Plus Size Fashion Construction: 5 DOS and 1 DON'T

TL;DR

Tips and insights for designing and constructing plus-size fashion, including considerations for different body types, dart usage, hemming, waistbands, and straps.

Transcript

hey hey party people today we're going to be talking about construction considerations for plus-size fashion and uh disclaimer number one I don't really like to turn plus- size because it's like comparing plus to straight size we got to find a better word for that uh disclaimer number two I have a lot of these tips so if you want a series let me kn... Read More

Key Insights

• 🧡 Different body types within the plus-size range require careful consideration when pattern making for a better fit.
• 🎯 Dart usage should be reevaluated to accommodate specific body shapes and distribute fabric excess evenly.
• 🤣 Hemming skirts while the fit model is wearing them ensures a parallel hemline to the floor and accounts for individual body shape concerns.
• 🤱 Wide waistbands provide comfort and support, while sturdier straps are recommended for larger breasts.
• 🏋️ Height and weight do not always correlate, so automatically making plus-size garments longer is unnecessary.
• 🧔‍♀️ The market for petite curvy plus-size women exists, and designers should recognize their specific fit needs.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does weight gain affect pattern making for plus-size fashion?

Weight gain can vary between individuals, even within the plus-size range. Designers should consider different body types and how weight is distributed for better pattern making.

Q: Do breasts always grow proportionally with weight gain?

No, breasts do not always grow proportionally with weight gain. Some individuals may notice weight gain in other areas without an increase in breast size.

Q: How should darts be used in plus-size fashion?

Dart usage should be reconsidered based on body shape and fit requirements. Depending on the body type, more or fewer darts may be needed in specific areas for a better fit.

Q: Why is it important to hem skirts while the fit model is wearing them?

Hemming skirts while the fit model is wearing them ensures that the hemline is parallel to the floor and takes into account any specific body shape concerns, such as a bigger belly or a flatter butt.

Q: Why should the waistband be widened in plus-size garments?

Wide waistbands provide more comfort and prevent painful digging into the body. They can be constructed with firm materials or elastic with drawstrings for better fit and support.

Q: Are spaghetti straps suitable for plus-size fashion?

Rethinking spaghetti straps is advised, as sturdier and slightly wider straps provide better support and are more comfortable for individuals with larger breasts.

Q: Is it necessary to make plus-size garments longer?

It is not necessary to automatically make plus-size garments longer, as height and weight do not always align. The length should be determined based on individual fit requirements rather than assuming a taller stature.

Q: Can you provide tips for designing for petite curvy plus-size women?

When designing for petite curvy plus-size women, consider their specific fit needs and create garments that suit their proportions. A market exists for this demographic, as seen with the example of Leslie Jones and other petite curvy individuals who struggle to find well-fitting clothes.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Consider different body types when pattern making for plus-size fashion, as weight gain can vary between individuals and affect fit.

• Rethink dart usage to accommodate specific body shapes, such as placing darts strategically for curves or eliminating them for certain areas.

• Hem skirts while the fit model is wearing them to ensure the hemline is parallel to the floor and accounts for body shape.

• Widening waistbands can increase comfort, while sturdier straps provide better support for larger breasts.

• Avoid automatically making plus-size garments longer, as height and weight do not always correlate.