The Apparel Search guide to shopping women's shirts by style, detail and fit.
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Gather waist shirts cinch with elastic, drawstrings, or smocking at the waist — defining shape while staying comfortable. The gather adds texture and forgiveness.
Check elastic quality — it should recover, not sag. Drawstrings should be sturdy and long enough to tie.
The defined waist flatters hourglass figures and creates curves on straighter frames. Smocking stretches to fit, forgiving size fluctuations.
A gather waist shirt with a full skirt is vintage-charming. The defined waist means you can go fuller on the bottom.
This guide helps you shop women's shirts by style, detail and fit. To browse where to buy, visit our women's clothing store directory.