused by his trouser
sitting on his shoe
breastplate a vestment worn in ancient times by a Jewish high priest set with 12 gems
bearing names of the tribes of Israel
breech short pants covering the hips and thighs and fitting snugly at the lower edges at
or just below the knee; pants
breechcloth loincloth
brief short snug pants or underpants
britches breeches, trousers
broadfall the wide falling front flap of breeches or trousers such as those of sailors.
Split falls are the narrower type of flap found on lederhosen and some jodhpurs. The
plural broadfalls is sometimes used to mean trousers having a broadfall
brogan a heavy shoe, especially a coarse work shoe reaching to the ankle
brogue a stout coarse shoe worn formerly in Ireland and the Scottish Highlands; a
heavy shoe often with a hobnailed sole, brogan; a stout oxford shoe with perforations
and usually a wing tip
buckskin [Plural] buckskin breeches.
Bunad : Norwegian traditional costume. The designs are typically elaborate, with
embroidery, scarves and hand-made silver or gold jewellery
burgonet a helmet of either of two 16th century styles
burnoose a one-piece hooded cloak worn by Arabs and Berbers [Also, burnous]

burse purse
busby a military full-dress fur hat with a pendant bag on one side usually of the colour or
regimental facings
bush jacket a long cotton jacket resembling a shirt and having four patch pockets and a
belt
bush shirt a usually loose-fitting cotton shirt with patch pockets
business suit a man's or women's suit consisting of matching coat and trousers and
sometimes a vest
buskin a laced boot reaching halfway or more to the knee
bustier a tight-fitting often strapless top worn as a brassiere or outer garment
button-down a shirt with a button-down collar
caftan a usually cotton or silk ankle-length garment with long sleeves that is common
throughout the Levant
calotte skullcap, especially zucchetto
calpac a high-crowned cap worn in Turkey, Iran, and neighbouring countries
calyptra a Greek veil
camise a light loose long-sleeved shirt, gown, or tunic
camisole a short negligee jacket for women; a short sleeveless garment for women
camp shirt a woman's shirt having a notched collar and often patch pockets
cap a head covering especially with a visor and no brim; a distinctive head covering
emblematic of a position or office, as a cardinal's biretta; mortarboard
cape a cloth that fits closely at the neck and hangs loosely over the shoulders by itself
or as part of a garment
capelet a small cape usually covering the shoulders
capote a usually long and hooded cloak or overcoat
capped sleeve short sleeve which peaks over shoulder like a small cap
capri pants close-fitting women's pants that end above the ankle [Also called capris]
Generally worn in warm weather climates.
capuche hood, especially the cowl of a Capuchin friar
capuchin a hooded cloak for women
carcanet [Archaic] an ornamental necklace, chain, collar, or headband
car coat a three-quarter-length overcoat.
cardigan a usually collarless sweater or jacket that opens the full length of the centre
front
cardinal a woman's short hooded cloak originally of scarlet cloth
cartridge belt a belt worn around the waist for attaching various equipment, as a
cartridge case, canteen, or compass
casque a piece of armour for the head, helmet
cassock a close-fitting ankle-length garment worn especially in Roman Catholic and
Anglican churches by the clergy and by laymen assisting in services
castor a beaver hat
ceinture a belt or sash for the waist
cestus a hand covering of leather bands often loaded with lead or iron and used by
boxers in ancient Rome
chador a large cloth worn as a combination head covering, veil, and shawl by Muslim
women especially in Iran

chanel short hip length straight styled jacket synonymous with the original jackets styled
by Coco Chanel
chastity belt a belt device, as of medieval times, designed to prevent sexual intercourse
on the part of the woman wearing it
chasuble a sleeveless outer vestment worn by the officiating priest at mass
chaussure footgear; [Plural] shoes.
chemise a woman's one-piece undergarment; a loose straight-hanging dress
chemisette a woman's garment, especially one, as of lace, to fill the open front of a
dress
cheongsam an oriental dress with a slip skirt and a mandarin collar
chesterfield a single-breasted or double-breasted semifitted overcoat with velvet collar
chimere a loose sleeveless robe worn by Anglican bishops over the rochet
chinos casual men's trousers made from chino fabric (British), called "khakis" in
America.
chiton the basic garment of ancient Greece worn usually knee-length by men and full-
length by women
chlamys a short oblong mantle worn by young men of ancient Greece
choker something, as a collar or a necklace, worn closely about the throat or neck
choli a short blouse usually worn with a saree or a lengha. You can vary the collar,
sleeve and length as you choose. A traditional garment worn in India
chopine a shoe with a very high sole designed to increase stature and protect the feet
from mud and dirt worn by women in the 16th and 17th centuries
chrisom a white cloth or robe put on a person at baptism as a symbol of innocence
chukka a usually ankle-length leather boot with two or three pairs of eyelets or a buckle
and strap
chunni or dupatta a scarf or wrap worn with most Indian garments. The item can be
plain or embellished with embroidery. Traditional garment from India.
churidhar fitted pants with deliberate snugness around the calf and ankle with
gatherings and hooks for fastening. Traditional garment from India.
cincture girdle, belt; especially, a cord or sash worn around an ecclesiastical vestment,
as an alb or religious habit
clerical collar a narrow upright white collar worn buttoned at the back of the neck by
members of the clergy
cloak a loose outer garment
cloche a woman's small close-fitting hat usually with deep rounded crown and very
narrow brim
clodhopper a large heavy work shoe or boot.
clog a shoe, sandal, or overshoe having a thick typically wooden sole
cloque a fabric with an embossed design; a fabric especially of piqué with small woven
figures.
Clover leaf lapels that are curved into rounded points instead of sharp edges
clutch clutch bag
clutch bag a woman's small usually strapless handbag
coat an outer garment worn on the upper body and varying in length and style
according to fashion and use
coatdress a dress styled like a cost usually with a front buttoning from neckline to
hemline
coating coat, covering. Cloth for coats.
coat of mail a garment of metal scales or chain mail worn as armour

Cocktail Dress A cocktail dress or cocktail gown is a shorter-length lady's gown worn at
cocktail parties and other semi-formal and formal occasions.
Codpiece A codpiece is a flap or pouch that attaches to the front of the crotch of men's
trousers to provide a covering for the genitals. It would be held closed by string ties,
buttons, or other methods
Coif a close-fitting cap; a hood-like cap worn under a veil by nuns; a protective usually
metal skullcap formerly worn under a hood of mail; a white cap formerly worn by English
lawyers and especially by serjeants-at-law
comforter a long narrow usually knitted neck scarf
commode a woman's ornate cap popular in the late 17th and early 18th centuries
coolie hat a conical-shaped usually straw hat worn especially to protect the head from
the heat of the sun
coonskin an article, as a cap or coat, made of coonskin
cope a long enveloping ecclesiastical vestment
corduroys trousers of corduroy fabric, namely a durable usually cotton pile fabric with
vertical ribs or wales coronal a circlet for the head usually implying rank or dignity
coronet an ornamental wreath or band for the head usually for wear by women on
formal occasions
corselet a piece of armour covering the trunk but usually not the arms or the legs; a
combination girdle and brassiere
corselette an undergarment combining girdle and brassiere
corset a usually close-fitting and often laced medieval jacket; a woman's close-fitting
boned supporting undergarment that is often hooked and laced and extends from the
torso to below the hips and has garters attached
cossie slang term for bathing costume
costume an outfit worn to create the appearance characteristic of a particular period,
person, place, or thing; a person's ensemble of outer garments, especially a woman's
ensemble of dress with coat or jacket
cothurnus a high thick-soled laced boot worn by actors in Greek and Roman tragic
drama [Also called, cothurn]
cotta a waist-length surplice
cowl neck neckline which drapes in large folds
crash helmet a helmet that is worn, as by motorcyclists, as protection for the head in
the event of an accident
cravat a band or scarf worn around the neck; necktie
crease pressed line in garment
crew neck a sweater with a crew neck, namely a round collarless neckline
crew sock a short bulky usually ribbed sock.
crop top a very short women's top ending just below the breasts; a tank-style brassiere
cropped to midriff length.
Cross-over a garment which crosses over in the front generally creating a v-neck
crown a royal or imperial headdress of cap of sovereignty, diadem
cuff hem of shirt sleeve
cuirass a piece of armour covering the body from neck to waist; also, the breastplate of
such a piece
cuisse a piece of plate armour for the front of the thigh
culet plate armour covering the buttocks
culotte a divided skirt; also, a garment having a divided skirt [Often used in plural]

cummerbund a broad waistband usually worn in place of a vest with men's dress
clothes and adapted in various styles of women's clothes. Traditionally worn with the
pleats facing up.
cup an athletic supporter reinforced usually with plastic to provide added protection for
the wearer
curch [Scottish] kerchief
cutaway a coat with skirts tapering from the front waistline to form tails at the back
cutoff [Plural] shorts originally made from jeans with the legs cut off at the knees or
higher
cutty sark [Chiefly Scottish] a short garment, especially a woman's short undergarment
décolletage a décolleté dress, namely a strapless dress or one with a plunging neckline
deep U the shape formed by a deep neckline. Not as deep as the décolletage.
derby a man's stiff felt hat with dome-shaped crown and narrow brim
dhoti draped garment for the lower trunk and legs, common throughout India, mostly
for men. Wrapped around the waist, tucked or knotted like a sarong (or bath towel) save
that the remaining fabric, often half or more of the total, is then pleated and wrapped
around the legs, then tucked in. Drapes vary by region and caste, from basically skirt-like
to tidy trouser-like arrangements. Traditional dhoti drapes and sari drapes blend into one
another; many saris draped without a petticoat start with a dhoti drape, but use a longer
cloth and drape the upper body with part of it.
diadem crown; specifically, a royal headband
diaper a fabric with a distinctive pattern; a rich silk fabric; a soft usually white linen or
cotton fabric used for tablecloths or towels. A basic garment for infants consisting of a
folder cloth or other absorbent material drawn up between the legs and fastened about
the waist
dinner jacket a jacket for formal evening wear
dirndl a dress with tight bodice, short sleeves, low neck, and gathered skirt; a full skirt
with a tight waistband
disguise apparel assumed to conceal one's identity or counterfeit another's
dishabille [Archaic] negligee
diving suit a waterproof suit with a removable helmet worn by a diver who is supplied
with air pumped through a tube
djellaba a long loose garment with full sleeves and a hood
dog collar [Slang] clerical collar; a wide flexible snug-fitting necklace
dolman sleeve A full sleeve that is very wide at the armhole and narrow at the wrist.
domino a long loose hooded cloak usually worn with a half mask as a masquerade
costume; a half mask worn over the eyes with a masquerade costume
donkey jacket [British] a jacket of heavy material worn especially by labourers
double breasted a jacket which has two rows of buttons vertically down the front doing
the jacket up across the body
double cuff the cuff on a shirt sleeve which folds back on itself
Doublet a man's close-fitting jacket worn in Europe especially during the Renaissance
Drndle/dirndl see dirndl
Drop – refers to a man’s suit and it is the difference in size between the jacket and the
trousers which make up a suit. A 12cm drop refers to a suit which has a 92cm trouser
with a 104cm jacket.

Dropped sleeve a sleeve where the had of the sleeve is down the arm and not sitting up
on the edge of the shoulder as if the sleeve has dropped off the shoulder.
Dropped waist apparent waist of garment hanging below the natural waist
dunce cap a conical cap formerly used as a punishment for slow learners at school
[Also called, dunce's cap]
dungaree clothes made usually of blue denim
earflap a warm covering for the ears, especially an extension on the lower edge of a cap
that may be folded up or down
earmuff one of a pair of ear coverings connected by a flexible band and worn as
protection against cold or noises
empire waist waist which begins immediately below the bust
Epaulet something that ornaments or protects the shoulder: An epaulet is an
ornamental fringed shoulder pad formerly worn as part of a military uniform. An epaulet
can also be an ornamental strip or loop sewn across the shoulder of a dress or coat.
ephod a linen apron worn in ancient Hebrew rites, especially a vestment for the high
priest
espadrille a sandal usually having a fabric upper and a flexible sole
eton collar a large stiff turnover collar
eton jacket a short black jacket with long sleeves, wide lapels, and an open front
eyeshade a visor that shields the eyes from strong light and is fastened on with a
headband
fall a very wide turned-down collar worn in the 17th century

fatigue [Plural] the uniform or work clothing worn on fatigue and in the field
fedora a low soft felt hat with the crown creased lengthwise
fez a brimless cone-shaped flat-crowned hat that usually has a tassel, is usually made
of red felt, and is worn especially by men in eastern Mediterranean countries
fichu a woman's light triangular scarf that is draped over the shoulders and fastened in
front or worn to fill in a low neckline
flak jacket a jacket containing metal plates for protection against flak; broadly, a bullet-
proof vest. [Also called, flak vest]
flapper dress style of the 1920’s which is fitted to the hips then falls with a handkerchief
hem
flared style which flares out from the top to the bottom
flat a shoe or slipper having a flat heel or no heel
flight suit a usually one-piece garment especially of fire-resistant fabric worn especially
by military aircrews
flip-flop a rubber sandal loosely fastened to the foot by a thong
flipper a flat rubber shoe with the front expanded into a paddle used in skin diving
French cuff – see double cuff
Full circle skirt which when on the ground lays out into a full circle.

gaberdine a coarse long loose outer garment worn in medieval times and especially by
Jews since the 16th century; an English labourer’s smock
gaiter a cloth or leather leg covering reaching from the instep to above the ankle or to
mid-calf or knee; an ankle-high shoe with elastic gores in the sides; and overshoe with
fabric upper
galligaskins loose hose or breeches worn in the 16th and 17th centuries; very loose
trousers; [Chiefly British] leggings
gallus [Chiefly dialectical] suspender [Usually used in plural]
galosh a high overshoe worn especially in snow and slush
gambando a horseman's legging
garb a style of apparel
garibaldi a woman's blouse copied from the red shirt worn by the Italian patriot
Garibaldi
garland wreath, chaplet
garment an article of clothing
garrison cap a visor-less folding cap worn as part of a military uniform [Compare
service cap]
garter a band worn to hold up a stocking or sock; a band worn to hold up a shirt sleeve
gaskin [Plural & Obsolete] hose, breeches
gathered the act of gathering or pinching the fabric together.
gaucho ¾ length pants generally in a winter weight fabric often worn with boots
gauntlet a glove worn with medieval armour to protect the hand; any of various
protective gloves used especially in industry; a dress glove extending above the wrist
geneva bands two strips of white cloth suspended from the front of a clerical collar and
sometimes used by Protestant clergymen [Also called Geneva tabs]
geneva gown a loose large-sleeved black academic gown widely used as a vestment
by members of the Protestant clergy
geta a Japanese wooden clog for outdoor wear
gillie a shoe with a low top and decorative lacing
girdle an article of dress encircling the body usually at the waist; a woman's close-fitting
undergarment often boned and usually elasticized that extends from the waist to below
the hips
girth a band or strap that encircles the body of an animal to fasten something, as a
saddle, on its back
glad rags dressy clothes
Glengarry a woollen cap of Scottish origin
Glove a covering for the hand having separate sections for each of the fingers and the
thumb and often extending part way up the arm; gauntlet
gore triangular panel of a skirt
gorge the seam on the front of a jacket where the collar and the jacket join
gorget a piece of armour protecting the throat; an ornamental collar; part of a wimple
covering throat and shoulders
gown a loose flowing outer garment formerly worn by men; a distinctive robe worn by a
professional or academic person; a woman's dress; dressing gown; nightgown, wedding-
gown; a coverall worn in an operating room
granny dress a long loose-fitting dress usually with high neck and long sleeves
greatcoat a heavy overcoat
greave armour for the leg below the knee
Grecian one shouldered garment

g-string a strip of cloth passed between the legs and supported by a waist cord
g-suit a suit designed to counteract the physiological effects of acceleration on an
aviator or astronaut
guayabera The Guayabera Shirt (gwai-a-Ber-a) is one of the most authentic symbols of
Latin Culture. They are made of light fabrics to weather tropical heat. Distinctive for its
two vertical pleats, four spacious pockets and embroidery detail in a variety of fashion
colours. Usually short-sleeved (but also designed in long sleeve) lightweight sport shirt
designed to be worn un-tucked.
guimpe a blouse worn under a jumper or pinafore
gum boot a rubber boot
habergeon a medieval jacket of mail shorter than a hauberk; hauberk

habiliments the dress characteristic of an occupation or occasion
habit a costume characteristic of a calling, rank, or function; a costume worn for
horseback riding
haik a voluminous piece of usually white cloth worn as an outer garment in northern
Africa
hair shirt a shirt made of rough animal hair worn next to the skin as a penance
half boot a boot with a top reaching above the ankle and ending below the knee
half-slip a topless slip with an elasticized waistband
halter garment which ties around the neck leaving the arms and shoulders bare
Handbag a bag held in the hand or hung form a shoulder strap and used for carrying
small personal articles and money
handkerchief a small usually square piece of cloth used for various usually personal
purposes, as blowing the nose or wiping the eyes, or as an accessory on one's attire
hankie handkerchief
hap [Dialectical] something, as a cloak, that serves as a covering or wrap
hard hat a protective hat made of rigid material, as metal or fibreglass, and worn
especially by construction workers
harem pants women's loose trousers that fit closely at the ankle
hat a covering for the head usually having a shaped crown and brim. Headwear.
Haute couture: specialised designs made by the world top designers
hauberk a tunic of chain mail worn as defensive armour from the 12th to the 14th
centuries
havelock a covering attached to a cap to protect the neck from the sun or bad weather
haversack a bag similar to a knapsack but worn over one shoulder
hawaiian shirt a usually short-sleeved sport shirt with a colourful pattern
head of sleeve –the top seam of a sleeve where it meets the shoulder
headband a band worn on or around the head
headdress an often elaborate covering for the head
headgear a covering or protective device for the head
headpiece a protective or defensive head covering; an ornamental, ceremonial, or
traditional covering for the head
Heart Shaped or Butterfly Headress : This Head dress looked like wings had been
attached on the sides. A Veil was worn over it, and many times a caul would be worn
underneath.
helm helmet

helmet a covering or enclosing headpiece of ancient or medieval armour; any of various

protective head coverings usually made of a hard material to resist impact
hessian boot a high boot that extends to just below the knee and is commonly
ornamented with a tassel and that was introduced into England by the Hessians early in
the 19th century
high heels shoes with high heels
Hijab is the modern word for the practice of dressing modestly, which all practicing
Muslims past the age of puberty are instructed to do in their holy book, the Qur'an. No
precise dress code for men or women is set out in the Qur'an (the most specific part
being 33:59 mentioning that believers "draw their cloaks close round them (when they go
out)"), and various Islamic scholars have interpreted the meaning of hijab in different
ways. The basic requirements are that when in the presence of someone of the opposite
sex other than a "close family member" (Mahram), a woman should cover her body, and
walk and dress in a way which does not draw sexual attention to her, and that a man
should be covered from at least the navel to the knees, and similarly not wear figure-
hugging clothes that draw sexual attention to him.
himation a rectangular cloth draped over the left shoulder and about the body and worn
as a garment in ancient Greece
hip boot a waterproof boot reaching to the hips
hip hang a shirt which hangs around the hips
hip stitched skirt where the pleats are stitched to below the hips.
hobble skirt a skirt constricted at the bottom
homburg a man's felt hat with a stiff curled brim and a high crown creased lengthwise
hood a flexible covering for the head and neck; a protective covering for the head and
face; an ornamental scarf worn over an academic gown that indicates by its colour the
wearer's college or university
hoopskirt a skirt stiffened with as if with hoops
hose a cloth leg covering that sometimes covers the foot; stocking, sock; a close-fitting
garment covering the legs and waist that is usually attached to a doublet by points; short
breeches reaching to the knee
hosiery hose; leg coverings either sheer or opaque
housecoat a woman's often long-skirted informal garment for wear around the house
housedress a dress with simple lines that is suitable for housework and is made
usually of a washable fabric
huarache a low-heeled sandal having an upper made of interwoven leather strips
hug-me-tight a woman's short usually knitted sleeveless close-fitting jacket.
humeral veil an oblong vestment worn around the shoulders and over the hands by a
priest holding a sacred vessel
ice skate a shoe with a metal runner attached for ice-skating

inverness a loose belted coat having a cape with a close-fitting round collar
jabot fall of lace or cloth attached to the front of a man's neckband (18th c.); pleated frill
of cloth or lace attached down the centre front of a woman's dress or blouse

jackboot a heavy military boot made of glossy black leather extending above the knee
and worn especially during the 17th and 18th centuries; a laceless military boot reaching
to the calf
jacket a garment for the upper body usually having a front opening, collar, lapels,
sleeves, and pockets
jambeau a piece of medieval armour for the leg below the knee
jean a durable twilled cotton cloth used especially for sportswear and work clothes.
Close-fitting pants made especially of jean or denim [Usually used in plural]
jerkin a close-fitting hip-length usually sleeveless jacket
jersey see windcheater, jumper
jockstrap male athletic support
jodhpur [Plural] riding breeches cut full through the hips and close-fitting from knee to
ankle; an ankle-high boot fastened with a strap that is buckled at the side [Also called,
jodhpur boot]
johnny a short-sleeved collarless gown that is open in the back and is worn by persons,
as hospital patients, undergoing medical examination or treatment
joseph [Latin] a long cloak worn especially by women in the 18th century
jump boot a boot worn especially by paratroopers
jumper a loose blouse or jacket worn by workmen; a sleeveless one-piece dress worn
usually with a blouse; a child's overall [Usually used in plural]; [Chiefly British] sweater
jumpsuit a coverall worn by parachutists for jumping; a one-piece garment consisting of
a blouse or shirt with attached trousers or shorts
kaffiyeh an Arab headdress consisting of a square of cloth folded to form a triangle and
held on by a cord
kameez a long tunic about knee-length or beyond. The tunic is worn over pants or skirt
and can be designed in a number of styles. Traditional garment from India.
kaross a simple garment of skins used especially by native tribesmen of southern
Africa
kepi a military cap with a round flat top sloping toward the front and a visor
kerchief a square of cloth used as a head covering or worn as a scarf around the neck
key hole: small opening like keyhole in front of top
kid glove a dress glove made of kid leather
kilt a knee-length pleated skirt usually of tartan, namely a twilled woollen fabric with a
plaid textile design consisting of stripes of varying width and colour usually patterned to
designate a distinctive clan and worn by men in Scotland and by Scottish regiments in
the British armies; a garment that resembles a Scottish kilt
kiltie a shoe with a long slashed tongue that folds over the instep
Kimono a long robe with wide sleeves traditionally worn with a broad sash as an outer
garment by the Japanese; a loose dressing gown or jacket
kirtle a tunic or coat worn by men especially in the Middle Ages; a long gown or dress
worn by women
knee breeches breeches
kneesock a knee-high sock
knickerbockers knickers
knickers loose-fitting short pants gathered at the knee
knife pleats tiny close pleats the width of a knife on a skirt.

knitwear knitted clothing
lacha a long skirt and tunic combination along with a chunni makes up a complete set.
Traditional garment from India.
lambrequin a scarf used to cover a knight's helmet
Lapels In standard office-type jackets, each of the two triangular pieces of cloth which
are folded back below the throat, leaving a triangular opening between
larrigan an oil-tanned moccasin with a leg often reaching the knee
latchet a narrow leather strap, thong, or lace that fastens a shoe or sandal on the foot
laurel a crown of laurel
lavalava a rectangular cloth of cotton print worn like a kilt or skirt in Polynesia and
especially in Samoa
lederhosen leather shorts often with suspenders worn especially in Bavaria
legging a covering, as of leather or cloth, for the leg, usually used in plural; also, tights
leghorn a hat made of leghorn straw, namely a fine plaited straw made from an Italian
wheat
leg warmer a usually knitted covering for the leg
lei a wreath or necklace usually of flowers or leaves
leisure suit a suit consisting of a shirt jacket and matching trousers for informal wear
lengha a long full skirt. Traditional garment from India.
lengha/choli a long skirt and and blouse combination along with a chunni makes up a
complete set. Traditional garment from India.
leotard a close-fitting one-piece garment worn especially by dancers, acrobats, and
aerialists; also tights [Often used in plural]
liberty cap a close-fitting conical cap used as a symbol of liberty by French
revolutionists and in the US before 1800
lid [Slang] hat
life jacket a life preserver in the form of a buoyant vest
life vest life jacket
Lingerie women's intimate apparel
liripipe tippet, scarf
livery the distinctive clothing or badge formerly worn by the retainers of a person of
rank; servant's uniform; distinctive dress, garb
Loafer™ Trademark: Used for a low step-in shoe
loincloth a cloth worn about the loins often as the sole article of clothing in warm
climates
long johns long underwear
lounger an article of clothing designed for comfort and leisure use
lounge suit [Chiefly British] business suit
loungewear informal clothing usually designed to be worn at home
mackintosh [Chiefly British] raincoat. A lightweight waterproof fabric originally of

rubberized cotton.
mae west an inflatable life jacket in the form of a collar extending down the chest worn
by fliers in World War II

maillot tights for dancers or gymnasts; jersey; a woman's one-piece bathing suit
mandarin collar a narrow stand-up collar usually open in front
manta a square piece of cloth or blanket used in southwestern U.S. and Latin America
usually as a cloak or shawl
manteau a loose cloak, coat, or robe
mantle a loose sleeveless garment worn over other clothes, cloak
mantelet a very short cape or cloak
mantilla a light scarf worn over the head and shoulders especially by Spanish and
Latin-American women; a short light cape or coat
mantua a usually loose-fitting gown especially in the 17th and 18th centuries
mask a cover or partial cover for the face used for disguise
maxi a long skirt, dress, or coat
merry widow a strapless corset or bustier usually having garters attached
mess jacket a fitted waist-length man's jacket worn especially as part of a dress
uniform
micromini a very short miniskirt
middy a loosely fitting blouse with a sailor collar worn by women and children
midi a dress, skirt, or coat that usually extends to the mid-calf
midriff a woman's garment that exposes the midriff
millinery women's apparel for the head
miniskirt a woman's short skirt with the hemline several inches above the knee
miter a liturgical headdress worn by bishops and abbots (Also mitre)
miterfolds (label) are normally used in jerseys, bathrobes and outerwear and add
functionality to the label by allowing it to be used as a hanger for the garment.
mitt a woman's glove that leaves the fingers uncovered; mitten
mitten a covering for the hand and wrist having a separate section for the thumb only
Mobcap a woman's fancy indoor cap made with a high full crown and often tied under
the chin. A mob-cap is a gathered cloth cap, sometimes with ribbon trim, worn by
servants during Victorian times
moccasin a soft leather heelless shoe or boot with the sole brought up the sides of the
foot and over the toes where it is joined with a puckered seam to a U-shaped piece lying
on top of the foot; a regular shoe having a seam on the forepart of the vamp imitating the
seam of a moccasin
monkey jacket mess jacket
montero a round hunter's cap with ear flaps
morion a high-crested helmet with no visor
morning coat or cutaway is a man's coat worn as the principal item in morning dress.
First appearing as an alternative to the frock coat, it has become increasingly rarely worn
since the 19th century, and today is normally only seen at weddings, very formal
funerals and, in England, race meetings such as Royal Ascot and the Derby. Also, the
United States Solicitor General typically wears it when arguing before the United States
Supreme Court.
A morning coat is a single-breasted coat, the front parts usually meeting at one button in
the middle, and curving away into a pair of tails behind. The lapels are usually peaked,
not notched, and there are two buttons in the back of the waist. The coat can be grey, as
part of a morning suit, or black, in which case it is usually worn with striped trousers
Morning dress is a particular category of men's formal dress. Outside of court dress, it
is the most formal type of clothing worn. Despite the name, it may be worn at any time

before 5 PM; however, many are wearing this clothing style later. The correct equivalent
formal dress for evening occasions, after 5pm, is white tie (see evening dress).
Morning dress consists of:
a morning coat,
a waistcoat which may be single- or double-breasted,
a pair of formal trousers, worn with braces
a double-cuffed shirt,
a stiff white collar,
a cravat or tie (some people, particularly at weddings, prefer an ascot),
black formal shoes.
A black silk or grey top hat, which may be omitted
Suitably formal gloves in suede, chamois or kid may also be worn.
The coat is usually black, in which case the trousers will almost always be grey striped.
Alternatively, a morning suit of grey coat, waistcoat and trousers can be worn. The latter
is especially popular on the Thursday of the Royal Ascot race meeting.
The waistcoat was for many years almost always grey, with buff or white as alternatives.
Nowadays coloured and patterned waistcoats are sometimes seen, but these are really
only suitable for weddings. A black waistcoat is the most formal option, being worn for
funerals, memorial services and with academic dress. Sometimes a white slip, an under-
waistcoat just showing inside the top opening of the waistcoat, is worn.
The trousers should not have turn-ups, and should have one pleat to each leg. Braces
should be worn to prevent the waistband from appearing beneath the waistcoat.
The shirt should have double cuffs fastened with cufflinks. It would normally, and most
formally, be white, but if a coloured or striped shirt is worn, the cuffs should ideally be
white. A white stiff collar is worn, normally of the plain turned-down variety, though with
an Ascot a wing collar is worn.
Previously, a grey or (if at a funeral) black tie was obligatory. Now all colours are worn.
Shoes should be of the traditional, Oxford type, black, and highly polished or of patent
leather. Spats were once frequently seen with morning dress, but are now rarely worn.
mortar board an academic cap consisting of a closely fitting headpiece with a broad flat
projecting square top
mother hubbard a loose usually shapeless dress
mozzetta a short cape with a small ornamental hood worn over the rochet by Roman
Catholic prelates
muff a warm tubular covering for the hands
muffler a scarf worn around the neck
mukluk a sealskin or reindeer-skin boot worn by Eskimos; a boot often of duck with a
soft leather sole and worn over several pairs of socks
mule a shoe or slipper without quarter or heel strap
musette a small knapsack; also, a similar bag with one shoulder strap [Called also
musette bag
neckerchief a kerchief for the neck

necktie a narrow length of material worn about the neck and tied in front
Neckwear articles of clothing, as ties and scarves, worn about the neck
negligee a woman's long flowing usually sheer dressing gown; careless informal or
incomplete attire

nehru jacket named after Jawaharial Nehru, the first Prime Minister of independent
India. The jacket was well known for its lack of lapels and lack of a collar.
newmarket a long close-fitting coat worn in the 19th century
nightcap a cloth cap worn with nightclothes
nightclothes garments for wear in bed
nightdress nightgown; nightclothes
nightgown a loose garment for wear in bed
nightie a nightgown for a woman or child
night rail [Archaic] nightgown
nightshirt a nightgown resembling a shirt
norfolk jacket a loose-fitting belted single-breasted jacket with box pleats
nosepiece a piece of armour for protecting the nose
notched collar suit lapel which has a triangle point missing from the line formed when
the two pieces of the lapel are sewn together.
obi a broad sash worn especially with a Japanese kimono

old school tie a necktie displaying the colours of an English public school
opera hat a man's collapsible top hat
open sleeve long sleeve which falls open at the wrist
orphrey an ornamental border or band especially on an ecclesiastical vestment
outercoat coat
outerwear clothing for outdoor wear.
outfit wearing apparel with accessories usually for a special occasion or activity
overall [Archaic] loose protective trousers worn over regular clothes; [Plural] trousers
of strong material usually with a bib and shoulder straps; [Chiefly British] a loose-fitting
protective smock worn over regular clothes
overblouse a usually fitted or belted blouse worn un-tucked
overcoat a warm coat worn over indoor clothing
overgarment an outer garment
overshirt a shirt usually worn over another shirt without being tucked in
overskirt a skirt worn over another skirt
overshoe an outer shoe, especially a galosh
oxford a low shoe laced or tied over the instep.
oxford cloth A soft durable cotton or synthetic fabric with a silky lustre made in plain or
basket weaves; also called. Warp has two fine yarns which travel as one and one
heavier softly-spun bulky filling which gives it a basket-weave look. Better qualities are
mercerized. rather heavy. Usually is all white but some has a spaced stripe in the warp
direction. Launders very well but soils easily. When made with yarn dyed warp and
white weft, it is called oxford chambray. The one remaining commercial shirting material
made originally by a Scotch mill which bore the names of four Universities - Oxford,
Cambridge, Harvard, and Yale.
pack a bundle arranged for convenience in carrying especially on the back

packsack a case, as of canvas, held on the back by shoulder straps and used to carry
gear when travelling on foot

palatine a fur cape or stole covering the neck and shoulders

palazzo wide legged trousers
paletot a man's overcoat; a loose jacket worn by women and children
pall pallium
pallette one of the plates at the armpits of a suit of armour
pallium a white woollen band with pendants in front and back worn over the chasuble
by a pope or archbishop as a symbol of full Episcopal authority; a rectangular cloth worn
as a cloak by men of ancient Greece and Rome
panama a lightweight hat of natural-coloured straw hand-plaited of narrow strips from
the young leaves of the jipijapa
pannier an overskirt draped at the sides of a skirt for an effect of fullness
panoply a full suit of armour; ceremonial attire
pant an outer garment covering each leg separately and usually extending from the
waist to the ankle [Usually used in plural]; [Chiefly British] men's underpants;
pantalets long loose drawers frilled at the ankle and showing beneath the skirt worn by
mid-19th century women
pantaloons wide breeches worn especially in England during the reign of Charles II;
close-fitting trousers usually having straps passing under the instep and worn especially
in the 19th century; loose-fitting usually shorter than ankle-length trousers
pantdress a dress having a divided skirt
pantie a woman's or child's undergarment covering the lower trunk with a closed crotch
[Usually used in plural]
pantie girdle a woman's girdle having a sewed-in or detachable crotch and made with
or without garters and bones
pantofle slipper
pantsuit a woman's ensemble consisting usually of a long jacket and tailored pants of
the same material
pantyhose panty hose pant·y·hose [pántee hoz] or pant·y hose or pan·ti·hose plural
noun
Clothing for covering the legs: A one-piece undergarment consisting of hosiery
combined with panties. Called "trunk hose" in medieval times.
panty waist originally a child's two-piece undergarment that buttoned together at the
waist
pareu a wraparound skirt usually made from a rectangular piece of printed cloth and
worn by men and women throughout Polynesia; the Tahitian equivalent of the Samoan
lavalava
parfleche a case or robe made of parfleche, namely rawhide with hair removed by
soaking in water and lye
parka a hooded fur pullover garment for arctic wear; a usually lined fabric outerwear
pullover or jacket
partlet a 16th century chemisette with a band or collar
patten a clog, sandal, or overshoe often with a wooden sole or metal device to elevate
the foot and increase the wearer's height or aid in walking in mud
pauldron a piece of plate armour to protect the shoulder
pea coat/jacket a heavy woollen double-breasted jacket originally worn by sailors [Also
called, pea coat]
peaked lapel upward pointing lapel on a jacket
pedal pushers women's and girls' calf-length trousers
peg top peg trousers

peignoir a woman's loose negligee or dressing gown

pelerine a woman's narrow cape made of fabric or fur and usually with long ends
hanging down in front
pelisse a long cloak or coat made of fur or lined or trimmed with fur; a woman's loose
lightweight cloak with wide collar and fur trimming
peplos a garment worn like a shawl by women of ancient Greece
peplum short section attached to waistline of a blouse, jacket, or dress
periwig see peruke
peruke wig, specifically one of a type popular from the 17th to the early 19th century
petasos a broad-brimmed low-crowned hat worn by ancient Greeks and Romans, e.
g., the winged hat of Hermes
peter pan collar a usually small flat close-fitting collar with rounded ends that meet in
front
petticoat a skirt worn by women, girls, or young children as an outer skirt, a fancy skirt
made to show below a draped-up overskirt, or an underskirt usually a little shorter than
outer clothing and often made with a ruffled, pleated, or lace edge; a garment
characteristic or typical of women
phylactery either of two small square leather boxes containing slips inscribed with
scriptural passages and traditionally worn on the left arm and on the head by Jewish
men during morning weekday prayers
Placket generally a piece of fabric sewn into the opening of a garment where it fastens
to strengthen it
Pleated trousers with a pleat in the fabric held by the waist band
Poet sleeve full sleeve gathered at wrist
Pointed down collar downward pointing lapel points on a jacket
pressure suit an inflatable suit for high-altitude or space flight to protect the body from
low pressure
prêt-a-porter ready-to-wear
prince albert a double-breasted frock coat with the upper part fitted to the body.
Princess seam seams which begin at the armhole allowing for the garment to be
shaped to allow for fullness at the bust and sometimes continuing down to allow for a
slimmer waist
prunella a twilled woollen dress fabric; a heavy woollen fabric used for the upper of
shoes.
Puffed sleeve a short sleeve which is gathered and sits on the top of the arm puffed out.
puggaree a light scarf wrapped around a sun helmet or used as a hatband
pullover a pullover garment, as a sweater
pump a shoe that grips the foot chiefly at the toe and heel, especially a close-fitting
woman's dress shoe with a moderate to high heel
purse a small bag for money
puttee a cloth strip wrapped around the leg from ankle to knee; a usually leather laced,
strapped, or catched legging
pyjamas loose lightweight trousers formerly much worn in the Near East; a loose
usually two-piece lightweight suit designed for sleeping or lounging
rabato a wide lace-edged collar of the early 17th century often stiffened to stand high at
the back

raglan sleeve sleeve with heads starting at the collar and going diagonally to the armpit
raincoat a coat of waterproof or water-resistant material
rainwear waterproof or water-resistant clothing
rebozo a long scarf worn chiefly by Mexican women
redingote a fitted outer garment such as a double-breasted coat with wide flat cuffs and
collar worn by 18th century men; a woman's lightweight coat open at the front; a dress
with a front gore of contrasting material
reefer a close-fitting usually double-breasted jacket or coat of thick cloth.
regimentals a regimental uniform; military dress
reticule a woman's drawstring bag used especially as a carryall
ring a circlet usually of precious metal worn on the finger
rise the distance from the crotch to the waistband
riserivet metal tack or burr originally invented by Mr. Levi (Levi's) for securing the pocket
sides.
rivière a necklace of precious stones, as diamonds
robe a long flowing outer garment, especially one used for ceremonial occasions or as a
symbol of office or profession; a loose garment, as a bathrobe, for informal wear
especially at home
robe de chambre dressing gown
rochet a white linen vestment resembling a surplice with close-fitting sleeves worn
especially by bishops and privileged prelates
roller skate a shoe with a set of wheels attached for skating over a flat surface
roman collar clerical collar
romper a garment especially for children with the lower part shaped like bloomers
roquelaure a knee-length cloak worn especially in the 18th and 19th centuries
roundabout a short close-fitting jacket worn by men and boys especially in the 19th
century
roundelle A donut shaped fabric stuffed head dress worn with a veil by women in the
14th and 15th Centuries.
ruana a woollen covering resembling a poncho
ruff a large round collar of pleated muslin or linen worn in the late 16th and early 17th
centuries
ruffle a strip of frilled or closely pleated fabric used for trimming or decoration
sabot a European wooden shoe; a shoe having a sabot strap, namely a strap across the
instep in a sandal type shoe
sack a woman's loose-fitting dress; a short usually loose-fitting coat for women and
children
sacque an infant's usually short jacket that fastens at the neck
saddle shoe an oxford-style shoe having a saddle of contrasting colour or leather [Also
called, saddle oxford]
safari jacket a usually belted shirt jacket with pleated expansible pockets
safety cloths fireproof
sailor a stiff straw hat with a low flat crown and straight circular brim
sailor collar a broad collar having a square flap across the back and tapering to a V in
the front

sailor square a square cut top which hangs without any shape into the body
sallet without a visor and with a projection over the neck
salwar wide loose pants with a reinforced cuff and a drawstring usually worn with a long
tunic
sam browne a leather belt for a dress uniform supported by a light strap passing over
the right shoulder
samite a rich medieval silk fabric interwoven with gold and silver.
sanbenito a sackcloth, namely, a coarse cloth of camel's hair or cotton, coat worn by
penitents on being reconciled to the church; a Spanish Inquisition garment resembling a
scapular and being either yellow with red crosses for the penitent or black with painted
devils and flames for the impenitent condemned to an auto-da-fé
sandal a shoe consisting of a sole strapped to the foot; a low-cut shoe that fastens by
an ankle strap; a rubber overshoe cut very low
sand shoe [Chiefly Australian and New Zealand] tennis shoe
saree or sari lightweight cloth draped so that one end forms a skirt or pyjama and the
other a head or shoulder covering. A piece of fabric about 6 yards in width and 44" in
length which worn wrapped strategically around the body over a skirt petticoat and a
choli. Worn by Indian and south Asian women.
sari / saree lightweight cloth draped so that one end forms a skirt or pyjama and the
other a head or shoulder covering. A piece of fabric about 6 yards in width and 44" in
length which worn wrapped strategically around the body over a skirt petticoat and a
choli. Worn by Indian and south Asian women.
sark [Dialectical & Chiefly British] shirt
sarong a loose garment made of a long strip of cloth wrapped around the body and
worn as a skirt or dress by men and women chiefly of the Malay archipelago and the
Pacific islands. SARONG - also called a PAREO, a wraparound, pareau (Tahiti),
pakome(Thailand), lava-lava (Samoa), kain (Indonesia), sulu (Fiji), canga (Brazil), malo
(Tonga), lunghi, etc. - is a piece of fabric, approximately 45 X 75 inches = 120 X 190
cms. It is the traditional clothing for both women and men in Indonesia and is also worn
every day on islands all over the South Pacific and in many countries of South-east Asia
- especially Malaysia and Thailand. Sarongs are generally produced by the BATIK
process. A fshion version skirt which wraps around the body and ties closed.
sash a band worn about the waist or over one shoulder and used as an accessory or
emblem of a military order
satchel a small bag often with a shoulder strap
scanties abbreviated panties for women.
scapular a long wide band of cloth worn front and back over the shoulders as part of a
monastic habit
scarf a military or official sash usually indicative of rank; [Archaic] tippet; a broad band of
cloth worn about the shoulders, around the neck, or over the head; a military or official
sash usually indicative of rank
scoop neck rounded neckline
scuff a flat-soled slipper without quarter or heel strap [Compare mule]
seaboot a very high waterproof boot used especially by sailors and fishermen
seal ring a finger ring engraved with a seal; signet ring
self-belt a belt made of the same material as the garment with which it is worn
separate an article of dress worn interchangeably with others to form various
combinations. For example, a suit separate. [Usually used in plural]
serape a colourful woollen shawl worn over the shoulders often found worn in Mexico.

service cap a flat-topped visor cap worn as part of a military uniform [Compare garrison
cap]
shako a stiff military hat with a high crown and plume
Shawl a square or oblong usually fabric garment or wrapper used especially as a
covering for the head or shoulders
shawl collar an attached collar rolled back in a continuous tapering line that follows the
surplice neckline of a garment
sheath a woman's close-fitting dress usually work without a belt
shell a plain usually sleeveless blouse or sweater
shell jacket a short tight military jacket worn buttoned up the front; mess jacket
shift a woman's slip or chemise; a woman's usually loose-fitting or semifitted dress
shimmy chemise
shirt a garment for the upper part of the body; a cloth garment usually having a collar,
sleeves, a front opening, and a tail long enough to be tucked inside trousers or a skirt;
undershirt
shirtdress a tailored dress patterned after a shirt and having buttons down the front
shirt jacket a jacket designed in the style of a shirt [Also called, shirt-jac]
shirtwaist a woman's tailored garment, as a blouse or dress, with details copied from
men's shirts
shit kickers slang term for boots with steel toes (you may not find this one in two many
dictionaries...)
shoepac a waterproof laced boot worn especially over heavy socks in cold weather
Short knee-length or less than knee-length trousers; short drawers, shorts. A jam is
also a form of a short. Generally the jam is longer in length than a short.
shoulder bag a handbag looped over the shoulder by a strap
shovel hat a shallow-crowned hat with a wide brim curved up at the sides that is worn
by some clergymen
shrug a woman's small waist-length or shorter jacket
signet ring a finger ring engraved with a signet, seal, or monogram; seal ring
silk hat a hat with a tall cylindrical crown and a silk-plush finish worn by men as a dress
hat
single breasted a jacket which has a single column of buttons to do it up
singlet [Chiefly British] an athletic jersey, undershirt
skate roller skate; ice skate
ski boot a rigid padded shoe that extends just above the ankle, is securely fastened to
the foot, as with laces, buckles, or clasps, and is locked into position in a ski binding
ski mask a knit fabric mask that covers the head, has openings for the eyes, mouth, and
sometimes the nose, and is worn especially by skiers for protection from the cold
skimmer a usually straw flat-crowned hat with a wide straight brim; a fitted sleeveless
dress with a flaring skirt
skinny/ tapered trousers; trousers which come in tight at the ankle
skirt a separate free-hanging outer garment or undergarment usually worn by women
and girls covering some or all of the body from the waist down
skiwear clothing suitable for wear while skiing
skivvy men's underwear; especially a T-shirt and briefs or shorts [Usually used in plural]
skort this design features shorts covered by a front-wrap (and sometimes a back-wrap
also) skirt panel. Basically, the garment is a "short" that also takes the appearance of a
"skirt"
skullcap a close-fitting cap, especially a light cap without brim for indoor wear

slack trousers especially for casual wear (Usually used in plural tense)
sleepwear nightclothes
sleevelet a covering for the forearm to protect clothing from wear or dirt
slicker oilskin; broadly, a raincoat
slip an undergarment made in dress length with shoulder straps
slip-on an article of clothing that is easily slipped on or off; a glove or shoe without
fastenings; a garment, as a girdle, that one step into and pulls up; pullover
slip-over a garment or cover that slips on and off easily, specifically a pullover sweater
slipper a light low-cut shoe that is easily slipped on the foot
slouch hat a soft usually felt hat with a wide flexible brim. Made popular by Australian
soldiers
smallclothes close-fitting knee breeches worn in the 18th century; small garments, as
underwear or handkerchiefs
smock a light loose garment worn especially for protection of clothing while working
smock frock a loose outer garment worn by workmen especially in Europe
smoking jacket a loose-fitting jacket or short robe for wear at home
snap-brim a usually felt hat with brim turned up in back and down in front and with a
dented crown.
sneak sneaker
snood [Scottish] a fillet or band for a woman's hair; a net or fabric bag pinned or tied on
at the back of a woman's head for holding the hair
snowsuit a one-piece or two-piece lined garment for winter wear by children
snug hips dress which comes in and falls tight at the hips.
sock [Archaic] a low shoe or slipper; a knitted or woven covering for the foot usually
extending above the ankle and sometimes the knee; a shoe worn by actors in Greek and
Roman comedy
solleret a flexible steel shoe forming part of a medieval suit of armour
sombrero a high-crowned hat of felt or straw with a very wide brim worn especially in
the Southwest and Mexico
sou'wester a waterproof hat with wide slanting brim longer in back than in front
space suit a suit equipped with life supporting provisions to make life in space possible
for its wearer; G suit
spat a cloth or leather gaiter covering the instep and ankle [Short for spatterdash]
spencer a short waist-length jacket
spike [Plural] shoes with spike heels; [Plural] a pair of shoes with spikes attached to the
soles to improve traction
sportswear clothing suitable for recreation; broadly, clothing designed for casual or
informal wear
square neck a neckline which is shaped like a square having straight sides and a
straight bottom.
stand-up collar convertible collar which stands up behind the neck
stays an old type of corset.
step-in a garment put on by being stepped into, as a shoe or short panties for women
Stetson™ Trademark: Used for a broad-brimmed high-crowned felt hat
stock a wide band or scarf worn about the neck especially by some clergymen
stockinette a soft elastic usually cotton fabric used especially for bandages and infants'
wear.
stocking a usually knit close-fitting covering for the foot and leg; sock

stocking cap a long knitted cone-shaped cap with a tassel or pom-pom worn especially
for winter sports or play
stogie a stout coarse shoe, brogan.
stole a long loose garment, robe; an ecclesiastical vestment consisting of a long usually
silk band worn traditionally around the neck by bishops and priests and over the left
shoulder by deacons; a long wide scarf or similar covering worn by women usually
across the shoulders
stovepipe silk hat
straitjacket : Used as a devise to constrain the wearer. Often used on people that are
out of control, crazy, lost their marbles.
strophium an early bra worn in ancient Rome.
sweetheart neckline a low cut neckline with two curves over the bust making the bodice
look heart shaped
swimmers slang term for bathing costume
swing garment which falls loose from the armholes and will swing out from the body
tabard a short loose-fitting sleeveless or short-sleeved coat or cape, as a tunic worn by
a knight over his armour and emblazoned with his arms; a herald's official cape or coat
emblazoned with his lord's arms; a woman's sleeveless outer garment often with side
slits
tailcoat a coat with tails, especially a man's full-dress coat with two long tapering skirts
at the back.
tallith a fringed shawl worn over the head or shoulders by Jewish men especially during
morning prayers
tam-o'-shanter a Scottish woollen cap with a tight headband, wide flat circular crown,
and usually a pompon in the centre
tank abbreviated use of the word tank top; a sleeveless collarless shirt with usually wide
shoulder straps and no front opening. Example of a sentence using the word tank
tank suit a one-piece bathing suit with usually wide shoulder straps.
tank top a sleeveless collarless shirt with usually wide shoulder straps and no front
opening.
tap pants a loose-fitting woman's undergarment of a style similar to shorts formerly worn
for tap dancing
tasse one of a series of overlapping metal plates in a suit of armour that form a short
skirt below the waist
tarboosh a red hat similar to the fez worn especially by Muslim men
tea gown a semiformal fancy gown in graceful flowing lines worn especially for
afternoon entertaining at home
teddy a woman's one-piece undergarment, or chemise
tefillin the phylacteries worn by Jews
ten-gallon hat cowboy hat
tennies tennis shoes, sneakers
tennis shoe a lightweight usually low-cut sneaker. One of the many uses is for playing
tennis...
terai a wide-brimmed double felt sun hat worn especially in subtropical regions

thong a sandal held on the foot by a thong fitting between the toes and connected to a
strap across the top or around the sides of the foot. A thong is also a version of
underwear or swimwear.
throw a woman's scarf or light wrap.
tiara a three-tiered crown worn by the pope; a jewelled or flowered headband for formal
wear by women
tie neckwear
tiered skirt made in horizontal tiers of fabric, often the panels are gathered and create a
gypsy effect
tights a skin-tight garment covering the body from the neck or the waist down; panty
hose
tile hat, especially a high silk hat.
tin hat a metal helmet
tippet a shoulder cape of fur or cloth often with hanging ends; a long black scarf worn
over the robe by Anglican clergymen during morning and evening prayer
titfer [British] hat
toboggan a knit hat worn to keep the head warm in cold temperatures. (not to be
mistaken for a long sled.)
toga the loose outer garment worn in public by citizens of ancient Rome; also, a similar
loose wrap or a professional, official, or academic gown
top a garment worn on the upper body
top boot a high boot often with light-coloured leather bands around the upper part
topcoat a lightweight overcoat
topee a lightweight helmet-shaped hat made of pith or cork
top hat a tall-crowned hat usually of beaver or silk. However, they are also made of
other fabrics.
topknot an ornament, as a knot of ribbons or a pompom, forming a headdress or worn
as part of a coiffure; a crest of feathers or tuft of hair on the top of the head
topper silk hat; opera hat; a woman's usually short and loose-fitting lightweight outer
coat
Top-Sider™ Trademark: Used for a low casual shoe having a rubber sole
toque a woman's small hat without a brim made in any of various soft close-fitting
shapes
toy [Scottish] a linen or wool headdress depending to the shoulders once worn by old
women of the lower classes
tracksuit a suit of clothing consisting usually of a jacket and pants that is often worn by
athletes when working out / exercising.
trench trench coat
trench coat a waterproof overcoat with a removable lining; a double-breasted raincoat
with deep pockets, wide belt, and straps on the shoulders
trews pant, especially tight-fitting trousers usually of tartan; close-cut tartan shorts worn
under the kilt in Highland dress
tricorne cocked hat
trilby a soft felt hat with indented crown
trouser pant [Usually used in plural]
true waist garment where the waist falls on the true waist
trunk [Plural] men's' shorts worn chiefly for sports
trunk hose short full breeches reaching halfway down the thigh worn chiefly in the late
16th and early 17th centuries

T-shirt a collarless short-sleeved or sleeveless usually cotton undershirt; also, an outer

shirt of similar design
tube an article of clothing shaped like a tube, as tube top or tube socks
tuille one of the hinged plates before the thigh in plate armour
tulip sleeve or skirt shaped like an upside down tulip
tunic a simple slip-on garment made with or without sleeves and usually knee-length or
longer, belted at the waist and worn as an under or outer garment by men and women of
ancient Greece and Rome; surcoat; a long usually plain close-fitting jacket with high
collar worn especially as part of a uniform; tunicle; a short overskirt; a hip-length or
longer blouse or jacket
tunicle a short vestment worn by a subdeacon over the alb during mass and by a bishop
under the dalmatic at pontifical ceremonies
tuque a warm knitted usually pointed stocking cap
turban a headdress worn chiefly in countries of the eastern Mediterranean and southern
Asia especially by Muslims and made of a cap around which is wound a long cloth; a
headdress resembling a Muslim turban, specifically a woman's close-fitting hat without a
brim
turtleneck a high close-fitting turnover collar used especially for sweaters; a sweater
with a turtleneck
tutu a short projecting skirt worn by a ballerina
tuxedo a single-breasted or double-breasted usually black or blackish blue jacket
;formal evening clothes for men
twinset a combination of a matching pullover and cardigan worn together
two-piece a garment, as a bathing suit, that is two-piece
tyrolean hat a head covering marked by soft often green felt, a narrow brim and pointed
crown, and an ornamental feather
ulster a long loose overcoat of Irish origin made of heavy material, as frieze
undercoat a coat or jacket worn under another
underclothes underwear
underclothing underwear
underdrawers an article of underwear for the lower body
undergarment a garment to be worn under another
underpants short or long pants worn under an outer garment; drawers.
undershirt a collarless undergarment with or without sleeves
underskirt a skirt worn under an outer skirt, especially a petticoat
underwear clothing or an article of clothing worn next to the skin and under other
clothing. Boxer shorts, briefs, thongs, bikini, boxer briefs, panties etc.
undies another word for underwear. More of a slang word used in the English
language.
uniform dress of a distinctive design or fashion worn by members of a particular group
and serving as a means of identification; broadly, distinctive or characteristic clothing
uniform dress of a distinctive design or fashion worn by members of a particular group
and serving as a means of identification; broadly, distinctive or characteristic clothing
union suit an undergarment with shirt and drawers in one piece
unitard a close-fitting one-piece garment for the torso, legs, feet, and often the arms
unmentionable [Plural] pants, underwear.

uplift a brassiere designed to hold the breasts up. A term used for the word "bra". The
word "uplift" is rarely used in modern times.
vandyke a wide collar with a deeply indented edge

vanity a small handbag for toilet articles used by women
veil a length of cloth worn by women as a covering for the head and shoulders and often
for the face; specifically, the outer covering of a nun's headdress; a length of veiling or
netting worn over the head or face or attached for protection or ornament to a hat or
headdress. Traditionally worn by brides at weddings.
Vent – the flap, split or opening at the bottom of a jacket to allow movement
vertical cut seam or dart elongating body
vest a man's sleeveless garment for the upper body usually worn under a suit coat; also,
a similar garment for women; a protective usually sleeveless garment, as a life
preserver, that extends to the waist; an insulated sleeveless waist-length garment often
worn under or in place of a coat; [Chiefly British] a sleeveless undershirt
vestee dickey, especially one made to resemble a vest and worn under a cost; vest
vestment an outer garment, especially a robe of ceremony or office; [Plural] clothing,
garb; an article of ceremonial attire worn by ecclesiastical officiants and assistants
indicative of their rank and appropriate to the rite being celebrated
vesture a covering garment, as a robe or vestment; clothing, apparel
visor the front piece of a helmet, especially a movable upper piece; a projecting front of
a cap for shading the eyes
v-neck a garment, as a sweater, with a V-shaped neck
wader [Plural] high waterproof boots or a one-piece waterproof garment usually

consisting of pants with attached boots that are used for wading, as when fishing
wafflestomper a hiking boot with a lug sole.
waist a garment or part of a garment covering the body from the neck to the waistline or
just below; bodice; blouse
waistcoat an ornamental garment worn under a doublet; vest
walker a walking shoe
warbonnet an American Indian ceremonial headdress with a feathered extension down
the back
Warm-up a suit for exercise or casual wear comprising a jacket or sweatshirt and pants.
Often used in plural; Also called, warm-up suit or athletic suit or sweat suit]
watch cap a knitted close-fitting usually navy-blue cap worn especially by enlisted men
in the US navy in cold or stormy weather
waterproof [Chiefly British] raincoat.
wedge a shoe having a heel extending from the back of the shoe to the front of the
shank and a tread formed by an extension of the sole
wedgie a shoe having a wedge-shaped piece serving as the heel and joining the half-
sole to form a continuous flat under surface
wellington a leather boot having a loose top with the front usually coming above the
knee [Usually used in plural]
weskit vest

western shirt style of shirt with yoking on the front as well as the back of the shoulders.
Shirts are often checked patterns or have the yoking highlighted with piping or other
ornamentation
wet suit a close-fitting suit made of material, as sponge rubber, that traps a thin layer of
water against the body to retain body heat and that is worn, as by a skin diver, especially
in cold water. Surfers generally wear wet suits when surfing. The suit protects the body
from the board as well as maintains body temperature.
Wide collar collar with wide lapels
Wide waist dress with a wide panel horizontally at the waist.
wig a manufactured covering of natural or synthetic hair for the head
wife-beater a cotton-ribbed sleeveless undershirts (this is a slang expression
sometimes used in the USA)
wiglet a small wig used especially to enhance a hairstyle
wimple a cloth covering worn over the head and around the neck and chin especially by
women in the late medieval period and by some nuns.
windbreaker an outer jacket made of wind-resistant material
windcheater pullover generally made of fleeced back cotton (Australian)
windsor tie the most professional tie knot also known as Full or Double windsor
wing tip a shoe having a wing tip, namely a toe cap having a point that extends back
toward the throat of the shoe and curving sides that extend toward the shank
wrap an outer garment, as a coat or shawl
wrap-(around) a garment, as a dress, made with a full-length opening and adjusted to
the figure by wrapping around
wrapper an article of clothing worn wrapped around the body
wreath something intertwined into a circular shape, especially a garland or a chaplet
wristband a band encircling the wrist. Generally use by athletes for wiping sweat from
the forehead.
wristlet a band encircling the wrist, especially one that is close-fitting, knitted, and
attached to the top of a glove or end of a sleeve
wylie coat a warm undergarment; petticoat
yarmulkes a skullcap worn especially by Orthodox and Conservative Jewish males in

the synagogue and the home
yashmak a veil worn by Muslim women around the upper and lower parts of the face so
that only the eyes are visible
yoked garment where a piece of fabric is included to join two panels together. Either the
skirt/trousers to the waist or the body of the shirt to the shoulders.
zoot suit a severely cut suit consisting of a thigh-length jacket with wide padded
shoulders and peg pants with narrow cuffs
zori a flat thonged sandal usually made of straw, cloth, leather, or rubber
Zucchetto a small round skullcap worn by Roman Catholic ecclesiastics in colours that
varies according to the rank of the wearer

If you notice any words not included in this glossary please email us at
study@internationalstyleacademy.com.au so that we can include them in this glossary.

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Clothing terms from around the world

Afghan a blanket or shawl of coloured wool knitted or crocheted in strips or squares.

babushka a usually triangularly folded kerchief for the head

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

fall a very wide turned-down collar worn in the 17th century

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

habergeon a medieval jacket of mail shorter than a hauberk; hauberk

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

helmet a covering or enclosing headpiece of ancient or medieval armour; any of various

ice skate a shoe with a metal runner attached for ice-skating

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

knitwear knitted clothing

mackintosh [Chiefly British] raincoat. A lightweight waterproof fabric originally of

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

neckerchief a kerchief for the neck

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

obi a broad sash worn especially with a Japanese kimono

pack a bundle arranged for convenience in carrying especially on the back

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

palatine a fur cape or stole covering the neck and shoulders

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

peignoir a woman's loose negligee or dressing gown

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

T-shirt a collarless short-sleeved or sleeveless usually cotton undershirt; also, an outer

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

vandyke a wide collar with a deeply indented edge

wader [Plural] high waterproof boots or a one-piece waterproof garment usually

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

yarmulkes a skullcap worn especially by Orthodox and Conservative Jewish males in

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

Adapted from Apparelsearch.com by Clare Maxfield for Academy of Professional Image

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