How would you define a "yoke" in garment design?

In garment design, a yoke is a fitted section that is typically found at the shoulders or waist of a garment. It serves to provide structure and shape, enhancing the fit and style of clothing. The yoke can be designed in various ways, including curved or straight, and it is often used in blouses, shirts, and dresses to create a tailored look. This feature helps to distribute the garment's fabric more evenly across the body, making it a crucial element for achieving a polished silhouette. The yoke can also allow for added design details, such as pleats or gathers, which can contribute to the overall aesthetic.

The other options, while related to garment design, do not correctly define what a yoke is. A decorative piece added to the hem relates more to embellishments, fabric types for linings address the material used rather than structural design elements, and methods of dyeing fabric pertain to coloration techniques rather than construction specifics like the yoke.