"The first step in achieving excellent fit in fashion with a minimum of alteration and fitting is the selection of a pattern that fits properly from the start! It's a good idea for home sewers to take measurements periodically so that they can be sure of selecting the pattern type and size with the best fit. This is especially important for growing children and youth whose figures have not yet completed development, for people who gain or lose weight easily, and for mature adults as their figures change. In just a matter of months, one's figure may change enough to change the size or type of pattern needed for best fit." - College of Agriculture and Home Economics New Mexico State University