In the world of sewing and fashion, choosing the perfect fabric can make a big difference in how you feel and look in your garments. Every body type is unique, and choosing the right fabric can enhance your strengths and conceal areas you may not like as much. In this article, we’ll explore the best fabrics for five common body types: Rectangle, Hourglass, Pear, Inverted Triangle and Circle. Plus, I’ll give you tips on how to sew them and in which garments they are most flattering.
- Rectangle:
Features: Your shoulders, waist, and hips have a similar width.
Perfect fabric: Soft, flowing fabrics such as silk, chiffon and stretch fabrics are ideal for adding curves to your figure.
Enhance and Conceal: Use gathers, pleats and draping at the waist and hips to create the illusion of curves. Belted dresses and flouncy skirts are also excellent choices.
Flattering Garments:
- Dresses belted at the waist.
- Flared skirts.
- Blouses with detailing at the waist.
Sewing Tips:
- Adjust seams to create pleats and draping.
- Use elastic in the seams to achieve a snug fit at the waist.
Hourglass:
Characteristics: You have a defined waist and your shoulders and hips are similar in size.
Recommended Fabric: Opt for fabrics that fit your figure well, such as denim, tweed and twill fabric. High-quality stretch fabrics also work well.
Enhance and Conceal: Highlight your waist with fitted dresses, V-neck blouses and flared skirts. Avoid fabrics that are too stiff and can make your figure look boxy.
Flattering garments:
- Fitted dresses that highlight the waist.
- V-neck blouses.
- Flared skirts.
Sewing Tips:
- Use patterns that accentuate the waist.
Make sure seams are precise and cinched at the waist.
- Pear:
Characteristics: Your hips are wider than your shoulders.
Recommended Fabric: Look for fabrics that drape well, such as wool, cotton, jersey and viscose.
Enhancement and Disguise: Choose blouses and dresses that highlight your shoulders and bust. Straight-cut skirts and pants with a little room at the bottom will help balance your figure.
Flattering garments:
- Blouses with shoulder detailing.
- Straight cut pants.
- Flounced skirts.
Sewing Tips:
Make sure seams on pants and skirts are straight and not too tight in the hips.
- Inverted Triangle:
Characteristics: Your shoulders are wider than your hips.
Recommended Fabric: Opt for soft, flowing fabrics that don’t add extra volume on top, such as silk and chiffon.
Enhance and Conceal: Look for clothes that highlight your hips, such as ruffled skirts or flared pants. Avoid shoulder pads and puffed sleeves that can accentuate your shoulders.
Flattering garments:
- Skirts with ruffles at the bottom.
- Flared pants.
- Dresses that flare downward.
Sewing Tips:
- Avoid adding bulky details at the top of garments.
- Use simple seams at the top.
- Circle:
Characteristics: Your weight tends to accumulate in the abdomen area.
Perfect Fabric: Opt for fabrics with good elasticity and structure, such as knitted jersey and stretch fabric.
Enhancement and Disguise: Look for clothes that are not too tight in the tummy area. Crossover dresses and belted tunics can create a more balanced look. Avoid stiff fabrics that may make you feel uncomfortable.
Flattering Garments:
- Belted crossover dresses.
- Loose-fitting tunics with waist detailing.
- High-waisted pants.
Sewing Tips:
- Add belts or seam details that accentuate the waist.
- Avoid tight seams in the abdominal area.
General Sewing Tips:
- Use patterns that suit your body type.
- Adjust seams for a perfect fit.
- Pay attention to the direction of the fabric when cutting your pieces.
- Try different sewing techniques, such as gathers and pleats, to enhance and conceal.
- Make sure seams are clean and strong to make your garments last longer.
Remember that confidence is the key to looking fabulous on any body type. Experiment with different fabrics and styles to find what makes you feel the best, sew, and look radiant in your creations! And remember that on Instagram you can see new news and you have a Facebook group for your doubts.