For many people, it’s a leap of faith to purchase a pattern and sew a garment. It can be hard to translate the image you see on the pattern cover, to what will work for your body type. Knowing your measurements is only one part of getting a good fit. You also have to choose a flattering silhouette.
To determine what’s best for you, look closely at the styling and lines of your favourite pieces in your closet. Think of the clothes you already own that fit and feel fabulous, and examine the cut of those garments. When you know why you love your favourite wardrobe pieces, you’ll have a better idea of what to look for when purchasing a pattern. Also, take note of elements that you feel are unflattering or elements that you dislike. Sometimes knowing what doesn’t work with your body shape is just as useful as knowing what does.
To help you feel confident in your pattern choice, Vogue patterns has developed a Figure Flattery Guide. This guide works with figure-type symbols that appear on the pattern envelope and online. The symbols are stylized images of particular body shapes:
- Inverted Triangle: Large bust and/or broad shoulders with narrow hips.
- Triangle: Small bust and/or narrow shoulders with full hips and/or thighs.
- Rectangle: Balanced on top and bottom, but little or no waist definition.
- Hourglass: Balanced on top and bottom with waist definition.
Here are four examples of Vogue Patterns that use the Figure Flattery Guide:
- Vogue V8784 (shown in the image here): This dress is suitable for all figure types and displays all four Figure Flattery symbols.
- Vogue V8672: This skirt is recommended for two body types — inverted triangle and hourglass.
- Vogue V2787: This vintage dress is recommended for two body types — triangle and hourglass.
- Vogue V8756: This pant pattern is recommended for three body types — triangle, rectangle, and hourglass.
These symbols let you know which body types the pattern will be particularly flattering on, which should reduce the need for adjustments and increase the likelihood you’ll love your new clothes.
So remember, use pattern guides and select cuts that follow the styling of clothes you already own that flatter your silhouette. Your new garments will fit well and feel fabulous. And why should you expect anything less?