Page:A complete course in dressmaking, (Vol. 1, Introduction) (IA completecoursein01cono).pdf/31

 The collar, too, ought never to be more than medium in size. Collars that border on the cape variety seem to add many inches in width.

It is possible to add trimming to a coat that will give long lines. Rows of parallel machine stitching, lengthwise at the center back or sides will give a pleasing effect.

When you choose a suit, pay particular attention to the length of the jacket. The bolero and waistline jacket are not for you. Hunt out the coat that is finger tip length or longer. A simple box coat with perhaps an inverted pleat at the center back to give added length, and the narrowest kind of a belt, you will find answers the requirements for a youthful look and a becoming line.

All you have to do is to compare in your mind’s eye this type of coat with one that is fitted in body and flaring below the waistline to be convinced of the wisdom of straight lines. I want to add just a few more suggestions. The first is about the fit of your clothes.

''Don’t skimp your clothes. A tight dress never makes a person look smaller.'' In fact, tightness is apt to accentuate the size of the bust, the bigness of the arms and the width of the thighs. Try a little fullness, it will do wonders in the way of hiding large hips.

There is the question, too, of the length of your skirts. If you wear your skirts a little