topstitch

[ top-stich ]

verb (used with object)

1. to sew a line of stitches on the face side of (a garment or the like) alongside a seam.

noun

1. a line of such stitches.

Word History and Origins

Origin of topstitch¹

First recorded in 1945–50; top ¹ + stitch

Example Sentences

A Fendi boot had a colored snakeskin toe box and topstitch details on the instep.

From Los Angeles Times

Then I sewed the sock into a circle, from toe to topstitch, making sure it fit securely, so that it would stay in place no matter how I tossed and turned on the pillow.

From New York Times

A linen military jacket, an overdyed print shirt and canvas pants with a sailmaker's topstitch evoke what Heyerdahl might have worn if he set sail today.

From Time Magazine Archive

A linen military jacket, an overdyed print shirt and canvas pants with a sailmaker's topstitch evoke what Heyerdahl might have worn if he set sail today.

From Time Magazine Archive