Follow these basics of clothing fit to set yourself up for fashion success!
Clothing trends will come and go. The styles that were cool when your parents were young might even seem silly today. But a few things about clothes never go out of style, and that includes having them fit you correctly. Let’s review a few basics of clothing fit to keep in mind next time you go shopping.
Well-fitting clothing lasts longer
When clothing fits correctly, it will last longer! If pants are too long, they might drag on the ground, causing tears in the fabric. If a shirt is too small, the zipper or buttons might break. When clothing is too tight, it might actually rip when you move around.
Finding the right size might take a few tries
So now that you know proper fit helps your clothing last longer, how do you find the right size?
Shopping Online
Many of us order clothing online. While it is easy, ordering online can be tricky when it comes to sizing. Some stores have reviews that allow you to get feedback from others about how the clothing fits. They might say something like:
- True to size (this means order your usual size)
- Runs small (might need to order a size larger than your usual size)
- Runs large (might need to order a size smaller than your usual size)
You may be tempted to keep something when it doesn’t fit, but many online stores will allow you to return items to their store, or send them back in the package they came in. That’s why it’s important to open the package carefully when you receive any clothing in the mail!
Shopping at Different Stores
Sizing is not always the same across brands or companies, especially when it comes to sizes such as small, medium, large, etc. If you aren’t sure, the best idea is to try on different sizes and see how they fit!
Clothing might also have extra descriptions to help you decide how they will best fit. Some common examples are:
- Regular (their “standard” size)
- Tall (shirts and pant legs will be longer than standard)
- Petite (shirts and pant legs will be shorter than standard)
- Slim Fit (shirts and pants may be more narrow and tight)
There are many other descriptors that might be specific to a certain store where you like to shop. Once you try on a few things, you can get an idea of which specific fit looks and feels best on you.
Clothing size isn’t just about a number
When you buy clothing, it is important to keep in mind that it is not about fitting into a certain size, it’s about getting what fits your body correctly.
Also, it is sometimes tempting to think, “maybe I’ll fit into this in the future” – but don’t buy clothing to meet a certain goal. You want to find pieces that fit you and can be worn right away! When you buy things that aren’t the right size, they’ll often end up sitting in the back of your closet taking up space.
You want to feel comfortable in your clothing. If it’s too tight you might have trouble breathing or moving around. Too loose and you’re constantly pulling and tugging on your clothing.
Want to keep track of your clothing sizes?
Check out our Clothing Size Quick Reference Sheet!
It comes with a handy printable wallet cart to increase independence with shopping!
Poor clothing fit sends a message
For better or worse, people will make judgements based on your clothing. If your clothes are very baggy and dragging on the ground, you may come across as dirty or sloppy. Tight fitting clothing often looks uncomfortable or stretched out.
Think about this when you are going somewhere where you want to make a good impression. That might include a job interview, or a first date, or a formal event. If you focus on what fits you best, and keep track of those sizes, shopping will become a much easier task!
