What is the purpose of adding ease to a pattern, and how much ease is generally recommended for different types of garments?

The purpose of adding ease to a pattern is to provide comfort, movement, and style to the finished garment. Ease is the difference between the body measurements and the garment measurements.

There are two main types of ease:

1. Wearing Ease (Functional Ease):This ensures that the garment allows for natural body movement (breathing, bending, sitting, etc.).It is essential in all garments, even fitted ones.
2. Design Ease (Style Ease):This is added for aesthetic and stylistic purposes, depending on the desired fit (e.g., oversized, draped, or structured looks).Design ease varies significantly based on fashion trends and the specific style of the garment.

General Recommended Ease for Different Garments:

Garment Type Wearing Ease (Approx.) Design Ease (Varies by Style)

Fitted Dresses 2–5 cm (1"–2") 0–5 cm (0"–2")

Semi-Fitted Dresses 5–10 cm (2"–4") 5–10 cm (2"–4")

Loose Dresses 10–20 cm (4"–8") 10–20 cm (4"–8")

Blouses/Shirts 5–8 cm (2"–3") 5–15 cm (2"–6")

Jackets/Coats (Fitted) 7–10 cm (3"–4") 5–10 cm (2"–4")

Jackets/Coats (Loose) 10–30 cm (4"–12") 10–30 cm (4"–12")

Pants (Fitted) 2–4 cm (1"–1.5") 0–4 cm (0"–1.5")

Pants (Relaxed) 4–10 cm (1.5"–4") 4–10 cm (1.5"–4")

Skirts (Fitted) 2–5 cm (1"–2") 0–5 cm (0"–2")

Skirts (Flared/Loose) 5–15 cm (2"–6") 5–15 cm (2"–6")

Other Considerations:

• Fabric Type: Knits generally require less ease (or even negative ease) compared to woven fabrics.
• Garment Function: Activewear, stretch-fit clothing, and lingerie may have little to no ease or negative ease.
• Layering: Outerwear needs more ease to allow garments to be worn underneath.