Spring Style Made Easy: Fit Tips for Dresses, Jackets & Knits

Ever fallen in love with something on the hanger… only to try it on and feel like it just isn’t you?

It happens to all of us. A dress looks beautiful, a jacket feels like the perfect piece, or a cosy knit catches your eye. But when you try it on, something just doesn’t feel quite right.

Often it’s not about the piece itself — it’s simply about the shape and how it works with your body, the way you want to wear it and what you want to wear with it.

Here are a few common situations we see in the shop, and some simple tweaks that can make all the difference.

1. When a dress 'clings' in certain areas

You spot a dress that looks gorgeous on the hanger, but when you try it on, it feels snug in some areas (perhaps around the tummy) and doesn’t fall quite the way you expected.

This is really common and comes down to fit and proportion, not your body. A dress like the White Stuff Kate Midi Dress with it's V-neck button-down, gathered waist and fuller skirt can make a big difference. The gathered waist creates a gentle, flattering shape over the tummy, while the fuller skirt adds movement and balance, and the V-neck naturally draws the eye downward — together creating a look that feels comfortable, effortless, and wearable every day.

Remember, you’re not trying to hide anything — it’s all about finding shapes that feel good, move with you, and let you feel like yourself in the clothes you love.

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2. When jackets don’t work with layers

A short, more fitted jacket can look fantastic styled simply. But when you try to add a knit or layer underneath, it can suddenly feel tight or bulky.

If you like to layer (especially in our Scottish weather), a slightly looser coat or longer jacket can make things much easier. It gives you room for knits, shirts, or lighter layers underneath without feeling restricted, while still looking polished.

We absolutely love the Masai Tynna Jacket — with its slight A-line shape and raglan sleeves, there’s plenty of room for a cosy sweater underneath, making it one of our flattering jackets for Spring.

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INIS team member, Sam, looking amazing in the Masai Tyne Jacket

Shop Sam's Look...

Masai Tynna Jacket

£109.00

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Masai Punna Trousers

£109.00

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Masai Bavessa Jersey Top

£39.00

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Birkenstock Arizona Birko-Flor Blue

£85.00

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3. When knitwear feels a bit shapeless

Knitwear should feel cosy and flattering, but sometimes it can feel a little boxy, bulky, or tricky to layer. Small details can make a big difference — helping create shape, balance, and a look that feels comfortable and confident.

• Shorter lengths: A slightly shorter knit can feel lighter and more balanced, avoiding a heavy or shapeless silhouette. Try the Part Two Anessa Cardigan with your favourite white tee for an effortless look.

• Defined hems or subtle shaping: Knits with ribbed hems or tapering create gentle shape without clinging. The best selling French Connection Lily Mozart Jumper illustrates this beautifully, with it's deep ribbed hem.

• Layering over a shirt: Layering a knit over a shirt adds structure and movement. Some pieces, like Yest Isen Knit Shirt with an attached shirt hem, do this for you — the shirt bottom peeks out to create a polished, flattering look without any extra bulk.

  
  

These little tweaks make a big difference in how a knit feels and moves, so you can enjoy cosy layers that are stylish, comfortable, and easy to wear every day.

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Often it’s not about changing your style — it’s just about finding the version of a piece that works best for you. Sometimes the smallest adjustment in shape can turn something you like into something you absolutely love wearing.

And if you ever feel unsure about fit, we’re always more than happy to help you find the piece that feels right for you.

Want to see these tips in action? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook for styling inspiration, real-life fit tweaks, and a closer look at our favourite pieces. And if you’re ready to refresh your wardrobe, our Spring Edit is full of dresses, jackets, and knits designed to feel comfortable, flattering, and effortless — all ready for you to try in store or online.

Claire & Team INIS x