The average height for women is 5’4.”
Therefore, a lot of clothing stores cater to women of this height, making it difficult for taller women to get clothes that fit properly. Whether it’s finding sleeves that are long enough, pants that don’t look like capris or dresses that aren’t automatically mini-dresses, clothing shopping as a woman over 5’4” is not a walk in the park.
Getting help from a tailor is a fantastic way to improve your wardrobe and get clothing that fits you no matter how tall you are.
Tailoring can make articles of clothing work for any body type. Wearing clothes that actually fit you can help you gain confidence and additionally make the clothing last longer. Every body is different so make sure your clothes are customized for your unique shape. Here are some top tailoring tips for tall women.
Tip One: Don’t Pay Attention to Your Size
Ensure the clothing you buy is the right size for you before you even go to a tailor, but ignore the size on the clothing tag. You likely have a general idea of your number or whether you’re a small, medium or large, but whenever you try on clothing, grab at least two sizes to try on. Numbers vary between countries, stores, clothing brands and even fits. For example, a pair of skinny jeans in a size eight could be your perfect fit but boyfriend jeans from the same brand in a size four might also work for you. For the most part, sizing is subjective.
Additionally, if you’re shopping online always keep tabs on your measurements from your shoulders to your ankles and make sure they align with the clothing you’re planning to purchase. Read comments or reviews of online retailers to ensure the clothing is true to size or measurements.
Tip Two: Know your Body
We’ve already mentioned that sizes are irrelevant. It’s more important to know your body and how your clothing fits. If you notice your ankles are always exposed in your jeans or there is an inch of skin peeking out from beneath your t-shirts, it’s time to readjust your sizing. Proper sizing will likely cause you to gain confidence because when you wear clothes that actually flatter your figure you’ll feel a lot better. It’s better to buy items that are too big or long and get them taken in by a tailor than have a wardrobe full of clothing items that are too small or short. For example, buy a skirt that might be considered a maxi on some body types and have the hem taken up instead of buying a mini skirt that may not be appropriate to leave the house in.
Tip Three: Know What a Tailor Can Do
Tailors are talented but they’re not magicians. Here are just a few of the alterations they are capable of making:
• Adjusting the shape and size of a garment to fit your body. Tailors can take in a seam or hem a maximum of four inches. Unfortunately, any more than this will irreversibly alter the shape of the item of clothing and likely damage it. Keep this is in mind when shopping for clothes. Make sure the tailor follows the shape of your body. They’ll have to follow of the unique curves of your arms, legs, back, shoulders, breasts and stomach so ensure your tailor takes extensive measurements.
• Taking clothes in. We advise against buying clothes that are too small. However, if necessary, tailors are able to make some garments roomier. It helps if there are side seams or zippers in the article of clothing. Additionally, in looser items like blouses or dresses, slits or vents can be added to make it larger. If your favourite clothing item is slightly too small, don’t let it go just yet.
• Creating the perfect length. As aforementioned, hems can be moved up or in some cases, taken in. If you love a pair of pants and find they’re too short when worn with heels but too long when worn with flats or sneakers, consider buying two pairs and having them tailored for each style of shoe.
• Tapering your silhouette. There is a variety of adjustments a tailor can make to create the silhouette you want. Tailors can close up pockets, close gaping buttons or sew darts to provide a different shape.
Now that you have three handy tips for tailoring, take any ill-fitting garments to Love Your Tailor today. Get an online quote to get a better idea of our rates and what we can do. We are dedicated to altering your clothing to ensure it fits your body, whatever size or shape you are.
