| Example | Very Close Fit
minus 5-10% |
Close Fit
Actual Body |
Normal Fit
plus 5-10% |
Loose Fit
plus 10-15% |
Oversized
more than 15% |
| (Form Fitting) | (Body Hugging) | (Body Skimming) | (Hangs Straight) | (Roomy) | |
| 36 | 34" | 36" | 38" | 41" | more than 41" |
How Much ease should I add? This is a very personal decision. The chart above gives the general amounts allowed for different types of fit. However, inch amounts alone are not the total answer. Lightweight garments require less ease than heavy ones. A lightweight ribbed Poor Boy style will probably be made to actual body measurements, while a bulky cabled jacket may have 8-10" additional.
One of the best tips is to measure a favorite sweater, taking note of the weight and type of fabric. Most pullover sweaters, which are meant to be worn in place of a blouse or shirt, include 2-4" ease at the chest.
Irene Woods
P.O. Box 637
Wickenburg, AZ 85358
(928) 684-2969
© 1997-2002 by Irene Woods
Email: irenewoods@clearwater.net