Hasn’t this happened to most of us? We find that gorgeous, dreamy outfit online, and we order it, but when it finally arrives, the fit and clothing size is all wrong. And sigh, we are forced to book a return. Who said shopping is easy? Well, these are the true confessions of a shopaholic, literally.
While online shopping often leads to a lot of mismatches, even shopping from the store isn't as easy as it sounds. It goes a little deeper in terms of understanding, apart from leading to a deep hole in your pockets (pun intended).
The saying “first impression is the last impression” makes a lot of sense - making a remarkable and solid impression with your outfit isn’t only about wearing the latest trends or knowing all those fashion rules; it’s also about wearing the right fit.
How to know your size of clothes
Offline and in-store shopping
Does a right fit exist? Short answer: Yes, it does!
Blazers, jackets, and shirts
Make sure that there is no gap between the buttons. Shoulder seams should sit exactly on your shoulders. The outfit should be comfortable enough to allow movement. You should be able to stretch your arms in all directions.
In addition to the above, ensure that there’s room to fit in a shirt underneath the blazer and jacket. And, ensure that the sleeves don’t end at your wrists.
Pants and skirts
The band should allow for two fingers to fit comfortably. Make sure to wear a belt to avoid gaping in the back.
Online shopping
Accurate measurements
Use a measuring tape to get an accurate measurement of your body. This will also help you to know the right size for clothes. It is recommended to use a flexible fabric tape measure when measuring yourself; using a hard ruler might not give you an accurate reading. Remember to not include the top of your head in these measurements as clothing is measured on a flat surface.
One of the easiest ways to get an accurate measurement is to request someone to help you. If you don't have a helper, you'll need a mirror to take your measurements.
Size chart
In order to measure your clothing size, it is highly recommended to follow the clothing size chart mentioned on the shopping websites you choose to shop from. Keep your measurement metrics handy while referring to the size chart. This will help you to understand the size category you will fit into.
We recommend that you use the Size & Fit website which will help you know the right size for the clothes you pick. This website is the perfect fashion style guide that you’ve been looking for. Size & Fit’s size charts are easy to use and boast size guides for over 600+ brands.
If you're buying clothes online from a retailer in another country, you need to use an international size chart. The same applies to shoes as well.
Shopping for watches
When it comes to buying watches, especially men’s watches, one crucial thing to remember is that not one size fits all. No set guide will help you pick a size or colour, but if you are looking for watch size tips that’ll give you the upper hand every time you wear a watch, then check out our men’s watch size guide on “How To Buy The Right Size In Men’s Watches”.
Fashion cues that will help you look slim
We’re always in the process of losing a few extra kilos every now and then, and since every body type is different, we’ve got some hacks that will help you achieve the look you want.
You can check out this super, simple and easy guide that will give you fashion tips to make you look slimmer instantly. This easy reference guide will help you to know how to look the way you want in a lehenga, saree, kurti, crop top or jeans.
How to dress according to your body type
This quick fashion guide will help you to understand how to dress according to your body type.
If you have an apple body shape, most of the weight and concentration is above the hips. The midriff appears heavier than the remaining body with a minimal waistline. So, the key is to take the attention away from that part of the body and highlight its strengths. Flaunt your legs or wear a dress with V or deep V necklines. Printed dresses or patterned jackets will also suit your body type.
If you have an hour glass body shape, wear a dress that sits well at the right curves and follows the outline of these curves. Necklines like V, plunge V, and sweetheart necklines will suit. To flaunt your waistline, go for a belt at your natural waistline or below the belly button. Body-hugging dresses will also suit such body types.
If you have a pear body shape, wide-legged pants, A-line skirts, or dresses with patterned or ruffled tops that add definition to the upper body look great. Crop tops, V or deep-V, padded jackets and tops, scoop, or boat necks will also help you win the game.
How to dress according to your age
Age is just a number. Decide how you want people to perceive you, but don’t forget to give top priority to your comfort and personal style. Remember that your preferences will change depending on your age. So, dress however you like.
Use the tips mentioned above to choose the right size of your clothes and make your shopping a memorable experience, because not everyone is as lucky as Vivian from Pretty Woman, isn’t it?
FAQs
1. How to take correct measurements to find that perfect fit?
Begin with bust measurement: For measuring the bust, place the end of the measuring tape in the front of your chest, at the widest point. Then, go under your arms, wrap the measuring tape around your back and make sure that it doesn't twist up. Try to pull your arms down over the tape and take the measurement.
Move to sleeve measurement: For measuring the sleeve, place the end of the tape measure at the tip of your shoulder and measure down to your wrist. Measure it to the place where you want the sleeve to fall.
Head-to-shoulder measurement: Place one end of the measuring tape on the tip of one shoulder and draw it across your back. Find the measurement at the tip of the other shoulder, making sure the tape measure is flat across your back first.
Head to your waist: Your natural waist is the smallest part of your waist, usually just above your belly button and under your rib cage. Make sure the tape measure is flat around your body, and then take the measurement in front.
Move to your hips now: Wrap the tape around your body, ensuring you go over the widest part of your buttock. Keep the tape horizontal and flat against your body, and then measure it in front where the measuring tape meets itself.
Move to inseam measurement: This measurement runs from your crotch down to where you want your pants to fall on your ankle.