The name 'smocking' is derived from 'smock', an old English word for the shirt-like garments which were usually worn by farm labourers and others engaged in outdoor manual work. This clothing had to allow for ease of movement, as well as protection from the weather, so it was usually made from strong material with a certain amount of fullness. To hold this fullness of material in place, a form of decorative gathering evolved which has since become known as smocking.
Today, smocking is used by many of the leading fashion designers on dresses where fullness enhances the style. It can also be used in a restrained way when fashion dictates a less full style. Blouses, skirts, coats, nightwear, hats and bags are all suitable for smocking.
