Selecting a pattern that flatters your body shape is a valuable skill for anyone interested in sewing or looking for flattering clothing. Knowing your body shape and understanding which cuts highlight your natural assets can help you create a harmonious, comfortable look. If you’re about to start a new sewing project or deciding between options at a store, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you choose the perfect pattern based on your body shape.
1. Hourglass Body Shape
Characteristics
The hourglass body shape features a defined, narrow waist compared to the bust and hips, which are relatively wide and balanced.
Recommended Patterns
Wrap Dresses: Wrap dresses or dresses that emphasize the waist are ideal for this body shape, as they hug the waist and highlight it.
Patterns with Belts: Belted designs enhance curves and create a feminine, well-defined look.
High-Waisted Pants: High-waisted pants are particularly flattering for this body type and accentuate the waist.
Patterns to Avoid
Excessively Loose Clothing: Baggy or overly loose clothes may conceal your curves and create an undefined look.
2. Pear Body Shape
Characteristics
In the pear body shape, the hips and lower body are broader than the bust and shoulders, with a narrower waist.
Recommended Patterns
A-Line Dresses and Skirts: A-line skirts and dresses, which widen from the waist down, help balance the hips and emphasize the waist.
Tops with Shoulder Volume: Tops with volume at the shoulders, like layered or puffed sleeves or wide necklines, help balance proportions.
Straight-Leg Pants: Straight-leg pants highlight the legs and add balance to the upper body.
Patterns to Avoid
Shiny Fabrics at the Hips: Shiny fabrics in the hip area can draw attention and make that area more dominant.
3. Apple Body Shape
Characteristics
With the apple body shape, most weight is concentrated around the belly, while the arms and legs are relatively slim.
Recommended Patterns
Wrap and Straight Cuts: Straight or wrap dresses help de-emphasize the stomach area, creating a long, refined look.
Tops with Gentle, Loose Fit: Tops that fall lightly over the body without being tight offer a relaxed and pleasing look.
High-Waisted Pants: High-waisted pants can support the stomach area and create a more defined waistline.
Patterns to Avoid
Tight Clothing Around the Stomach: Tight clothes around the stomach may highlight areas that you’re trying to downplay.
4. Rectangular Body Shape
Characteristics
In a rectangular body shape, the bust, waist, and hips are similar in width, with a less defined waist.
Recommended Patterns
Waist-Enhancing Designs: Patterns that define the waist, like dresses with belts, give a sculpted look and create a sense of curves.
Loose Tops and Tunics: Loosely fitted tops and tunics with a belt at the waist can create a feminine and sculpted silhouette.
Halter Dresses: Halter-style dresses emphasize the shoulders and add interest to the body line.
Patterns to Avoid
Excessively Baggy Clothing: Very loose designs can create a flat, shapeless appearance.
5. Inverted Triangle Body Shape
Characteristics
This body shape features shoulders that are broader than the waist and hips, creating a strong, balanced look.
Recommended Patterns
Off-Shoulder Dresses: Off-shoulder or strapless dresses suit this body type well, balancing proportions.
A-Line Skirts: Skirts that widen from the waist downward add balance to the lower body and create a harmonious look.
Round Neck Tops: Round or V-neck tops enhance the neckline and soften the upper body.
Patterns to Avoid
Tops with Puffy Shoulders: Tops with layers or shoulder pads can make the shoulders appear even broader, creating a heavy look.
General Tips for Choosing a Pattern
Emphasize What You Love: Choosing a pattern that highlights parts of your body you love can give you a lot of confidence.
Consider Fabrics and Weights: The choice of fabric has a significant impact on the final look. Soft fabrics work well for flowing, relaxed looks, while stiffer fabrics create a structured look.
Experiment and Vary: If you’re unsure, try several patterns on a body shape similar to yours to understand what truly flatters you.
Conclusion: Selecting the right pattern for your body shape is an essential part of sewing or shopping for clothing. Remember, ultimately, the most important thing is how you feel in your clothes.