I rarely buy clothes online. Partly because I’m old-school and like to see, touch and feel fabrics – in real life. But mostly because I’m anal about the way garments fit. Online is fine if you have a favourite brand and know the right size or alternatively are shopping for roomy, relaxed clothes. Otherwise, there’s a whole load of back-and-forth with returns.
And shoes are impossible. Particularly if you’re a half-size. According to ReBound, a company specialising in the return of goods for many online retailers including Asos, Boden and Hobbs, about 30 per cent of clothes bought online are returned. What a palaver. Not to mention all the packaging and couriering, and the environmental impact.
After many years working as a fashion editor and countless reader makeovers, people often ask for my style advice. The most important guidance I can offer is to “get the fit right”. Make sure the shape is spot-on and comfortable to wear. Choose feel-good fabrics and avoid itchy or scratchy materials, your skin and patience will thank you. Go for status over flimsy-ness –clothes that support. “The secret to dressing with confidence is choosing the right pieces that work for you,” says Polly McMaster, CEO and founder of the Fold. “The design and fit are crucial – you need to feel comfortable and unrestricted. There’s nothing more distracting than an ill-fitting dress, uncomfortable shoes, a skirt that keeps riding up or the wrong underwear.” She’s not wrong.
The issue with off-the-peg clothing is that it is designed to fit a standard size – and most of us are not a standard size. This is where a good tailor or alterations service comes in handy – and why a lot of women make their own clothes. For me, trousers are always tricky. I have a long body and so trousers tend to be too short in the rise, which, as well as being uncomfortable is a major bugbear. I do not want to spend my life hoicking denim from between my buttocks. So, I’d rather go up a size instead. “A golden rule is not to get hung up on the number on the label,” concurs personal stylist Rebecca Clouston (rebeccacloustonstyle.com), “and instead be truthful about the fit. There is no shortcut – try lots on and if it means sizing up for a flattering outcome, don’t hesitate.” Don’t compromise. Persistence pays off.
Armhole fit is another problem. Areas where there’s movement can often be aggravation points (neckline and waist included). Fortunately, the Cocoon pressed wool coat from Harris Wharf is more of a “coatigan”, so there’s less of an issue with armpit restriction. There’s no point in squeezing yourself into clothes that are too tight and will make you feel self-conscious. Similarly, too loose is equally bothersome. The old bra constantly falling off the shoulder, tailored trousers with a saggy crotch and excessive fabric around the nether regions that stands up when you sit down.
Faffing around with ill-fitting clothes is not the way to look chic. Be ruthless. Spend time finding clothes that fit right and sit right, this is a sure-fire way to look good and feel confident. Dress to feel your best. Who doesn’t want that?
