Transvestia

Mind you, all of the above are dress sizes. Under- garments have different size charts, also sweaters and coats are sized differently. Surely a large number of our readers will be able to find something in the above charts, with, say a bit of padding here and a lot there to get a proper fit, but one basic measurement must fit. For those of you who do not find your size and proportion here, don't be discouraged. There are many other de- signers in America and you can be pretty sure that some- where there exist the exact clothes you need. And you

don't have to go to the garment center of New York City to find it. America's name designers are represented in every big department store and mail order house and most village shops too. Your job is to find it.

LEARN YOUR FIGURE TYPE

Now that we have seen some of the basic size charts, the problem next is to find our "just what figure type I am?" In analyzing the figure, be as realistic as possible. For instance, in the torso, remember that the measure- ments around bust and chest do not give a complete pic- ture. A size 34 may have a full bust but a narrow back or a flat chest and a wide fulback. From our point of view, we must decide on how full the bust should be, to be proportional to waist and hips. While it is true for the past several years and this year, there is a great em- phasis on "bosom", yet this does not make the full pic- ture and it may change next season. Are you long waist- ed? The average waist length, measured from the nape of the neck to the natural waist is from 15-1/2 to 16=1/2" anything over 16-1/2" would be long and under 15-1/2" would be short waisted.

The diaphragm may be fleshy or, bony broad or nar- TOW. A prominent rib cage will create some problems of fit. A tapered waist is desirable in both male and female figures. Check for unneeded spots of fat around the diaphragm and shoulders.

For an idealized figure, there is no greater figure asset than small trim waistlines. Without it, you will find many styles and silhouettes, the princess line and the gathered skirt, for example eliminated from your