4. Trousers: Waist Placement Changes Everything

The rise of your trousers affects your entire silhouette. High-rise shapes elongate the legs and define the waist. Mid-rise offers comfort and versatility. Low-rise has a more relaxed feel. Whatever your preference, the waistband should sit flat, not gape, squeeze, or fold. The best trousers make you feel supported without restricting movement.

5. Length Matters: Hemlines Create Balance

For trousers, the hem should hit a spot that flatters your shoe and height. Wide-leg pants look best when they just skim the floor. Cropped trousers should hit a few centimeters above the ankle bone. For dresses and skirts, the most flattering lengths usually fall at the knee, mid-calf, or ankle — depending on the silhouette you prefer.

6. Denim: Structure With a Touch of Ease

Jeans should fit snugly at the waist and hips but still allow you to sit comfortably. The waistband shouldn’t dig in or slide down. Look for denim with a little stretch but not so much that they lose shape after one wear. The perfect pair holds its structure and supports your natural shape without feeling rigid.

7. Oversized vs. Too Big: Know the Difference

Oversized pieces are designed to be roomy with intention — dropped shoulders, longer hems, and relaxed silhouettes. “Too big,” however, looks unbalanced and uncontrolled. The key difference is structure. Oversized clothing still has a shape. If it feels shapeless or sloppy, it’s likely just too big.

8. The Tailoring Rule: Small Adjustments, Big Impact

Most bodies don’t match standard sizing perfectly. A simple hem, a nipped waist, or a sleeve adjustment can transform an item. Tailoring isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. Small tweaks can make affordable pieces look high-end and help your wardrobe fit like it was made for you.