Side Striple

Definition and Overview

Side striple is a band-like decoration placed along the outer side of pants, that is, along the left and right side seams. It is often used on tuxedo and formal pants, and it also serves to create a formal impression by coordinating with glossy materials used on jacket lapels.

Side striple is used both as the design name for the finished product and as the term for the narrow tape used for sewing. In specifications, it is important to clearly state whether side striple is present, the visible width, material, color, and sewing position, and to keep the appearance on both sides consistent.

Materials and Structure

For side striple, tapes with a glossy satin weave surface, ribbed grosgrain-style woven tapes, and narrow braided tapes are used. Depending on the structure of the weave, knit, or braid, the type of thread, and the finish, the gloss, thickness, tendency for fraying at the edges, and stretch characteristics differ.

Materials such as silk-like fibers, rayon, and polyester are selected, but the name side striple itself does not limit the material. Selection is based not only on color contrast with the pant fabric, but also on the direction of the gloss and the surface texture.

• Woven tape: tends to keep its shape well and makes it easier to control how the edges appear.
• Knit tape: soft and easy to blend in, but some types stretch easily.
• Braided tape: easy to give a three-dimensional look and thickness, with the appearance changing depending on the design.

How Width Is Shown and Main Applications

The width of side striple is generally expressed in millimeters as the width of the tape itself. However, in constructions where it is inserted into the side seam or where the edges are overlapped and sewn, the visible width after completion becomes narrower than the tape width. In ordering and specification instructions, the tape width and the finished visible width should be distinguished.

The main applications are formal pants such as tuxedos and tailcoats. It may also be used in stage costumes, uniforms, and sporty pants as a decoration that emphasizes the side line. Depending on the application, the level of gloss and wash resistance are considered.

Selection and Handling Notes

If the shrinkage difference or stretch difference between the pant fabric and the side striple is large, waviness in the side line, puckering, or seam distortion may occur after sewing or washing. Before mass production, it is important to conduct sewing tests and washing tests using the actual pant fabric and tape combination.

When cutting, do not pull the tape more than necessary, and make sure the left and right pieces are the same length and direction. For products whose cut edges fray easily, consider finishing methods that suit the specification, such as inserting into the seam allowance, folding in the ends, or using anti-fray treatment.

During washing and pressing, check for changes in gloss, color transfer, and shrinkage caused by heat, friction, and moisture. In particular, tapes with smooth surfaces may show press marks under strong pressure, so attention is also needed to finishing conditions such as the use of a pressing cloth.

Differences from Similar Terms

Side striple is a term that indicates the position and application of being placed at the side of pants. Satin ribbon and grosgrain ribbon refer mainly to types of tapes or ribbons defined by surface texture and weave. Therefore, satin-style or grosgrain-style tape may be used as side striple.

Piping is a specification in which cord is used as the core and inserted into a seam to create a narrow three-dimensional edging. In contrast, side striple is generally a flat band shown along the side line as decoration, and does not necessarily use a cord core.

Frequently Asked Questions

How should the width of side striple be specified?

Indicate not only the tape width but also the finished visible width seen from the front after sewing. Because the visible width changes depending on how much is inserted into the side seam, the overlap width at the ends, and the seam position, confirming with a cross-section drawing or sewing sample can prevent misunderstandings.

Can satin ribbon be used for side striple?

Yes, it can be used, but satin ribbon has a strong gloss, and its appearance may change depending on friction and pressing conditions. Check the shrinkage difference with the pant fabric, the condition after washing, and waviness during sewing in advance, and choose a quality suitable for the application.

Are side striple and piping the same?

No, they are not the same. Side striple mainly refers to band-like decoration shown on the side of pants, and it is generally made with a flat tape. Piping is a narrow edging wrapped around a cord core, a tailoring method that creates a three-dimensional line in the seam.