We have some great tips if you’re either larger or have an area that you don’t want to focus on (and who doesn’t?).
Finding a garment that’s flattering can make you feel AWESOME! You have to stop yourself from picking it out of your closet every day and you make SURE it’s always laundered and ready to go.
These tips are great for getting a more flattering fit for tops of all sorts – not just sweaters.
Styles to Avoid
Avoid colorwork across bust
If you’re already busty, you don’t need to highlight it even more.
Avoid all over cables that go vertically if you’re busty or have other places that go out (and shouldn’t)
Basically, if the lines don’t go straight down, don’t get it. I know you’re missing out on lots of cute styles, but this one just isn’t for you.
Move on.
Don’t do vertical ribbing – it has the same effect as vertical cables (see above).
Avoid thick, chunky yarn
Don’t do a wide collar or yoked colorwork
Don’t do turtlenecks
But if you want to, put them under something that creates a vertical line – a cardigan, shirt or even a jacket.
Styles to Embrace
Add horizontal or vertical bust darts to avoid the inverse scoop
The inverse scoop says it’s a poorly-fitted top. That’s not the statement you’re trying to make.
V neck – YES
Yes yes yes yes yes.
Yes.
Any time you can create a vertical line, do it. DO IT.
Even a wide collar that has a V neck can work so give them a try!
Sleeves longer than short so they don’t create a horizontal line
Don’t do asymmetrical on its own
It creates one side that’s just a plain swath of fabric.
Cardigans that aren’t buttoned all the way to the top.
The V it creates does the same thing as a V-neck.
Feel free to wear a coordinating shell underneath it that isn’t a V-neck.
And you can vary the number of buttons done if you find multiple heights that work as well.
Make sure it goes in at the waist
Even if you don’t have a waist, nip in a bit to create the illusion of a waist. It just needs to be a bit fitter.
Tricks that aren’t actually in the garment
Wear a scarf to create a V or vertical line
Wear a necklace to do the same thing
Just be sure it’s not long enough to hit the bust and come in because that just looks odd.
Take a picture with a camera
It can show you a ton that your eye won’t see otherwise.
And a good undergarment that fits well is critical!
Get one that fits. Go to a good undergarment store to get measured – you might be surprised that your size has changed.
Enjoy!
Make sure you wear things that make you feel good – styles, colors and of course fit.
I know which colors I like and am drawn to, and I use accessories to bring in other colors. It’s amazing how much a scarf, handbag, shoes or even a hair accessory can be used to bring in other colors!
What Do You Do?
I’m sure you have some great suggestions that I missed. What do you do? What works for you?
About the Instructor: Jody Richards
Jody loves pouring over stitch dictionaries and trying out new stitches. And while she likes all things crafting (well ok, except that one thing), yarn crafts are her true love (and she has the stash to prove it).
She’s a serial starter-of-projects and has a serious problem with finishing things without a deadline.
And don’t get her talking about hand-dyed yarns. You’ve been warned.
I like your article on Sweaters for a flattering fit. You have a lot of great suggestions. Tip: If you’re buying a sweater (and have a mature figure) check out the men’s wear. The sweaters usually have longer sleeves and body and hide more of the butt area.
thanks! that’s a good suggestion.
as someone who’s 5’2″, longer sleeves and body are *not* things I’d want. but, if you’re taller (heck, even average height), your suggestion can be a good one!