Long versus Tall

Ever been shopping and wondered if there is a difference between Tall versus Long? Are they both created ‘equally fit’ for us?

Here’s what I’ve learned along the way.

Long – Typically (there are very few absolutes) when a garment says long it means that extra length was added to the base of the sleeves/shirt/skirt/pant. When clothing is made the designer uses a fit model to make the garment (typically a size 2 or 4). The item is then sized up or down to make a full range of sizes available for purchase. The fit model is typically an average height, 5’7” for women and around 5’9 for men. As a result the garment with ‘long’ on the label is made for the average body type with extra fabric added to the end of it.

Tall – Typically (again – no absolutes) means the garment was made with a tall fit model. What does that mean? It means that the darts are in the right place. The area for your knees on your pants are in the right place. The waist area for the shirt or dress is in the right place, etc.,. There’s nothing worse than having the dart for your breast a few inches above it (sitting in between your breast and neck) or the center of your pants being too low or too high (uncomfortable for men and women).

In conclusion, look for #tall labels.

TALL Blessings,
J. Enovy

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