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Too frequently, even the most accomplished sewer finds the
results of her efforts simply hanging in the closet or being
worn self-consciously.
In most cases, such discouraging experiences cannot be blamed
on the actual sewing, but rather on the optical illusion that
was created because of the pattern design that was used, or the
fabric chosen for the garment.
Keep in mind that every pattern design looks becoming on the
models used on the pattern envelope; however, if you're like me,
we all have lumps and bumps and problem areas that those models
don't reveal. The planning stage of every garment should be
done with the realization that garments nearly always create
SOME kind of an optical illusion. The trick is to make sure the
illusion will be flattering and not disappointing! Following are
some examples of optical illusions that can occur with various
types of sewing patterns and fabrics.
A "narrowing" effect occurs with princess or A-lines making one
appear to be slimmer. Sleeveless, short or cap sleeves or tight
sleeves call attention to, and display, the arms. If you have
heavy upper arms or are self conscious about extra thin arms,
find patterns that won't draw immediate attention to the arms.
Solid colors, vertical lines and narrow V-lines will heighten
a body. Contrasting colors in tops and skirts as well as big
bold prints, will shorten it.
Raglan and dolman sleeves will narrow the shoulders, while
wide collars and padded shoulders give the illusion of wider
shoulders.
A fabric that clings to the body can give a skeletal impression
on too-thin body parts. However, around bulges, the clinging
fabric can create cruel, framing shadows. A more loosely
woven fabric will be kinder to the thin or thick areas.
Mandarin, turtleneck or scarf-tied collars, chokers and fussy
necklines can shorten an already short neck, but be beneficial
to a long one.
A jabot, splashy or bold prints, round and low necklines, or
long ties on a scarf make busts look larger. Hips will seem to
increase in girth with tight or full skirts and with trimmed
skirts. The A-lines or princess style skirts will create a
more slimming appearance.
Figures appear rounder and fuller in double breasted jackets
and blouses, in large prints and plaids and full skirts.
Waists seem to expand with wide or conspicuous belts or buckles
or with bulky or stiff fabrics. Dresses with several rows of
elastic sewn at the waistline will appear to thicken the waist
and shorten your height, while semi-fitted dresses with v-line
designs and A-line skirt will give a thinner and taller
appearance.
It takes a cool head to pass up a gorgeous fabric or attractive
pattern, by allowing past experiences to come to mind and to
realize that similar choices had proven disappointing. At the
same time, remember which garments have been a joy to wear and
have gotten countless compliments. Not all fabrics and patterns
are suited to every body type, therefore it is up to each one
of us to determine what will work for our particular body type.
With the wide variety of fabrics and patterns available, there
will be a very large selection to choose from, even though we
are making a conscious decision to eliminate those few that
really won't work for us.
About The Author: Sarah J. Doyle is author of over 25 sewing, craft and how-to books, as well as author of online pattern making, sewing and craft classes. Visit http://SewWithSarah.com for information on books, classes, newsletters and the latest hints and tips and http://SarahJDoyle.com for additional free articles.
(c) Copyright 2004, Sarah J. Doyle. All Rights Reserved.
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