Hi, what do you mean, “then you can use the same method to increase the waist size?”

I am having much difficulty with choosing the correct pattern size for skirts and to get dresses to fit in the waist due to my waist measurement is larger than my hip measurement on the final pattern measurements. Example: my measurements = Waist – 35 hips – 40. I have to use a size 18 to fit my waist of a 35 but the hip measurement ends up being a 43. I must alter all garments for that extra fabric from hip to down. If I get a size 16 to fit my hips as you mention above, it will be way too tight in the waist. Can you assist me with this situation?

@T-Lee, have you tried this pattern before? I agree that it’s weird that they do not list a waist measurement, but with maxi dresses, they’re usually very flow-y past the bottom of the bust and the fit of the bust area may be the most crucial part. (If it’s fitted to the waistline area, you might want to contact the pattern company and see if this is an accidental omission.) I don’t know what pattern you selected but a size 16 might be doable without alterations just based on the style of the dress and with built in design ease. You can always do a basted muslin just to see if you do need to do alterations and it’ll should give you a better idea before using more expensive fabric.