Adapting a custom design for tall, petite and plus sizes

Give lengths as numbers, not photo positions

A kameez that reaches the model’s knee may reach mid-calf on a woman of average height, and the ankle on someone petite. So never rely on “the length in the photo”. Measure from the top of your shoulder down to where you want the hem to sit, and give that number in centimetres or inches. Do the same for sleeves and slits. Our guide to kameez length for your height helps you choose, and the size guide shows how to measure.

Tall: more length, more fabric

Tall women often find ready-made lengths too short. In a custom design, think about:

• Proportion: longer kameez and floor-length dresses suit a tall frame, and so do longer slits that keep the hem moving.
• Borders: a border placed at the hem stays at the hem, but a longer kameez may need it positioned with care if the fabric is short.
• Sleeves: full sleeves need your real arm length; ready-made sleeves are often too short on tall women.
• Fabric: a long, flared design can use a lot of fabric. If you send your own, we confirm there is enough before you post it.

Petite: scale everything down a little

For petite women, the aim is to keep the design’s character while reducing its scale:

• Detail size: a deep yoke, a very wide border or a large motif can swamp a petite frame. Ask for a narrower border or a smaller yoke.
• Length: knee to just below the knee often balances a petite figure better than a long kameez, but there is no rule; give the number you like.
• Slits: shorter slits stop the kameez looking split into two halves.
• Volume: keep one area full and the rest neat, for example a gently A-line kameez over straight trousers.

Plus size: comfort, ease and line

For plus-size and curvy figures, the most important design decision is usually ease: how much room is built in at the bust, waist, hips and upper arm. Too little and the outfit pulls; too much and it can look shapeless. Our guide to ease explains how much room different styles need.

Shapes such as the A-line kameez skim the body and move well. Vertical details, such as a front placket, long panels or a border running down the front, draw the eye along the length of the body. A V-neck or a modest sweetheart can be more comfortable than a high, close neckline. None of these are rules, just useful options to ask about.

Tell us about your proportions

Measurements tell us your size; a few words tell us your proportions. It helps to mention things like a long body and shorter legs, broad shoulders, a full bust, or arms you would rather cover. If you have a kameez whose proportions you love, you can also choose to send it for measuring; we confirm how to send it first.

Upload your design and notes on the custom quote form, and see Send Your Design for the full process. Ordering from Houston or elsewhere in America? The USA custom design page and Houston page explain how ordering works from there.