September 4, 2015
What's right in this picture? Hint: I'm talking about the 3 gals on the right!
Why is it easier for us to see what's wrong than to see what's right?
Actually when we put a garment on to check the fit, style and all the other stuff, that's exactly what we're looking for - is what's wrong to fix it. But the problem here is that we're overlooking what's right. And that leads to another problem which is when things are right it's harder to notice, and further harder to enumerate.
The ladies above all look good and professional, but at first glance it's hard to enumerate specifically what's right.
Knowing what's wrong with a garment actually makes us much better shoppers than those who don't know how to sew. When you know all the mistakes that can be made, you can see them glaringly in RTW.
What I like to call the double standard of shopping and comparing our sewing to RTW is that RTW can get away with a ton of mistakes, but one little bump on our work, and it's a failure.
Huh?!!!!
How did this happen. We judge RTW by very VERY low standards, but expect Parisian Couture House standards in our own sewing. You may say that's the purpose of sewing is so you can make it perfect.
Folks, I'm here to tell ya right now - give up that fantasy - that ain't gerna happen. Even the most professional will admit (especially if they're professional), that their work is not perfect in every way. Perfect is a state of absolute that is impossible in nature - such as a complete vacuum, or the lowest (or highest) temperature. These are absolutes that are there only as means of reference only. So stop thinking that your work must be perfect. And
by all means when there is a mistake, don't point it out. My bet is that no one will notice (OK, except Aunt Martha, but we all know Aunt Martha doesn't have a life, and she has issues!!!!!!)
It's just as vital when we're checking our garments, to know what's right about them as much as what's wrong. My bet is that what's right is a lot longer list than what's wrong. But you have to first know what's right.
So what's right in the photo above?
First, none of them aspire to be models . They all have regular figures which means they all have differences in how their bodies hold muscle, bone, skin and fat. They are all four differently shaped. They all four have different styles and none of them are runway model sizes nor do they aspire to be.
Secondly, they all hold responsible positions and.....
- Their clothes proport their positions of responsibility.
- Their clothes hang well from their shoulders - no tilting
- Their clothes don't fit skin tight, they are shaped to their bodies for comfort and function
- Their clothes project their positions of responsibility and finally
- Their clothes are classic.
Next time you're doing a fitting of your garments, remember to look at what's right as well as what's wrong.
Wondering What Design U is All About?
Design U is designed for sewists who want to learn more about making their garments have a more professional look, but also a more flattering look. Sewing is great, but it's also about fashion. No matter what stage in life you are in, looking good should always be a priority, and looking your best not only makes you feel better, it puts your best foot forward. After dressing my clients in all shapes, sizes and styles for over
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Because you know what?.....you should expect all those things -
1. looking good - no matter what size,
2. getting excited about your clothes and making clothes for yourself and
3. being comfortable in your clothes. I've had them for the 40 years I've been sewing, and that's the knowledge, inspiration and joy I want to pass onto you!
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