Getting the Right Fit

Hints for getting clothes that fit:

* Try them on. Because uniformity in cut and sewing is difficult to maintain, same-size garments often fit differently, even within the same brand.

* Keep in mind that the style of a garment can make a difference. A slim pant or slim skirt often requires a larger size, since hips may not come into play as much as in a full skirt.

* Don’t assume that a label is accurate. A University of Minnesota study of 240 pairs of jeans found that the stated inseam and waist sizes often differed significantly from actual measurements.

* If a thickening waistline is a problem, look for skirts and pants into which manufacturers have added a discreet bit of elastic at the waistband sides. Knits are returning to popularity for the same reason.

* Make sure the shoulders of a garment fit. Side seams can be let out and hems taken up, but shoulders are expensive to alter.

* When calling to order from a catalogue, take advantage of the knowledge many of the operators or “customer representatives” have. The better trained are provided with specific details about whether a garment is oversized or fits true to size.