Whether shopping in-store or online, finding the perfect fit is crucial to looking and feeling your best. From understanding measurements to trying on and assessing fit, these expert tips from an experienced clothing fit designer will help you navigate the process.
Consider your body shape, measurements, and style when selecting a black and white dress. With these tips, you’ll be able to find the perfect fit and create a wardrobe that complements your unique figure.
Understand Your Body Shape
Understanding your body shape is an essential part of finding clothes that flatter. Each body is unique, but most women align with one of five basic body shapes: rectangle, hourglass, apple, pear, and inverted triangle.
To determine your body shape, measure your shoulders, bust, and waist with a tape measure. Stand up straight, but not rigidly, and ensure the measuring tape fully circles your body. Use a mirror if you’re not comfortable taking your measurements by yourself.
The first of the five body types is the rectangle, where your hip and shoulder measurements are similar, and your waist is slightly smaller than your bust. A rectangular woman might benefit from high-waist pants and dresses with nipped-in waists.
Another popular shape is the apple, where your hips and bust are relatively equal. If you are an apple, try to avoid wide-legged pants and skirts. Instead, look for styles that showcase your narrow shoulders and wide hips, like fit-and-flare dresses and ruched tops.
Finally, the pear body shape is defined by a smaller bust than the hips and shoulders. You can play up your narrow shoulders and wide hips with various styles if you are a pear. A pear body shape may also benefit from a belt to cinch in the waist.
Take Accurate Measurements
A solid understanding of your body is one of the best things you can do for your style. This will help you make informed decisions about what clothing works best for you, making accessorizing your outfits much easier.
For example, if you have an asymmetrical body shape (such as an hourglass figure), selecting a dress tailored to fit your bust, hips, and waist can help create a balanced look. It’s also important to consider the fabric you select. For example, a lightweight linen blend might be more flattering on your skin than a thicker, more structured wool dress.
The same goes for the details of your dress. Choosing elegant black and white dresses that skim your curves rather than hugging your body will open up your options for styling the dress with accessories, such as a tailored blazer and a pair of polished shoes.
Similarly, if you’re looking for a black and white dress for a cocktail event, a long-sleeved silhouette can be a flattering choice for your shoulders. The right fit will ensure that the dress isn’t so tight that it clings to your arms while being loose enough for you to move comfortably. It’s also essential to test different brands’ sizing systems, as they may vary slightly.
Try on Multiple Sizes and Styles
While it may seem like a waste of time to spend a day shopping for a dress that you may not end up wearing, doing so can help you get the most out of your wardrobe. For example, you can use the same dress for several occasions, transforming it by changing the shoes or accessories you wear with it.
In addition, it can be difficult to tell how well a dress fits without trying it on. Some brands fit differently, and finding a dress that fits well can be even more challenging if you have uneven shoulders or other body issues. This is why finding a dress you love and feel comfortable in is so important.
Ultimately, the perfect black and white dress is proportional to your body, hiding any flaws while flattering the parts of your figure you most want to highlight. This means the dress should not be too tight or loose but rather sit comfortably against your body without clinging or pulling while skimming the arms and torso with a trim, not skin-tight fit.
A black and white dress also pairs perfectly with neutral footwear and accessories, making building appropriate outfits for every occasion easy. You can pair a white dress with dark gray heels for a classic, sophisticated look or try out different colors of pumps to see what looks best with your chosen style.
Assess the Fit
If you’ve ever tried on a dress only to realize it didn’t fit, you know how frustrating it can be. But there are some ways to avoid that frustration in the future, no matter what the occasion calls for.
First, always read the store’s sizing charts carefully. They should be clear, visible, and up-to-date. And if you can’t find a chart, look for notes about how the brand’s sizes compare to other brands.
Also, try the clothing on in three-sided mirrors. That way, you’ll be able to see how the garment looks on all sides and if it moves freely with your body. For example, a tee that feels tight in the arms or waist will not look good as you raise it or move around while wearing it.
Finally, ask for an outsider’s opinion if you need it. Whether it’s a trusted friend or a store employee, a fresh eye can help you spot issues you might have overlooked. Remember that these opinions are not as valuable if the person providing them isn’t trained in taking measurements or helping people find clothes that work for their bodies.
