Yoke Calculator — Yoke Dimensions

A yoke is a fitted section at the top of a garment from which the rest of the garment hangs. Skirt yokes fit the hip area; bodice yokes sit across the chest or back. Yokes allow shaping at the top while adding fullness below.

A skirt yoke typically extends from the waist to the widest point of the hip (15-20cm). It should end at or just above the fullest part of the hip. A deeper yoke gives a more fitted hip before the flare begins.

Skirt yokes are usually cut on the straight grain for stability. Bodice yokes can be cut on the straight grain or bias depending on the design. Bias-cut yokes have more give but less structure.

Waistband-style yokes benefit from lightweight interfacing for stability. Bodice yokes usually do not need interfacing unless the fabric is very lightweight. Interface the facing/lining side, not the outer fabric.