Body Types for Dressmaking
- Typical body types are the easiest to make dresses for. The body parts are proportional to each other and weight is distributed evenly. Don't worry too much about the cut, shape or color because this body type looks good in everything.
- The hourglass body shape is envied all over the world. It was imitated widely with corsets in the 1800s. The hips and bust are aligned and separated by a small, well-defined waist. When making your dress, don't be too worried because this body type is deemed perfect by many and you can't go wrong. Corset bodices and two-piece dresses are good ideas that you can use while making a dress for this body type.
- In pear-shaped body types, most of the fat is under the waist on the hips, thighs, lower back and behind. While making a dress for this body type you should remember to accentuate the upper half. Using a light-colored bodice and dark-colored bottom can help in slimming the body down. A-lined skirts also look good on this body type. Make sure it's form-fitting and concealing. For a more festive occasion, you could make a ball gown with a dome-shaped bottom. Using a tight bodice will enhance the bust and the dome will conceal the weight on the hips.
- Slim body types are rectangular in shape and considered boyish. The hips and bust are small and aligned, separated by a slim waist. Slender bodies usually have long arms and legs. While making a dress for this shape, you must remember to draw attention to the waist by adding belts and ornaments to the waist. You can also make very short dresses to slow off the long, slim legs.
- Heavy, or oval-shaped, body types carry more fat on the abdomen. The hips, thighs and lower back are very wide. When making a dress for this body type, try to take away attention from the middle area of the body and bring it to the top. Try making a dress with a deep neckline on a fitted bodice, with a flared bottom to hide any unwanted fat. You can also add designs and broaches to the shoulder area.