Why your tights are too tight

Published Jan 03 2020 in bamboo, design, ethical, fashion, fit, fit expert, Made in Canada, plus size fit expert, Proper fit

Recently I broke my rule and purchased some footed tights that had been highly rated online. I was excited when they arrived, until I put them on. Even though they came in plus sizes and "were meant to fit women with hips and thighs", the cut of the pattern was all wrong. And I want to explain what I mean by that to you, so you can be informed.

Way back when I was in college for design, my instructor explained to us how crotches work from a clothing pattern point of view. I've never forgotten what he taught us. We discussed how cheaper brands save costs and fabric by cutting crotches very shallow (arrow on the right). Then he taught us to draft a pattern for tights (or pants) that actually fit by building the required room for the crotch into the pattern (arrow on the left). For any woman who has hips, thighs or a stomach - yes, all of us - it's my mission to explain to you what to look for in a truly comfortable fit at the crotch.

 A comparison of legging pattern showing the crotch

You know what I'm talking about: That nasty "squeeze your butt cheeks together" feeling because your tights are too tight. (Perhaps that's why they call them tights?)

It's really quite elementary; our bodies have width, but also depth. Turn sideways to a mirror and visually determine the distance between your belly button and your back. To fit properly, a pattern must incorporate this distance in the crotch. 

Diane Kennedy leggings and pants are cut to fit properly in the crotch

So next time you're buying pants or tights, pay close attention to the crotch for the correct fit. If you're buying footed tights or pantyhose, look for brands that add an extra panel down the back to give more room. 

Obviously, our leggings and pants have this room built in the crotch already, which is why we've always said: "They're cut to fit comfortably in the crotch and seat in every size" 

We hope this has been informative and will help you choose the right garments.

Wishing you all a much more comfortable crotch in the future ;)