There’s something that is still making many of us feel very anxious: clothing sizes. Have you ever felt frustrated when trying on jeans in one store, and then realized that they are a different size in another? I’m sure we’ve all been there. Let’s face it, sizing is inconsistent, chaotic and kind of irrelevant when it comes to personal style. It’s time to stop obsessing over numbers and prioritizing something more important… the fit.
If you’ve been chasing the perfect size, this is a game-changing truth. How something fits your body is everything. Size is only a label. And fit actually defines how comfortable, confident and effortlessly stylish you will fit in your clothes.
Size is a guideline
The reality is that there isn’t a universal size chart. In a brand, a size 8 could be 12 in another. Let’s not even start with vintage sizing. Honestly, it’s like playing roulette with your self-esteem. And the number on the tag doesn’t know your shape, proportions, muscle tone, or even your lifestyle. It’s basically a factory code and not really the reflection of your beauty or worth.
When we finally give ourselves permission to stop caring about fitting into a goal size and start caring about clothes hugging us in the right places, everything will change. Shopping will become more joyful; you’ll feel more confident and your closet will start to work for you instead of against you.
Image from: https://www.theundone.com/blogs/beundone/why-you-should-tailor-your-clothes
Fit instantly enhances your confidence
Have you ever worn something that technically fits your size but still feels off? Maybe it’s the waist gap, the sleeves bunch or the hips feel too tight. And that’s the difference between fit and size.
A piece that fits well should move with your body, flatter your best features and make you feel a more polished version of yourself. Even in something as simple as a tee or jeans. And let’s be honest, that kind of confidence radiates. It will change the way you walk, how you hold yourself and how others will perceive your style.
Surely, we’ve seen people wear the most basic outfits, but as the fit was perfectly tailored to them, they’ll look like they just walked off a street style shoot in Paris. Remember fit is fashion’s secret sauce.
Image from: https://www.women.com/1407344/clothing-hacks-flattering-every-body-shape-size/
Fit is personal
Let’s normalize this: we all have different bodies. Some people are curvy with smaller waists, some have broader shoulders. Others have long torsos, or short legs, or the opposite. And all of that is normal.
This is why it’s important to dress for your proportions, not just your size. For example, a blazer might be technically your size, but if it pulls at the buttons or swallows your frame, then it’s not the right fit. You need to look for pieces that cater to your unique body lines. Even better if you get things tailored.
Tailoring is a game changer. Don’t think it’s only for business suits or weddings. Take everything from your jeans to your oversized jackets to your local seamstress. It will be an investment that makes affordable pieces look like they are designer ones.
Image from: https://shopbetseys.com/products/perfect-fit-quarter-zip-pullover
The Psychology of size vs fit
There’s also a mental health aspect to the conversation. Most of us were raised to think that smaller is better and if you move up sizes then, that’s a failure. Let’s forget about that nonsense.
When you focus on the fit instead, it will change the whole narrative. You’ll start asking yourself if you feel amazing on what you are wearing. Or if a certain piece flatter you. And this instead of thinking if the size matches the number on your head. This will definitively be a powerful mindset shift that can seriously impact the relationship with your body.
Remember that you’re not the problem. The sizing system is.
Image from: https://bucklemybelt.com/blogs/news/leather-belt-sizing-guide-finding-the-perfect-fit-for-women
