FLOUNCE

A flounce is a strip of fabric cut in a circle or spiral and sewn on by one edge, so that the free edge itself forms soft, wavy folds without gathers. Unlike a frill or ruffle, which are gathered, a flounce gains volume precisely through the circular cut, so it falls in smooth, natural waves. Flounces add movement, femininity and romantic lightness to a piece; they are placed at the bottom of skirts and dresses, on sleeves, necklines, cut lines. A single large flounce or a cascade of them creates a striking, 'flowing' silhouette. A flounce looks especially beautiful in flowing fabrics. This detail is closely tied to romantic, Spanish (flamenco) and feminine styles. A flounce is a decorative ruffle detail of circular cut, in which the free edge itself forms soft wavy folds, adding smooth movement, volume and romantic, 'flowing' femininity to a piece without the need for gathers.