There are many elements of fit to consider. Not only the physical fit of clothing, but also the psychological and lifestyle elements of fit.
Jill Chivers of 16 Style Types and I have discussed the physical elements of fit here.
In this video we discuss some of the broader elements of fit such as lifestyle and how you like clothes to fit regarding your personality.
Lifestyle Fit
When considering your lifestyle, it’s good to ask yourself some of these questions:
- What do you do?
- What kinds of clothes do you need for your lifestyle?
- What are the practical considerations of fit that you need to consider?
- Do I want to hide or be seen?
- What kind of clothes fit into the location you’re in?
- Does it fit the occasion?
- Is it appropriate?
- You may find this post useful in thinking further about this element of fit.
I like clothes that are comfortable, and as I work from home I don’t need particularly formal clothes, so knits feature prominently in my wardrobe.
Personality Fit
Moving onto your personality and what feels psychologically comfortable for you. Here are some questions to ponder:
- What do I want to express through my clothes?
- How do I want my clothes to fit me?
- Do I want to be showing off or hiding my body?
- What will make me feel psychologically comfortable in each situation?
We discussed the main personality dressing styles which also influence how you may like to dress:
Classic Personality Style – fitted and structured but not tight or revealing, but also not loose or sloppy
Relaxed Personality Style – looser fit, comfort is a driver in choice
Dramatic Personality Style – more fitted and tighter in a structured way
Creative Personality Style – can be a rule breaker regarding fit
Rebellious Personality Style – tight and form-fitting (for those who are alluring), showing skin,
Feminine Personality Style – feminine fit to show off the female form, not necessarily tight fitting
Elegant Chic Personality Style – fitted in a softly structured way
What are the important elements of fit for you?
Are they the psychological or physical aspects of fit?
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This is such an important conversation. I remember spending lots of money on what I thought was an “appropriate job interview suit”. I never wore it again because it was so soft in color (light pink & grey) and extremely classic in style that it never felt right on me. After my 7 steps program, I have embraced my Elegant color palette and my need for bolder more edgy elegant clothing. Love these videos!
This is an especially important consideration for me, who has a style that has always (from the time I was a little girl!) consistently been dressier than what usually fits my lifestyle and locations. I have even been known to go hiking in a skirt (though not usually), because I do love hiking and the outdoors…. However, I also have certain comfort issues that also must be met, especially since the vast majority of ready-made clothes do not fit me right — if they are garments made to fit. Shapeless styles, as well as a great many casual clothes do not exactly fit my cup of tea, but I am one of those mamas of small children and need a certain amount of casualness in my wardrobe. I also have a love of gardening — so I often feel like I have complete raggy clothes or my dressier things — trying to bridge the gaps between what I know is my style and what is “really me” and my activities and life is constant challenge…but I’m at a point where I’m trying to do that again…because, somehow, it must be able to be done…. I’ve even started wearing jersey and knits some! I have always preferred the natural fibers in wovens, rather than knits….. But, sometimes experimentation can be very useful…… 🙂
Imogene and Jill you make very complex ideas so understandable and thought provoking. Fit does go beyond centimetres like Jill says and it plays a huge role in the message we communicate via our clothing. I am in a place where I am discovering that space between gardening clothes formal attire. I have dressed with poor fit for a long time and am so energized by creating a closet of clothes I truly love. Fit is a huge part of that!
Thank you