I always pre-plan and lay out my outfits before shooting them – just in case they need to be ironed, washed, or changed. What often happens is that an outfit looks amazing in my head and then less than amazing on my body. (Today’s outfit isn’t quite that- but it did look better in my head. I need a more fitted top like this next time).
Anyway, last week when I was preparing outfits to shoot I noticed something a bit annoying. In the six outfits I laid out (all with skirts), the sizes of the skirts ranged from 00 to 8. Yep, somehow in the same half hour I could jump from a double zero to an eight. (Neither of which is my true size if we’re going off waist measurements).
Now, I’m sure many of you have experienced varied sizing when out shopping. Different stores will sway one way or another, or vanity sizing can come into play. For example, if I shop at any UK brand (H&M, TopShop, ASOS), I’m almost always a 6, although I can range from a 4-8. At Gap brands (Banana Republic, Old Navy, Athleta, Gap) I’m almost always a 0-2. And apparently at J.Crew I can wear anywhere from a 00-2.
But, its important to remember the cut, fabric and even the color of the fabric make a different. This pink version of this skirt fit in one size, but the EXACT same skirt in navy fabric didn’t, so I sized up.
My point here is that me wearing a skirt in 00 or an 8 doesn’t change anything about me. And truly, those numbers are arbitrary. It’s easy to get hung up on the size on the tag, but sometimes you need to find the size that fits you best, whatever that size is. [it will always be more flattering when it fits correctly!] It used to bug me when I’d have to size way up (hello Forever 21), so I would cut the tag out. Now, it doesn’t really bother me, because I’m more focused on finding a flattering and comfortable fit than I am about what size the tag is.
So when you’re out shopping, look for clothes that make you feel great, and don’t be afraid to try on sizes other than your “normal” size, because there is really no such thing!
Thanks for stopping by today, have a great Monday.
xo, Maddy
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Love your points! I definitely struggle with both weight and sizes too much – I think way too much into it!!
Its hard, I totally agree with you. I’m still working to be better about the number on the scale – but I think I’ve conquered my fears of the number on the tag!