The sheath is a narrow, close-fitting silhouette of straight cut that closely follows the lines of the body from the shoulders to the hem, usually to the knee. The classic sheath dress became a symbol of business elegance and restraint, especially thanks to Christian Dior and the iconic looks of the mid-20th century. The sheath is held by darts that shape the fabric without excess volume. It creates a restrained, confident and impeccably tidy silhouette, ideal for the office, business meetings and understated occasions. Its challenge is its demand for a good fit and a shape-holding fabric; it is a silhouette in which the purity of line is prized.
