The adjustable fit: and the art of fitting in. We fit clothes to our bodies and not our bodies to the clothes

Abstract

Fit. Such a short, uncontroversial, ordinary word. Used in words like outfit, fitness, misfit, fitting, and phrases like 'fitting in'. It means so much but at the same time, no one really knows what the word 'fit' means or what it should represent. We project our own understanding of the word onto its meaning. A word that we psychologically and physically experience in our everyday lives. A word's meaning that can impact a mood and set the tone for the day. My idea is to incorporate modifiable and size adjustable features in clothing that promote the idea of garments becoming individually fitted to the body, and that allow the body flow with its natural course of changing, evolving and allowing whatever temporary state it currently idles at. By employing the practice of removing, adding, or relocating seams the focus on certain areas on the body is dissuaded. This makes a size adjustment less obvious while allowing the garment to look proportional on various bodies. I also utilize excess fabric often disguised in folds to inconspicuously add more room for fluctuations – this consequentially offers an opportunity to create a repositioning moment permitting a size adjustable feature. With this design approach, I encourage the assemblage of capsule wardrobe items to counteract impulsive consumer behavior often relating to discomfort. Simultaneously, I instill awareness concerning the unrealistic standard ready-to-wear garments try to convey to consumers while empowering a concept of body neutrality - where it is okay to just be the way you are. As well as to shift away from resorting to the idea of body modification to sustain society-oriented expectations rather than having a garment modify to fit our bodies instead. That rather than abiding a constant longing and striving for a different body state, perfectly normal weight fluctuations, transitions such as pregnancy and post-partum, menstrual cycles, age progression, or even just a larger meal than usual - are perfectly alright.