How often have you been attracted to a style or a pattern and made up a garment with disastrous results? Maybe it fit, but you did not like how it looked on … or when you tried it on, it felt strange. Or, maybe it took so much altering to get it to fit that you were sick of the garment before you even finished it. Any of these scenarios might make you think, “What did I do wrong?” The answer is: Nothing! You simply selected an incorrect style for your body shape.
As a seamstress, you have the knowledge, the ability, and the resources to make any garment you wish and have it fit. Are you happy with the results? Not always.
A perfect fitting garment starts with the selection of the correct pattern-a pattern that has the same lines as the body and repeats its shape. So why not start with a pattern that is your body shape? You’ll be able to eliminate all the pattern alterations and time-consuming fitting sessions. You’ll know that your garment will fit and that you will enjoy wearing it.
The Body Shape Concept says there are four body shapes-triangle, square, circle, and oval-each one unique and each one beautiful.
There are also four styles of garment-triangle, square, circle, and oval. When the shape of your clothing matches the shape of your body, the effect is harmony-a pleasing arrangement of parts. When you achieve harmony with your wardrobe, the effect is terrific-not just to others but to yourself.
When you recognize your body shape and repeat it in your silhouette; any figure problem you have will take care of itself. That sense of being “together” is far more powerful than whether your hips are larger than your bust. There is so much power in creating harmony that people just don’t see or remember imperfections.
Here is an example of what happens when you use a pattern that is not your body shape.
Yes, you can alter, alter, alter to get any style to fit; however you will not achieve the results you are hoping for. By the time the garment fits, the original design lines will have been distorted and you will wonder what happened.
Each of the four body shapes has very distinct characteristics: The triangle body shape is angular and asymmetrical with unusual proportions.
- You have a V-shaped rib cage.
- You have a small waistline or small in proportion to your hips.
- Your legs are full through the knees.
- If you have extra weight, it will be in your derriere and thighs.
The square body shape has straight lines giving it a squared-off, no-non- sense sporty look.
- You have a straight rib cage with little or no waistline indentation.
- You have a flat derriere.
- You have straight slim legs.
- If you have extra weight, it will be in your torso.
The circle body shape is rounded and feminine with graceful curves.
- You have or once had a definite waistline.
- You have full upper hips, derriere, and thighs.
- You have large calves and thin ankles.
- If you have extra weight, it will be in your upper arms, rib cage, and upper hips.
The oval body shape is balanced, symmetrical and uncomplicated, giving it a look of subtle sophistication.
- Your shape flows smoothly from the rib cage to waist to hips in a gentle line.
- You have a flat derriere.
- Your legs are gently shaped.
- If you have extra weight, it will be in your front torso.
Although you can change your size, you can’t change your shape… and there is no reason to. Your unique contours give you character.
When the shape of your clothes matches your contours, you’ve got style. There is a special quality that emanates from people who accept themselves. Knowing how to dress increases self-confidence. If you feel alive in your clothes, you’ll exude your own special attractiveness. Beauty is made from dressing with style. Your body shape, no matter what it is, can always be dressed beautifully.
Look for the true, the good, and the beautiful…and there you are!
~Darlene Miller is the author of “Your Shape, Your Clothes, and You—Secrets of a Successful Wardrobe” (out of print)
