Understanding and Getting a Great Fit
After posting numerous articles about why fit is so important, I realized suddenly that I haven’t talked alot about what it takes to get a great fit. First and foremost you must fit the largest part of your body. Your clothes should smooth gently over your curves without pulling. If you notice stress points in the following areas you should try a different size.
- Buttons pulling at bustline
- Pockets gaping open at hips
- Fly or zippers not closing easily
- Whiskering at crotch
- Buttons stretched or pulling at any point of closure
- Seams anywhere that are pulled
- Shoulder seams are not at the top of your shoulder bone
- Excess fabric in the back of your jacket
If you are having to suck your stomach, slouch, or in any way alter your normal posture to zipper, button or snap yourself into your clothes that is a big red flag that this may be the wrong size. Don’t worry as much about the number of the size you are trying on as the fit. If the number is bothering you, but the fit looks great, cut out the number after you have taken the garment home.
Now, you must alter to fit. Buying the right size for one part of your body may mean that it doesn’t fit another part-it is probably too big elsewhere. This is O.K. You are now going to make your new garment a custom fit for your body by getting it altered.
The alterations that I see most often is the result of a large chest or large hips. A top or jacket that fits, often has shoulders that are too big. Your alterations expert will be able to adjust the shoulders and excess fabric in the back to make it fit your body.
Slacks that fit the hips are often too big in the waist. If you are having this problem, there are two things that you can try to help eliminate this. One option is to purchase pants that sit a little lower on your waistline. Another option is to try a side zip pant.
Sometimes just changing the style of the pant will help eliminate the gap found between the hips and the waist. If all else fails again, your alterations expert can remove the excess fabric. If you have large hips, steer clear of side pockets and slash pockets. Not only do they add bulk to your widest part, then never stay closed because it is a significant stress point. Opt instead for front facing pockets or better yet none at all.
Now that you understand how your garment should fit, go forth and
“Look Good, Feel Great and Have Fun Doing It!”
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Posted by: Karen Hughes, Founder of Image Assets, an Image Consulting Firm serving the Alpharetta and Metro Atlanta areas. As a seasoned certified image consultant, Karen follows a simple philosophy: educate, empower, and enrich the lives of her clients. Her philosophy is enmeshed throughout her practice and can be observed in her workshops, clinics, and one-on-one consultations. Her energetic and interactive style makes her a sought-after training resource for organizations and individuals alike. Even the most difficult topics seem effortless for Karen as she tackles such challenges as professional etiquette, business dress personal image and body shape.
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June 28th, 2009 at 10:36 am
I have issues with finding pants that fit the waist but are to small in the thigh area making it uncomfortable to sit.
June 28th, 2009 at 10:59 am
Where are you shopping for pants? What brands have you tried on that are snug? You should try to find a pant that sits lower in the waist (not really low) perhaps 1/2 to 1 ” below your belly. Start there. Look for a “curvy” fit. Most vendors are now making slacks that are labeled, boot cut, full leg, etc. You need room through the seat area and a fuller leg will give you more room through the thigh.