I analyzed my body type to understand why I don’t like anything I make (and how I can fix it)

Heyo! This started out as a wardrobe design video for myself, then evolved into a body type deep dive. I realized I wasn't ready to start sewing more of the same stuff again. I needed more direction. Maybe it will offer you some guidance too!
OF INTEREST
Clothing recommendations for Kibbe body types: gabriellearruda.com/kibbe-bod...
Jules Beth for short-waists: / @julesbeth
Advice for pear-shapes: www.kitandkaboodal.com/clothe...
My old Clara costuming fansite lol: mariahscostumesite.weebly.com...
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Intro
01:05 Considerations for my Body Type
06:26 Analyzing an Expert
10:59 Make it Make Sense
16:22 Formulating my Ideal Wardrobe
18:48 Where should I Start?
23:39 A nice, long Chicken Update 🐓
FIND ME ELSEWHERE
Patreon for patterns: / mariahpattie
Instagram for updates: / ​
My second channel for worldbuilding: / @mariahpattieworldbuil...
Linktree for everything else: linktr.ee/mariahpattie

[@dunkel429]

This is exactly why I also fell down the “color season” rabbit hole. When you make the stuff yourself, you want to know for sure that at least the color and silhouette are not going to be problems.

[@gittevandevelde2208]

The color season rabbithole is a big one too indeed. I've dabbled in many systems related to this but end up going for a custom palette, knowing and sometimes applying what i learnt from those systems. (The palette can be broken down to a bunch of medium chroma to soft roses, berry, green (general lol), seafoam-seagreen-teal, warm blue, specific shades of purple, bluegreenish off black, dark taupe/cool brown, a sorta soft eggplant taupe and rosewood, and a host of warmer greys/light taupes/ greengoldkhakis. It all works together. It is between soft autumn and summer but slightly brighter in seasonal terms)

[@elsa_g]

@@gittevandevelde2208 I think that is the best method to use, take the palettes as a starting point and see how you look and feel in the different colors to make your own custom palette

[@gittevandevelde2208]

btw, for what it's worth, I think Mariah is working with a soft & deep autumn palette + random black & wavy & brighter red cus why not, she could look at those palettes for extra color inspo.

[@MariahPattie]

Yes that’s basically what I like, but I’m trying to focus less on an exact palette right now and just use up fabric I already have, as long as it at least works together. I find that I tend to fall into a hole of looking for an exact fabric shade, which is difficult to do online. It’s another reason I’ve seen so much waste. In the future I’d like to get better at dying and narrow down my palette that way.

[@liav4102]

I’ve been flirting with trying to figure out color seasons for a decade. I’ve learned a lot but never really which season I fall into lol, at least I know some colors to gravitate to and a few to avoid.

[@KenZchameleon]

"I have a skeleton in the way." I feel this so hard.

[@IsmayVerbeek]

This was actually the exact reason why I stopped sewing when I was younger. I made well made garments that were so disappointing on me when I tried them on.. Now I started sewing again and I am doing the same thing, analyzing my figure/kibbe and my color analysis so I just want to be sure I am actually making garments now that fit me!

[@rosiegold1441]

😅oo

[@amyjohoppins1087]

same - won ribbons in 4H and at high school competitions and all, but never liked anything really I made because of never being taught how to fit me. But thank G-D for the availability of good info like Mariah Pattie's today!

[@feleciah7872]

Holy crap!! I knew I have a shorter waist, but didn't piece together that THIS is why a lot of classic fashion advice doesn't work the way it "should", like adding a belt to emphasize my waist, my smallest part. Or why turtle necks seem to work well on me despite having a larger bust (I was taught that low necklines tend to work better on larger busts). I definitely need to research more, but thank you for putting this together!!

[@MariahPattie]

Thank you! That’s what I was hoping for!

[@eridanuskelpi3908]

Another guy here, wanted to comment the same 😁 Made a bodice block yesterday and can now start with shirts

[@PhilippaRichard]

I think this is my issue too. I was looking at deeper necklines to deemphasise my bust but find I look better in wide and boat necks, then using something like a scarf, necklace or cardigan to break up the width.

[@leas128]

I agree! This video made a lot of sense for why some styles look so matronly on me and why I Ike mixing edgy and feminine. Thank you Mariah for making this!

[@Anakianaj]

THIS! I had the exact same experience you had.

[@happy_bubble7]

Im short waisted and long butted! What I did was take a picture of me dead on, head to toe with my arms out straight. I then digitially went in and traced my specific outline of my bodh, and where my curves are. I basically made a black and white cartoon that matches my silhouette from front, back and sides. Then I printed it off. Then I lay tracing paper on top and trace out designs based on what I want to emphasize on me. Then on the draft I will write measurements and where I want seams, pleats or darts. Im 6'. Even patterns dont consider this. My butt is longer than my thighs almost, and my thighs are short. So even doing the alterations suggested for height wont work. I have narrow shoulders but fat arms, so nothing fits 2 body parts at the same time....so I came up with this method.

[@minagica]

Fantastic idea!

[@MossyMozart]

@Happy Bubble - Cleaver!

[@emo6577]

I think my problem has always been that I am constantly fighting with my midsection bc of a short torso and a very large chest, so the middle of any outfit looks heavy. Not to mention my personal style preferences (like having button downs and fitted pants) not really working with my body which is always disappointing. But now I know it’s just a matter of making the clothes that make me feel most myself work for my body, not to try and force myself into clothes that don’t feel good

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

​@Em O I just figured out a trick when I took a trip to the mall for an honest-to-God research project. :) I'm short-waisted (5'10 with a 35 in inseam) and heavy chested (42DDD). I figured out that if I have something fitted through the chest and then snug underneath for a hand-width, THEN flaring out softly over my hips, that is the most flattering silhouette I can achieve! It gives me the hourglass without me looking pregnant, which an empire waist usually does, but doesn't go down to my waist visually so it seems more slimming somehow? Also, not having that waterfall / straight down shelf from my apex gives me back my figure. I hope these help you, too!

[@emo6577]

@@thebookwyrmslair6757 incredible! Omg that was so much information but all very helpful. Thank you kind soul ❤️

[@poppyasher]

Yes!!! Join us in the world of knitting! You can tailor garments as you work your way down (or up) and if you still don't like the way a finished garment fits, you can unravel and start again! It's definitely slow fashion, but yarn is much easier to reuse and rework than scraps of fabric.

[@happynaturalist1793]

For some reason I read this with the voice of a villainess recruiting to the dark side….

[@justherbirdy]

Join us, we have so many different yarn possibilities...

[@merrowwood]

Join us, you will never have empty hands again...

[@henrikjoden4016]

This together with the "one rule eight steps" video is becoming my favorite series ever. Even as a guy this is giving me so many ideas for how to approach my own endeavours of sewing my own wardrobe. I'm really enjoying the systematic and holistic approach you're taking. Keep up the good work!

[@AlexJReil]

Agreed. I go back to it every now and then when I need motivation.

[@70122riley]

Do you have any specific recommendations for menswear? I need to start rehabbing my wardrobe but not sure where to start.

[@dianathomas2674]

What I love about the Kibbe body type recommendations is that the aim is to emphasize how to make one shine with the body one has, and not to balance out or hide imbalances. It was a revelation for me to start following the the lines recommended for my body type, when I finally learned enough to find my type.

[@blitzfuria4623]

I think that is great too But the recommondations for my bodytype are not my style at all I am a romantic (even though I might be a bit too tall if i remember correctly but i look extremly short so it does not really matter) and on speciao occasions i like to wear a dress that fits the criteria for that body type and it looks amazing on me But for everyday life i just dont like that style at all

[@dianathomas2674]

@@blitzfuria4623 Oh, no. That's hard. As a Dramatic, I find the recommendations quite restricted. Lovett has a channel where she tries to find difference solutions for different types. How does it work out if you try avoiding sharp lines, and go for a waist emphasis? Not everything has to be frilled and flowery.

[@Sky-bu1jj]

@@blitzfuria4623 That was exactly my problem, too. I'm 5'8, and the line that bothered me most on the test was that "romantics should not be over 5'4". Like, fuck that. I'm just going to wear whatever I want. None of the styles suggested even remotely resembled my own style, and the only worthwhile piece of information I gathered was that I should "show off my waist whenever possible", and I already knew that

[@jadecoolness101]

But most of the recommendations in the video were still "wear this to deemphasise the short waist/long legs/etc" like... What's so wrong with a short waist that it needs to be "balanced?" What's so wrong with short legs that need to be "balanced?" Ditto for long. Who decided what "balance" is? Who decided what good "proportions" are? I AM proportional, this is how my body is meant to be, these are MY proportions. Why is so-called "fashion" all about changing your proportions to match someone else's that are supposedly "superior"? I don't get it.

[@dianathomas2674]

@@jadecoolness101 So very, very true. I haven't read everything Kibbe or the ladies behind the system wrote, but I haven't yet seen this type of wording, though, or I might have overlooked it. Personally, I have found this way of body typing much healthier than let's say the fruit typing, where every recommendation is aimed at seeming other than one already looks like, which to me, is quite damaging, even abusive. Your comment made me think of the general thought around this subject: Before finding the Kibbe system, I once looked for recommendations What to wear with a relatively large chest. The recommendations were How to make a large chest appear smaller. When I looked for makeup recommendations for almond shaped eyes, all I found was How to make your eyes look bigger. Then there was How to make fine hair appear thicker, when I just wanted to know good hair styles for Norduc/Slavic hair type. I wasn't looking for ways to look different, just for what could look the most presentable on me, personally. It's hard to be a woman while constantly bombarded with the message: You suck, you've gotta change into someone else that everyone likes. 🤔

[@jeangrimoire623]

Not going to lie, this whole video was exactly the serotonin I needed.

[@silverdeer2515]

Same

[@victoriango9443]

One quick comment about dressing: consider how you wear your hair can change your silhouette and draw the eye either towards the neckline or away towards some other part of the outfit. I always liked that you drafted all the outfits digitally because it’s super fun. You have beautiful light limbs and sweet curves. You don’t appear short on screen and I think that is because you dress well. Thanks for sharing your journey!

[@XaurianQueen]

The prettier dresses are a fun treat, but i actually really love your "boring" everyday clothes! I rewatch those videos more than the fancier stuff for some reason.

[@MossyMozart]

@XaurianQueen - I am petite with a short waist, too. I feel overwhelmed with puffy sleeves and looser clothing. I feel much better in tailored, militaristic-style, and menswear-styles - things that are more body-conscious without being skin-tight.

[@damaracarpenter8316]

As someone with the opposite problem (wide shoulders, wide waist with fat midsection, narrow hips, skinny legs) it's interesting how fit and flare clothing are my goto as well. the fitted torse and flowy skirt help give the illustion of a SHAPE. lol! I just adore your videos your attention to detail is so inspiring to me.

[@raraavis7782]

Same. Can't do tight on top and bottom, unless I'm in perfect shape. My torso just appears bulky in comparison to my narrow hips and long, lean legs. Stuff like leggings and a loose top *can* work, if the top is just the right length and width. But by far the most flattering is fitted top and Marlene trousers or a flared skirt. It gives the illusion of witdh in the hip area and balances out my proportions.

[@SuzanneAtwood]

I have this body type! We are a goblet. Carherine Zeta Jones also has this. It’s good to look up advice for clothes for this body type.

[@raraavis7782]

@@SuzanneAtwood Ab Goblet! Never heard that one before, but I like it 😅. I'm pretty sure I'm a (flamboyant) natural in the Kibbe system. When I was in my teens and 20s and very lean and in good shape, I kinda looked like a typical 90s model, figure wise. You know, that tall, athletic 'Amazon' type. Unfortunately, this figure type is not very forgiving, when it comes to even moderate weight gain. You go from athletic looking to 'pregnant giraffe' awfully quickly, as I've recently discovered 🫣

[@jamiedoesthings]

Same! I'm so glad I'm not the only one! I think I'm a flamboyant gamine

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

​@Rara Avis I think your body type MIGHT be similar to Nicole Rudolph, a CosTuber who is leaning hard into 1920s Villain as her regular look. 😂 She made a video series last year discussing a 1920s capsule wardrobe, then creating it all. But she also posted a video in which she talks about being more practical in her sewing and creating a modern, wearable wardrobe based on the 1920s silhouette.

[@jennarhodes2724]

About time we got a breakdown of why Clara's wardrobe is so iconic!!

[@juliamarasha2107]

I feel like you're really good at showing how sewing your own wardrobe is actually like and what problems you will face.

[@AlfredEiji]

I saved this in my “Drawing” playlist. These are all design concepts that seem to be useful for character design. I hear a lot about using different body types in character design, and I think knowing how to dress those body types is an interesting layer to effect a more attractive outcome.

[@cassandrabreit5029]

I'm not a minimalist and am not interested in a strict capsule wardrobe but I've realized my wardrobe really doesn't work for me at all. It's made even more complicated by the need for maternity (I've had babies born in summer and winter so I've needed to purchase clothes to fit in both seasons) and breastfeeding friendly (nursing tanks make most tops bf accessible but dresses have to be so particular to be comfortable and practical) clothing. I love how you break all of this down! My body type is very different from yours (tall, classic hourglass with pretty wide shoulders) but you talk about all the things that do and don't work for you and it helps me see what common elements I have throughout my own clothes that make me reach for a shirt over and over again, or make something a garment I only reach for when everything else is covered in my baby's spit up. I need to sit down and come up with my own formula and give my wardrobe a real makeover - even if I'm not in a season of life where it can all be hand made, at least I can cut down a lot of clutter and only own stuff that I actually wear

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

SAME. My wardrobe is 90% v-neck or low scoop t-shirts in solid colors, black yoga pants with the pockets large enough for my cell phone, and sneakers or flip flops. I have no clue what, other than pretty dresses, I can make easily.... but I'm so tired of a shirt not lasting even a season before looking like a pilled, ragged mess.

[@Marialla.]

What I'm hearing is that there's an approximate bust-to-calf length of color that can be shifted up to the neck to create short dresses, or dropped down to the waist to create long skirts. But you shouldn't chop that color block much into shorter pieces (lest your bits look weird) nor lengthen it too much (lest you become matronly).

[@MariahPattie]

That’s a good summary. I’m sure it’s relevant for lots of people, but it seems to be extra important for short waists.

[@Zukhane]

That breaks it down really nicely. But I didn't quite get how the sleeves play into this.🤔

[@MariahPattie]

Sleeves add width, so for me they need to be long enough to balance that width, or short enough to keep that width centered on my shoulders.

[@Zukhane]

@@MariahPattie Thank you I didn't really understand that relationship. I might have a similar problem. By the way I believe in your wedding dress, you respected all of the things you figured out here🤔. It just looked gorgeous on you!

[@Marialla.]

@@Zukhane In my color block theory, I would say sleeves are part of the color block only if they add a significant amount of color to the block. So straps wouldn't count, but puffy cap sleeves might.

[@jeannetteantry1086]

Being short waisted is what started me on my own sewing path. Making my own clothing does give me a way to make my body appear in proportion. Average sized pants that would fit me were always too short for my longer legs. Your story sounds very similar to mine. Dresses would make me look pudgy, without a waist, very unflattering. I learned to sew using what fabrics and patterns I could find. But I was rarely happy with things I sewed. They fit great, but when I would compare my wardrobe to the current styles and clothing others wore, I felt out of place and actually weird in my home sewn clothing. I found a design and pattern making book at the University library years ago, in my role as a Librarian for a laboratory. I learned to make my own patterns and truly fit myself. But it wasn't until the internet and KZbin that I learned how to design clothing that I would enjoy wearing and would fill my closet with clothing that functions together in my color scheme. I encourage anyone who wants to design or hack established patterns to check out the Vlog and website: Silhouette Patterns owned and run by Peggy Sagers. Her biggest tip to understanding what clothing will flatter, is to shop and try things on, to learn your likes and dislikes. And take those garment measurements. It has changed the way I sew. I can now design and sew quality clothing, that I can wear and don't want to chuck because these garments are fabulous and look great on. They also last a lot longer per wearing's. This has enabled me to sew much more intricate designs and to expand my sewing skills in many ways. And to enjoy getting dressed every day now. You are a great resource for women who are trying to figure all this out. You hit a lot of my fitting issues and solutions for them. I love hearing your journey. You are motivating and inspirational. Thanks for sharing all this information. You are a great resource for women who are trying to figure all this out.

[@thebookwyrmslair6757]

I FEEL your pain concerning pants being too short. I'm 5'10 and VERY short-waisted, which gives me a 35 inch inseam in SNEAKERS. 🤦🏻‍♀️ Also, designers thinking a woman can be fat OR tall but NOT BOTH means my choices... aren't really choices. (This also explains my undying hatred of high-water designs. I spent most of my life being laughed at for too-short pants. If they don't cover my ankle bone, they AREN'T pants on me.)

[@FernBlackwood1995]

As a short waisted hourglass (33” bust, 24” waist, 34” hip), I didn’t realize I’d been doing some of these tricks and techniques subconsciously for years. Kinda fascinating. Edit: you definitely didn’t cut your bangs too short, that’s a very youthful and sweet, lovely look for you. I think you look very nice.

[@helenahsson1697]

I've spent years saving clothes that I really like how they fit me and/or that I like to wear. Last year I started ripping up the seams of them and make them into patterns.

[@bridgetgidget72]

I’ve saved my favorite ‘fast fashion’ items for the exact same purpose. I just haven’t haven’t taken them out of the tote to make the patterns yet - thanks for the inspiration!

[@Ct331429]

I have never left a KZbin comment until today. This was so incredibly helpful as a fellow short-waisted, pear-shaped, flamboyant gamine who is on a journey to sew her own wardrobe. Thank you so much for this information!

[@gingeroplinger1725]

I am also a short waisted pear shape, and agree with your style tips. I’m also short overall (5’3”) which makes it challenging to find off the rack clothes that fit me properly. I’ve started sewing clothes for myself recently and being able to customize a pattern to actually fit my shape makes a world of difference in how my clothes fit and how I feel about myself when I’m wearing them!

[@aprildriesslein5034]

I feel like short waisted is one of the hardest bodies to style with off the rack clothes, especially if you are also short and/or curvy (I'm both.) Sewing my own clothes has been kind of a revelation. 😄

[@gingeroplinger1725]

@@aprildriesslein5034 yes I am curvy as well and sewing my clothes has been such an eye opener, with the amount of pattern altering I have to do to get a good fit it makes me realize why nothing off the rack really fits right!

[@kitdubhran2968]

Shortwaisted, hourglass (omg so hard to style wtf) and also sway back, so I have the S-curve shape, big in back and forward in front/bust. Whyyyyy😢😢😢

[@therewillbecatswithgwenhwyfar]

I am 5 foot one inch and there is literally one finger, if that, between my last rib and my iliac crest of my hip. Solidarity with the other hobbits!

[@misss7777]

As a long waisted person with short legs it is quite interesting to see the other side of the spectrum. I am something between an hourglass and a pear shape, and also have a big chest and a big butt so the long waist acutally is the biggest difference between me and her but from her short and my long waist alone we look completely different. My biggest problem about buying clothes for my long waist always was, that finding jumpsuits or swimsuits that fit me is literally impossible. Shortening pants is a piece of cake. It 's annoying that I have to do it but my long legged mom and sister always complain that lengthening pants compared to that simply isn't possible. Well, the same goes for swimsuits and rompers. Last year I bought my first ever swimsuit as an adult in a "long" size from lands end. Last time I could wear a swimsuit was in first grade. Also made my first ever jumpsuit myself three years ago. Never had one my whole life before that. My other problem is my big butt. I hve to buy EU size 44 (US size 12) pants so my butt and my hips fit into them though I acutally am a size M overall.

[@mimipipi120]

I don't think you're a pear shaped, you have broad shoulders and I'd say closer to rectangle shape. It's so exciting to see someone get clothes matching their body type, makes one feel so much more comfortable! Well done, keep it up! :D

[@helenehelene1321]

She looks balanced I agree.

[@alyonamikhajlova8318]

I think she might be apple...

[@capybara8477]

@@alyonamikhajlova8318 she's not an apple, apples look way different

[@naolucillerandom5280]

She might have gone with pure measurements. I look wider at the shoulders but I'm mathematically a pear.

[@dancingsmiler]

We have the same shapes! I'm also 5'4" and pear-shaped with a short torso. I've always found my build beautiful--I think it's just a perspective thing. I try to emphasize my positive features instead of thinking about hiding other ones. I love how you've intellectually analyzed fashion into shapes and lines that work for you and make you feel beautiful and comfortable. I'm excited to see you put these new pieces together!

[@evamccann4337]

As a fellow short/high waisted person, this whole thing is absurdly helpful. I love these videos.

[@GhislaineBeauce]

The whole Kibbe body types, colour seasons and Kitchener essences systems of styling are fascinating, and at some point I'll need to read into it for myself, and take my measurements too... I'll be more confident about picking fabrics and making my own clothes once I do.

[@labradorite8256]

I was introduced to the colour season 25 years ago and it make shopping much more efficient. If it's not my colour I will walk right by. Some years I don't buy much, others I buy a lot. A certain shade of my green has been around the last few years, but it's one of my only ones in fashion and my husband thinks it's my favourite colour 🤣.

[@andreaarias2085]

You may enjoy "Aly Art" a specialist in the Kibbe body shape system. Also a fashion and influencer named Merriam.

[@auntiezann5146]

I appreciate how strategic you are in problem solving. And, I agree, writing things down always solidifies it for me. I’ve been having great fun sewing items for my wardrobe, but it’s been largely “what do I feel like making” or more likely “what fabric do I feel like playing with”, and I think planning is something I should do. Thank you for your excellent ideas!😊

[@mausemadchenmi7144]

And having a framework of goal items written down still leaves the chance of what of my preferred items can this be turned into?

[@marymonica]

Game changer. I’m tallish with a short waist + lengthy legs, and always end up looking broad across my hips because my shoulders are slightly narrow. I’ve tried so many silhouettes to great frustration. Your formula for hemlines/ necklines/ sleeve styles seems just about foolproof!

[@maggierobertson2962]

Me too. On paper I'm supposedly soft gamine but I'm tall with a short torso too, meaning pretty long arms and legs. I think my score pulls gamine due to my facial features rather than body type. But now that I've locked down a pant/short block l, I'm moving into a bodice block. Personally I have figured out that I need wide straps (more like a sleeveless top than a tank top) to balance out my very wide hips.

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

As a short, short waisted person I hear you. Body proportions make such a huge difference. I have found the channel Petite Dressing really helpful too, partially because as a short person it makes a huge difference. Chi is also 5'4". A couple of suggestions - you might want to think about making some dickies as a way to add some extra neckline height which may allow you some extra options with some of the lower necklines and extra warmth when needed. Also taking a leaf out of Rachel Maksey's book and layer skirts and dresses as a way to get extra options. Thank you putting this into a video. I think its one of the reasons I am not sewing anything despite making plans. I haven't quite worked out what is working for me. Putting weight on hasn't helped, but that happens when you hit middle age and your hormone levels change 🙄

[@asilverfoxintasmania9940]

oh and if you know how to crochet, look at continental knitting, I have found it works a bit better for me because as a crocheter I already hold my work and wool in the same hand, english knitting has it in the right hand while holding the work in the left and it never felt correct to me, switching over to continental has helped me pick it up and keep my tension a bit more consistent and it not feel weird.

[@asterismos5451]

I'd love a video of mending/reworking previous projects to work with this, too, that could be really fun/educational

[@MariahPattie]

Yes I really should do that

[@whistlehammock]

seconded, love those types of videos

[@PiskeyFaeri]

Oh heck yes, I need this. As an apple shape with a short waist, I'm yoinking your thought patterns.

[@Lobstrique]

man, this video is even more essential then the last one with tips on transitioning to a self-made wardrobe. i hate it when I sew clothes that I don't wear. and I struggle with defining what suits me and what represents my personality thank you for new ideas!!@

[@indiabilly]

I have a completely different body shape- flamboyant natural with a short waist, I kept trying things and never understood why they didn’t work, now I get it I don’t make mistakes anymore which massively helps me with budget and confidence xx

[@samsontheladle]

Same!! She's got the opposite problems to me, but I think I will be taking her lead and trying to sort this out myself. I have need for some basics myself especially with the change of seasons right now, and I'd like to make them myself if I can.

[@quotelation]

That's my body shape, too! I still struggle with getting the proportions right and combining what I like and find comfortable with what looks best, but videos like this do help me think about it more effectively.

[@juliaw9835]

This is SO interesting! When you mentioned being instinctually drawn to Clara Oswald's wardrobe, I thought of how I always disliked it despite not being able to name anything "wrong" with it (ie, it's objectively a good wardrobe that fits the actor and character well, but I dislike it). It only now just clicked that because I'm long-waisted, and have a very different body proportion to Jenna Coleman, I must have subconsciously intuited these clothes would simply not look good on me! Thank you for explaining it, I adore finding out the logic guiding our gut reactions.

[@shannonagain89]

It's also my goal that one day I will have an entirely handmade wardrobe. 😊 I started with crochet and knitting and have started learning how to sew. I love how you analyzed the components and proportions of outfits to figure out why things do/don't work for you. I'm also short (5'1!) but I am very much an exaggerated hourglass with a lot of curve on a tiny frame. Many styles that I would adore on someone else would lose my waist and make me feel like a big stumpy square on legs! Lol. Thank you for sharing your very organized and practical approach. 💕

[@Gandellion]

This is great, I’ll give this a go! Also I’ve gotta say your story of reconnecting and marrying Caleb honestly gave me so much joy

[@gumfoil]

I also used to be frustrated by my short waist. Your videos are one of the things that helped me accept it, and they helped me learn how to draft and adjust patterns to fit me better. Thanks!

[@argusfleibeit1165]

Learning about my short waist eventually made me give up worrying about my belly sticking out-- all those organs have to go somewhere! My Slovak grandmother used to talk about looking like a "ba-RILL", that is, a barrel. Well, now I do, just as she did. Oh-well...

[@MariahPattie]

It made me understand why corsets never gave me waist reduction. It wasn’t until I saw a skeleton and poked around at my ribs and pelvis and was like “oh, so most people have space in between here.”

[@liav4102]

@@argusfleibeit1165 short waisted and pregnant, I look like I’m having twins 😂 my organs and baby have literally no where to go but straight out

[@argusfleibeit1165]

@@liav4102 Yeah, that'll do it for sure, lol.

[@EowynDriscoll]

Although I'm heavier than you, our body types are SUPER similar. Thanks for putting all of this into words, it's a huge help for what I've long suspected and the changes I've intuitively made to things I make :)

[@andreaandrea6716]

(22:11) NO ONE (that I've ever met) knows any of this information you have given us. (UNLESS learnt in a very specific course...). But this is information that ought to be taught as VERY BASIC stuff, in high school (or Jr. High), along with Body Appreciation. Women have such a torturous time growing up because we are made to feel as though OUR specific body type (and it doesn't seem to matter WHICH shape we are) is wrong. I landed in Paris at the age of 24 and right away knew that I hadn't a clue about how to dress or what suited me. It was a long and interesting journey! I LOVE this video. It's hugely informative. Thank you!!!

[@rayrerej9630]

I was so relieved to see the actual fabrics you chose, I kept thinking "noooo she might be a summer or winter" at your paper doll color choices. The ones you actually chose are great! I wouldn't worry about color analysis for now tbh, the colors you have are good, definitely close to whatever your palette is, and it's better to use the fabric you have imho.

[@prophetessoftroy]

I have almost exactly the opposite body proportions to yours, and this still very much helped clarify all the various bits I’ve thought about and gathered over the years. Like you, I have pages and pages and pages of notes, diagrams, and charts, and now I feel like I have a snowball’s chance of organizing them all. Thank you! I’m looking forward to following along with your projects!

[@bronwynstirkul3549]

Me too, inverted triangle but with round tummy too! Not sure how to deal with it.

[@camille_la_chenille]

I am only now starting to make my own clothes but I instinctively followed some advices when thrift-shopping. I am short waisted with a large bust and short legs, and am overall small of stature. I like long skirts with high necklines because it makes me look older (I am so baby-faced, everyone thinks I am at least two to three years younger than my actual age...) and I am also more comfortable when covering as much skin as I can. I am still working out the proportions things and experimenting but I am getting more confident in what will look good on me without trying it first.

[@Speklez]

I'm holding back tears because I finally found someone that has my body type almost exactly! Your breakdown on your body type and finding styles is exactly the inspiration that I need to do the same. Definitely writing things down and maybe doing sketches will help. THANK YOU💞

[@ImaDoGToo]

Perfect. I have had NO IDEA why i hate my clothes on me. This is so valuable thank yoU!!!

[@marynimocks6791]

I SO admire your thoughtful attention to the details of good design! Food for thought. Thanks!

[@shironerisilk]

I just love your videos so much (especially these analytical ones), you speak with such clarity and focus, it's a treat to watch! Every time I watch your videos it makes me want to take up sewing :)

[@AnnikaVictoria24]

Short torso club! This helped me make a lot of sense of why I go for the cuts I do too! I have tended to gravitate towards high neck+ short hem or plunging necklines + long hems as well this video was super interesting!!! Spending forever making things then *hating* them on yourself is the worst, so figuring out what might look the best before you commit needle to fabric is a great idea. I tend to just copy the types and colours of the clothes I already gravitate towards and wear all the time in order to be happy with my handmade wardrobe, because I also get super confused when I try and mash together all the (often conflicting) body types/season colours info together haha. Thrift shopping rather than fast fashion purchasing has helped me in this respect too, as I'm not just trying whatever is on trend that season. Granted it's taken me about a decade and a half of this to figure out what looks the best on me, so that is not the fastest way of developing a personal style 😜

[@voneyeva]

I was glued to the screen. I love watching people take clothing seriously. It's NOT frivolous.

[@leah_goldberg]

Such a well thought through analysis! The way you've edited in all the photos really helps to understand and follow along. Thanks for all the time and effort you've put into sharing what you've learned.

[@mindyzuckerman936]

This is so interesting to watch as a soft dramatic with a long torso. I fell down this same Kibbe rabbit hole a couple years ago and I'm still struggling a bit. Thank you for sharing your journey and progress!

[@emilyw2962]

I feel like Fit and Flare is comfortable for so many body types for a reason. I have a long waste, but a very straight body. Fit and flare gives the illusion I actually have "shape". I think that no matter your body shape, the fit and flare helps give you whatever your "lacking". No waist? It gives the illusion of a waist. No hips? The fullness of the skirt gives the illusion of hips. No bust? The narrow waist and flare gives the illusion of a bust. And if you are well adorned in some areas, it only accentuates those areas. So no matter what, fit and flare looks good.

[@megansmith2637]

How is this the most brilliant video on the internet??? The whole discussion of longer skirts needing more open shoulders/neckline unlocked a whole new world of understand in my brain. Holy cow.

[@HalfBoyHalfGod]

Honestly your everyday wardrobe sewing videos are some of my favorites, so I'd definitely welcome more videos on your journey in the future!

[@crystilmurch5659]

I love how methodical you have been with this process. I also love that you have allowed yourself enough room for creativity in and amongst the practical. Looking forward to seeing the progress. :) Your birds are awesome. 👍

[@solavita306]

You know, this sparks the desire in me for pattern makers to include on the envelope the body types they would look well on. They don't need to go into Kibbe since most people won't know what that is, but saying that something is flattering for a short waist or an apple shaped body would be really useful.

[@woodenkat8971]

I think vogue does a basic one on their patterns for pear, hourglass and straight. They dont indicate about short or long waists tho.

[@crochet_kat]

I really love your videos so just wanted to say thank you. They're always informative and interesting. I'm in the short waist club too so this was particularly great to watch. Loving the bird updates too!

[@habituscraeftig]

I really appreciate you walking us through the details of your system for figuring this out while remaining specific. It's so easy for a video like this to slip into telling us what we have to do to, and everyone's body and relationship with and awareness of their body is so different. I feel like we got the example of your rigorous approach without falling into a closed template. Even your 8 steps is more a structural framework for figuring out your own guidelines than a set of guidelines, in and of themselves.

[@corasgrove3474]

I have a very different body type - rectangle and long waisted, but it was really useful watching you go through the steps.

[@HarunoHime07]

I have been patiently waiting for your next video and it’s such a treat to watch while relaxing or working

[@BonnyHerald]

Oh my goodness! Brilliant video, you've explained so many of the issues of have a short body/short waist. This makes so much sense! Thank you 🧡

[@harfir7169]

I love the balancing of neckline and hemline. I feelt like I've seen/read it all, but that was news to me and it makes sense when I reflect on my own wardrobe.

[@caitlinsmith5075]

Clara is amazing fashion inspiration! She doesn't fit my body type super well, but I wish she did because that's how I *want* to look. So it's always a challenge for me taking that inspiration and tweaking it to fit me. Was great to follow your process!

[@carolinaazevedo2088]

I love that you are back! can't wait to see you develop your wardrobe and hope you can show more of the homestead

[@susiecunningham7799]

This is the best thing ever! You’ve inspired me to do the same!! Amazing work !! Please keep us updated on your full progress

[@gabrielle.j]

I’m a soft gamine in the process of designing and creating my own wardrobe and wow!! This is such an inspiration!! We are definitely on the same wavelength with obsessively planning, and a lot of my designs even resemble yours!! Kinda crazy!! Good luck, I’m excited to see the rest of your journey 😊

[@pearlygirl88]

It took me two years of sewing to realize not only am I an extreme hourglass but I have a longer torso. I couldn’t figure out why all of the commercial patterns were too short in the waist. Now I know.

[@AlexaFaie]

You can lend me some of the torso length if you want! I'm also an extreme hourglass, but have a short enough waist that there's only just an inch gap between my ribs and my pelvis. I finally figured out recently why it was that I was able to keep the same clothes size for so long despite gaining so many inches to my bust & it was because my torso is short enough that the extra length of "regular" length stuff got used by my boobs so looked like it was the correct length. Unfortunately I am now at a size for coats where they start adding extra length to help accommodate the larger measurements, except I don't need the extra length at all! If you transfer some length, maybe we could both fit regular patterns? Lol

[@pearlygirl88]

@@AlexaFaie man, that sure would make my life easier! Lol.

[@rosered3919]

Me too. A great tip I heard aeons ago, wear bikinis not one peice swim wear. Long torso issues.

[@eloiseb5600]

So clever and well thought out! So excited to hear how you feel about the first few of these items

[@itsmekoalaure]

I love how you're structuring your content and I'm very excited to see what you do next! I also went through a phase of dressing like Clara and I didn't realise why but when you explained it, it all made sense! Thank you for your wonderful content ❤️

[@emmadavey3892]

I was taught pear-shapes had longer torsos and shorter legs. But then I’m part of the Trinny and Susannah generation 😂 they had twelve body types and a couple of TV series. Endlessly fascinating subject especially for sewers. I love kibbe type it’s really helped me save money! That and sorting out a colour palette so everything goes together.

[@brooke_reiverrose2949]

Their body types were the only system that works for me. I’m a vase

[@rosered3919]

They worked for me also. Hourglass

[@sadegodfrey4738]

Honestly, this is such a great video! I'm also a gamine (though a soft gamine, like Jenna Coleman) with a short torso and this is the biggest reason on why I started sewing - everything off the rack looks like a tent if you're short waisted with a big bust, regardless of how skinny you are. You've put it perfectly into words how everything is a matter of proportion: I never realized how much I followed into a high neckline + short hem or lower neckline + longer hem pattern until you've said it. It just makes sense!

[@samanthagirly3350]

Also! Thank you for making this video. I’ve been trying to figure out what my “style” is and seeing your journey helps SO much with knowing where to start.

[@Reggiespaghettismom]

So happy to have found this video! I’m also sewing my own garments and focusing on aligning with my body type (also soft gamine!) and my winter coloring so I’m most likely to wear it. Thanks for doing the deep dive for me!

[@l.griffin2324]

Your "Easter Keeper" bird looks just like the guinea fowl my childhood neighbor used to keep. They roamed free between our properties, sometimes leaving their beautiful feathers in the grass. Congratulations on your soon-to-be collection of spotted feathers!

[@missmeakat]

I'd love to see videos on modifying previous projects to suit you better, if that's on the cards!

[@Silrielmavi]

I want to like this video again, so I'll just comment I love the thought you've put into this and I'm excited to see what comes of it. It's given me something to think about for me!

[@twfare4]

Thank you so much for making this video. This is exactly what I needed.

[@auditoryeden]

This video is exactly what I needed to see right now. I'm also starting to transition my wardrobe away from bought to wholly handmade, and trying to plan rather than allow projects to merely whisper to me like the one ring. I recently remade a dress that didn't turn out quite right the first time. I know I love the second one but wasn't sure why. Now, I can put words to it and more importantly know why the first pattern didn't work for me, and how to alter similar ones in the future so I want to wear them once they're finished.

[@katerrinah5442]

Petition for a bird stories section in each video because they're all so beautiful 😍😍😍 Also good work on your list - I love how you broke everything down!

[@veronicahuffines7707]

The chicken updates is how I can watch your videos at lunch with my children! I enjoy them too, always up for more chicken/turkey/ginny foul updates.

[@inekekrul6340]

Amazing video! I don't have the same body type as you, but i need that deep dive to make sense of what works and what doesn't. Thank you!

[@nomerz]

This is one of the most helpful videos I've ever seen. You've inspired me to actually start sewing my own clothes. Wish me luck!

[@taylorlouise3254]

This video is music to my ears!! I also have been struggling for a while to crack the proportion/style lines issue I have been having! And I agree - the stakes are so much higher when you’ve made it yourself. Thank you again as always! This and your previous video of a similar vein have changed my life!! Also. As a researcher - I just love the way you approach things as it’s exactly the same as me hehe I need a flowchart, a spreadsheet, a mathematical formula and an infographic for good measure. Can’t wait to see your future projects!

[@weezyb.]

Thanks for sharing your research “requirements”. I’m the same way. I know of no one who thinks like this. Yay! I’m not an oddball 😅

[@marygersetich8709]

My experience with starting peppers from seed is that they can take a long time to sprout. I start them about 3 weeks before starting tomatoes. Back to the main content--great video. I appreciate how much thought and research went into it.

[@jeannedeperthuis8690]

This is amazing, thank you so much!!! even with a different body type, the top/bottom visual mass ratio was an amazing "discovery", like finaly finding something hidden in plain sight ! I saved this video and will probably watch it from time to time

[@padminimayur4049]

This is outstanding work in analyzing wardrobe and silhouette. Well done!

[@abigaelmacritchie1365]

This was so interesting! I've always known I had longer legs for my size, but somehow it didn't compute as having also a shorter torso 😂 It often bugs me how with long legs and a small waist, a lot of classic cuts look kind of matronly on me, even though I don't have a particularly big bust. I think it may be because I have a lot of the issues you were having! And what's more, my mum has them too and she always blamed it on ageing and having an increase in her bust. I'll have to rewatch this video straight away, I feel like you've cracked the code 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@bhavens9149]

I think its funny you don't 3/4 sleeves are practical, I'm completely opposite, long sleeves get in my way and get wet etc when doing chores (feeding chickens etc) but hate short sleeves on my arms with a passion. 3/4 dont get wet or other things on them, but dont show my arms which makes me more comfortable. anyway just think its interesting how we all dislike things that we aren't ourselves comfortable with. great idea to really study your body type for clothing.

[@itsafroggytime]

i'm the same way! long sleeves getting in paint/dye/glue/etc., and short sleeves being too cold, but too warm for cardigans. i'm also short, which adds some length to my torso and arms. the reasons for taste in sleeve length are always interesting to me haha

[@chloeldr]

I love how analytical you are! It feels soooooo good to see someone who has so many different point of references and takes time to reflect! (Also obsessed with Clara's outfits ahah!)

[@whitekl]

Incredible video!! Thanks so much, can’t wait to go down my own rabbit hole

[@diannemh2250]

Love the chicken update - totally cracked me up because right at the start when the rooster crowed, my dog ( who was asleep in front of the TV, he loves watching TV!) heard the chooks & the rooster, so he jumped up & looked at the TV - which was showing a picture of a penguin! My dog was sooo confused! Then ran over to me - watching on my iPad - and sat there doing some serious “ noddies” wondering where all the chickens are!!!

[@ima.ekenes]

This was so helpful! My shape is very similar! I want to make more of my own wardrobe, but one thing that stops me is fluctuation of waist size. I either need two sets of clothes, or make pieces that are very adjustable. If you plan to wear the clothes for many years (especially if you want to have kids one day), that’s something to consider too! Would love to see your ideas on this, since they have so many solutions in historical clothes. 😊

[@MariahPattie]

Thinking that through. My weight has been consistent for years, then started changing when me and Caleb got together. We like cooking for each other 🤷‍♀️. And kids aren’t even in the picture yet.

[@ima.ekenes]

😂That’s so cute 🥰

[@1603holly]

Modified empire waists are the best for fluctuating waists on a short torso; I have been able to wear them through almost everything...

[@ima.ekenes]

@@1603holly Thanks!

[@rosered3919]

Elastic waistlines , wrap skirts.

[@mahaliathompson3639]

It’s so eye opening to see you in form fitting clothes, we have such similar body measurements I kinda assumed we looked the same but we don’t, it’s so eye opening and makes so much sense why patterns and clothes need to be made to fit each individual person. Such a great video, and so helpful for us. Thank you!

[@Marsontheearth]

Thank you for putting into a video all the thoughts I’ve had about sewing and giving me a constructive direction to take them!! I adore your videos. Thank you for this!! -a short waisted gal

[@P0nyl0ve]

Hmm I'm always a little on the fence about these things because I just think "wear what you want to wear/like instead of what you 'should wear' to look thin or fashionable". I love autumn colors even though my 'color season' is actually summer. However I'm a big fan of your systematic approach so I'll give this video a shot

[@MariahPattie]

For me it’s more about understanding *why* I don’t end up liking the things I thought I’d like.

[@P0nyl0ve]

Okay yeah I've watched the video now and you've convinced me... I still think these rules can make people feel like they "have" to wear certain clothes, but when used in this way the can certainly be a useful tool! And again, I mostly watch your videos to learn from your careful calculated way to approach sewing, so thanks!

[@saram3156]

These "what to wear for your shape" guidelines are probably restricting and maybe pointless if you're comfortable in a wide variety of clothes, but if you're coming at it from the opposite end where you hate everything you own lol, they can be a helpful shortcut to finding something--anything!--that feels good. Specifically, sewing/shopping is frustrating enough when you know you're short-waisted, never mind when you don't! :)

[@heart12361]

You're actually an hourglass, not a pear shape.

[@OlichkaNesterova]

I find all of your videos sooooooo relaxing!!!!!! 🔥

[@verity4013]

omg I thought I was the only one in the world who analysed their wardrobe as much as me!!! Thank you for posting, sooooo good! 🥰

[@kaitlincrane_]

This was so absolutely fascinating and inspiring. I’m quite tall, so we have different proportions, but this really helped inspire me!! Such a cool way to break this topic down.

[@eexpandingawayy]

man this is so awesome! I love fashion and seeing your thought process is so cool! Very helpful for me to better understand my own silhouette!

[@olivergraves9381]

Im so glad this video came across my recommended, because this is exactly what I've been trying (and failing) to figure out! It definitely helps we have similar body types, though I'm a guy and rarely wear skirts or dresses. I'm definitely going to start doing some more research with this as a baseline, thank you!

[@Mandita_Bandita]

I love this, so happy I found you! I too am a short waisted gamine. I'm slowly learning how to sew so I can make clothes that actually suit me someday.