Finding Your Fit After the New Year

I hate shopping for clothes because I never know my size.

At my favorite store, New York & Company, I wear one size. But once I hit Old Navy, that same exact size is practically falling off my body! It’s annoying, because I don’t know if the sizes are changing because of the manufacturer, or if the sizes are changing because of me. This especially hurts if I’m teeter-tottering on my new year’s resolution.

The end result is this, every time I go up a size, my self-esteem goes down.

I know I can’t be the only person who faces this challenge. That’s why fashion expert and seamstress Shishandra Devlin of Fashioned for Hem dropped by to share her expert knowledge and help you “find your fit”!

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Tip 1: Know your measurements

This means you may have to go to a local seamstress or clothing alteration shop to get measured.  This will ensure you are purchasing clothing that actually fits.  Also, knowing your measurements is very helpful when shopping online or purchasing formal attire.

Suggestion: Store your measurements in your phone, which can keep you from purchasing the wrong things. If you are ever in doubt, ALWAYS try on the garment (clothing) before you purchase it.

Which measurements do you need?

• Size of your chest (bust) for women
• Size of your neck for men
• Shoulder width
• Waist
• Hips
• Sleeve length
• Leg inseam

Tip 2: Understand your body shape

Now, that you know your measurements you can dress according to your body shape (aka body type or silhouette).  Yes, you have one!!

For women, it may sound like your favorite fruit—Apple, Pear, or Banana. 

You may have also heard the term “hourglass figure”. Try this Body Type Calculator to see what lovely shape you are: Body Type Calculator.

Men, you’re not excluded this applies to you as well. 

The body shape names aren’t fruit yet, but they are pretty catchy—Ectomorph, Mesomorph, and Endomorph. If you want to ensure you are achieving a proper fit, knowing your measurements will allow you to understand your body shape, ultimately ensuring that the clothes you pick will look great on you and are flattering.

Tip 3: Shopping for Tops, Blouses, and Blazers

• Collars should graze your neck and should meet the 2 finger rule (comfortably fit 2 fingers inside collar).
• Cuffs should stop about 2 cm from your wrist bone.
• Shoulder seams should stop at your shoulder bone. (This may not apply to all female tops).
• Shirts should be long enough, so that the shirt does not become un-tucked or exposing when bending or lifting the arms.
• When the shirt is buttoned, it should close without gaping. That means it shouldn’t pull across the chest or bust area.

Tip 4: Shopping for Dress Pants, Jeans, and Trousers

• When selecting your size, pants should not need a belt to stay on your hips.
• Additionally, pants should not be too tight. The 2 finger rule applies here as well (comfortably fit 2 fingers inside the waist of pants, jeans, or trousers).
• Pants should not drag on the ground. Your leg inseam measurement will assist with finding a good fit.

Whether you are shopping for new clothing to accommodate your body shape, cleaning out your closet of old attire, or just looking for ways to complement your temple—Use these tips to help you find right fit for your new fit!

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