A reinforced seam or decorative trim created by inserting a strip of fabric between two pieces of material before stitching. Welts can be functional (like on pockets) or purely decorative, and may include cord or padding for dimension.
From Middle English 'welte' meaning a border or edge, possibly related to 'weld' meaning to join. The specific sewing meaning developed in the 16th century as tailoring techniques became more sophisticated.
Welt pockets are the hallmark of quality menswear - they require incredible precision to execute properly, which is why machine-made welt pockets were a sign of manufacturing advancement in the early 1900s. A perfectly executed welt pocket should be nearly invisible when closed, lying completely flat against the garment!
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