We all have different body types. Tall, short, wide, skinny, and all sorts of proportions in between. Many of us are also in transition or have transitioned from one body type to another for various reasons. This post is meant to provide some general guidance before we get specific.

First, body types. When shopping it is important to try things on. If you can’t get to a store to try items on, always check an online providers return policy. notable things to check for are return labels, restocking fees, shipping costs, and most importantly read the return policy!

Also be sure to purchase a measuring tape to measure you body. Having a good idea of you body’s measurements will help you identify the correct fit and size of a piece. It is important to know your body and if possible feel comfortable in it.

Something most people forget is that bodies change. fluffyPig went on a fitness journey. While they lost a substantial amount of weight bones don’t change shape. So they still have a 36 inch hip, but the waist size is different. Also, no matter how fit fluffyPig gets their height doesn’t change, but their inseam might.

This means you should always have your body journey in mind. That and a good tailor is your best friend!

Next, fits. There as many different fits as their are stats in the universe. We decided to separate this from sizing since the fit of a piece of clothing is important based on your body type. There slim, tight, relaxed, fitted, loose, and other fits as deemed by a designer within the fashion industry. AnderWho loves a fitted look for his tops and a slim fit for their bottoms since he has a narrow body type. While fluffyPig is more off the rack regular fit. A fit has more to do with you body frame then anything.

Finally, sizing. Be prepared to do math to convert metric to imperial and vice versa. Also, different brands have different numbers which correlate to different sizes. This is when knowledge of your body type and fit become important! Some brands run notoriously slim and small. Even their loosest garments are meant for only the most waifish customers. Others still are meant to hang and drape. It is important to read size guides and not be deterred by having to wear an XXL in brand A versus a M in brand B. All of these numbers are non-standard are a simply meant, we believe, to force us to do math.

So, that pretty much covers the basic run down of how to start looking at the best fashion for you! Body Type + Fit + Size = A Fashionable You!