For men, measurements include height, neck, chest, waist, hips, and inseam. [2] X Research source For women, measurements include height, shoulders, waist, hips, and bust size. [3] X Research source
Some designers use vanity sizing, which puts a smaller size number on clothing that is normally larger in an attempt to appeal to your emotions. The number-letter system (small, medium, large, extra large) has no standard, so the dimensions on these clothes vary.
Those who differ from standard size, such as those who are tall or short, will have a harder time finding clothing. Specialty fits or tailored work are the best options.
Don’t worry about using a larger size. You can cut off the tags if you need to, but clothes that fit well will do more to make you forget your flaws than clothes that poorly mask them. Don’t forget to check out your backside. Clothes that don’t fit well can squeeze your back and leave a very noticeable, unappealing roll of flesh. Anyone who had a parent who made them walk around when trying out shoes knows how important testing is. Turn while wearing the clothes. Lift your arms and legs. Sit on a chair. Good clothes won’t feel restrictive.
Use your judgment in evaluating these opinions. Store employees for example may be more concerned with flattering you and making sales.
Alternatively, you can learn to adjust clothing yourself.
For button-down shirts, the fabric of both sides should meet between the buttons without leaving gaps.
Don’t be afraid of getting measured in a store. Be patient with the clerk as you get fitted.
Buttoning is optional, but it is better to choose a jacket that still feels right after buttoning up in case you want a more formal look.
Avoid pants that create a “muffin top,” skin bulging out the top around the waist. This is evidence the pants don’t fit. Pockets typically don’t keep an ideal shape when you sit. If this is a problem, have a tailor remove them. Take time finding jeans that fit your particular body shape and keep in mind that the heat from a mechanical dryer damages the elasticity, so choose a bigger size or washing method. Skirts follow the same guidelines, except the hem typically ends right above the knees or right below the ankles. Choose skirts according to your height and body structure in order to accentuate your hips and legs.
Be aware of the empire waist. This is the fabric line that rests below the bust. If it runs too high on you, the dress won’t fit well and tailors won’t be able to help.
If you have large hips, you can choose something that covers those and runs thin at your waist, for example. [11] X Research source
Don’t try squeezing into shoes and don’t choose ones that you think you’ll break in or fit into later.
A rule of thumb for stiff shirts is that good ones give you enough space to allow you to fit exactly two fingers under the collar. Tucked shirts should not become undone or feel tight when you bend over or move your arms. Choose t-shirts that end at the middle of your waist and only ride up an inch above your pants during movement.
A tight suit jacket leaves an x-shape on the belly where the fabric is too tight. The armholes should be high enough that they don’t cut into your skin or restrict your movement. For a button jacket, the second to last button should fall right above your belly button and leave enough material that the jacket covers your behind.
Like jackets, make sure the coat is long enough that it doesn’t flare out over your backside.
Look for jeans that are slim around your thighs but straight or tapered below the knee.
For formal shoes, choose round-toed shoes to achieve a better appearance.
