Princess seams are a tailoring solution for the hourglass figure; the fitted segments of the bodice draw in and let out fabric along the torso’s vertical lines for a better fit.  I have done a handknit version of the technique here.  … Rather than contrast of color and material, I’ve used textural and directional stitchwork to set off the segments.  The tweedy yarn lends a stucco-like surface. 



This garment has an hourglass shape with about 9" differential from waist to chest.  The jacket hem is worked from side to side, then bodice stitches are picked up and worked from the waist up.  -- description from Loop-d-Loop, pgs. 72 & 92 (pattern on pg. 92)

Other Materials: This pattern also requires a 15-16.5" separating zipper and sewing thread and needle