Ruching

Ruching is a draping technique in which fabric is gathered into soft, uneven folds and fixed with seams, creating a voluminous, 'gathered' texture. Unlike the even rows of shirring, ruching gives a freer, more sculptural and lively relief. This technique is not only decorative but practical too: the gathers skilfully hide figure flaws, add volume where needed and make the silhouette softer. Ruching is widely used in evening dresses, bodices, the sides of pieces and drapes, where it creates an effect of luxurious, 'flowing' volume. It is especially striking in flowing fabrics — jersey, chiffon, silk. Ruching is a technique of soft, sculptural draping, in which the masterful gathering of fabric into free folds combines decorativeness with silhouette correction, giving a piece volume, movement and a luxurious, sensual plasticity.