The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 10 letter word DRAWSTRING
I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
D
R
A
W
S
T
R
I
N
G
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "I gather" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case i gather = drawstring.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does DRAWSTRING mean?
DRAWSTRING noun- A string or cord, encased in a fabric tube, with one or more small openings into the tube, on a bag or garment, allowing the item to be closed (as with a bag) or tightened (as with sweatpants or a bathing suit).