The Importance of Fit
Clothing that fits your body like it was made for you is key to looking polished. When a garment is too big or too snug, it’s noticeable. And it can also be uncomfortable to wear. When your clothing fits like it should, you feel it. And it can be an amazing feeling.
Finding clothing that fits your body can be a challenge. We are not all made the same way. And today’s retail outlets are not made to custom fit all shoppers. So how do you make the most of what’s available in stores to look like it was meant for you?
First off, figure out what necklines and silhouettes flatter your specific body type. Then gravitate towards those styles when you shop. Figure out what colors flatter your skin tone best. Look for those colors specifically when you shop. You may find over time that certain brands fit you better than others. Before you know it, shopping becomes much easier because you know what to look for and the rest is just background noise.
Some fit criteria are obvious. But there is some gray area in today’s clothing because some items are meant to look oversized (some are even described this way in their item name) and others are meant to look tight or small (think skinny, mini, bodycon). When deciding if something is a good fit, consider your comfort level wearing it. Does it fit comfortably or are you in need of supporting undergarments to make it work? Is it too long or too short anywhere?
In the examples below, I will focus on tops specifically to show details of what to look for when deciding on fit. But you can apply the same principles to your dresses, pants, jumpsuits, blazers and jackets. Making these determinations also requires a full length mirror. You need to be able to see your whole outfit in good lighting to make a clear decision on how each piece fits and what adjustments may need to be made.
In this first example, this top is so cute on the hanger but when I put it on, I can see that the shoulders are too far in, and the front button is stretched. Also notice that there are pull marks on the upper that appear to be coming from the armpit. These are a few signs that this particular top is a bit too small for me. I might consider sizing up if I really like it but will send this one back.
In this second example, the top is a bit too big for me. The sleeve hem is past my shoulder in this case and the sleeve itself has a lot of volume. This might work for someone else but does not flatter me. There is also a bit of volume in the body of the shirt which you can’t necessarily tell in the picture but which I didn’t find flattering when I put it on.
Finally, this sweater fit like it was made for me. The sleeves and the hem were all a great length and overall, the sweater was well fitting. My only complaint might be the color. While it is a neutral which is usually my go to this particular shade isn’t the most flattering for my complexation. As you can see it’s important to be critical of items when you are trying on new pieces, so you make sure you pick the best items for your wardrobe.
It’s worth noting that you may find items which can be tailored to fit you better. As I am petite, I often have to shorten pants and even sleeves on occasion. I’ve definitely had dresses taken in or out, and other adjustments made to garments that just need a little help to look better on me. If you can find a good seamstress that is key to better fitting clothes, especially when your body type is outside of the standard cookie cutter retail loves so much. But just because you don’t fit that mold doesn’t mean you can’t look fantastic. Don’t settle. Keep looking for the right pieces, it will make all the difference!