Knitting question - increase every stitch???

[roaringwater]

I'm hoping someone more knowledgeable about knitting might be able to clarify something for me.

I've just started a new pattern, which begins by instructing me to cast on 25 stitches.

Then the next (literally, the very next) row is to increase in every stitch until you have 50 stitches.

Why? If you need 50 stitches right at the start of the pattern, why not just cast on 50 to start with?

Being a compliant sort, I have done exactly what they say but I'd love to understand why it's done this way.

Any ideas?

It's probably to prevent the edge (neckline or similar?) from being too floppy and wide, what's the pattern?

It's a little knitted dolly that sits over a Terry's chocolate orange! Your theory would make sense there. Thank you.

If you started with 50 you would find the edge too loose. The 25 will keep a tight edge

@roaringwater that sounds intriguing! Can you post a picture or link to the pattern if poss please?

@ibbydibby
So this is what I'm making for my DS, who is a huge Peaky Blinders fan.
However, if you look at the Knitclick shop on Ravelry, you will find an endless number of other designs based around the same concept.
(Having got past the first couple of rows, it's turning out really well!)

@roaringwater - thanks! Looks fab!

Glad that it's going well - would be great to see the finished work!