When it comes to looking great in your clothes, the size and fit makes all the difference.
If you are on the larger side of the scale, when you’re shopping please don’t identify with the number on the label. I work with clients of all shapes and sizes. It is not unusual that I will put my client in a size 12 trouser, a top in a size 16, and throw on a coat in a size medium. They are to be used as a guide only.
Instead, let the mirror be your size guide. Put on an item and look at how it looks on you, and how it fits your style as well as your shape and size. Is there any restriction anywhere? How does it feel? If you find that your normal size 12 feels tight, don’t hesitate to go up a size. Don’t give your confidence away to a number!
Never buy items without trying them first, in a couple of sizes. Resist the temptation to buy something on speculation that it will fit when you lose a few pounds. That’s not fair to your mind or body, which wants to be dressed now in clothes that feel nice and create ease and freedom.
The goal is to get dressed and be able to forget about your clothes. If something feels tight, you’re going to be thinking about it all day.
It’s one thing to go up and down three pounds or so and have items in your wardrobe that look best when you’re either at the higher or lower end of your size range and that’s okay. I’ve been in wardrobes where the rail was filled with clothes that didn’t fit my client’s current body size, so it's no wonder she wasn’t having any fun with her clothes!
Here are some tips on how to enjoy clothes that fit and flatter.
Choose a silhouette for your personal style preferences as well as body shape. Experiment with trying a few sizes to find the right size. Experiment with new shapes that are out each season to avoid getting stuck in a rut. Many clothing shapes people get stuck wearing for years after reading or hearing they are the correct ones for their body shape become dated and ageing over the years. Try something new, you may be pleasantly surprised!
Printed fabrics are great for moving the eye around the body without settling. A solid-coloured garment can be less forgiving. Try a textured fabric in a solid colour.
If you’re wearing something that is clingy, you may be tempted to wear Spanx or other shape wear, or walk around sucking your stomach in. That may work for special occasions or short amounts of time, but over a full day, they aren’t worth it. If you like wearing clothes that are close fitting, go up a size so you’re not feeling uncomfortable or self-conscious.
Colour can make a big difference in perceived size. It’s fairly common that when my clients are wearing something white I encourage them to go up a size. In black, the smaller size may look best. Lighter colours need to be selected with extra care when you are larger, especially in trousers which can be unforgiving. Thin or fitted fabrics often reveal skin texture without your knowledge. When trying on trousers, look at them in direct light if you can.
Scarves and shawls fit everyone. If you are small-boned or have a small frame, then large scarves could overwhelm you. Go for narrower rectangular scarves, slimmer shawls or consider altering a large scarf by cutting away some volume. Scarves are great for summer or winter. In winter they provide warmth and interest to your outfit. In the summer, cotton or linen scarves are a great thing to have in your handbag to take the chill off your neck and shoulders in air-conditioned buildings
We are experts on fabrics and silhouettes that will flatter your body. If you’d like our help, we'd love to transform your wardrobe and help you discover what’s right for your personal style.
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