The Science Behind Striped Clothing and Slimming Effects
When it comes to fashion, the choice of patterns can significantly influence how we perceive our own bodies. One particular debate that has persisted for decades is whether vertical or horizontal stripes are more flattering. According to recent research, the answer may not be as straightforward as many believe.
Scientists from National Yunlin University of Science and Technology have conducted a study that challenges the long-held belief that vertical stripes are the best option for looking slimmer. Instead, their findings suggest that horizontal stripes, particularly thin ones, can create a more slimming effect.
In the study, participants were shown images of a woman wearing various striped tops and asked to rate how slim she appeared. The results indicated that three key factors influenced the perception of slimness: stripe direction, type, and spacing. Among these, horizontal pencil stripes were found to be the most flattering.
This revelation aligns with what many fashion influencers have already observed. Social media platforms like TikTok have seen numerous posts celebrating the versatility of horizontal stripes. One user famously declared, “Horizontal stripes ARE IN on all bodies!!” while another joked, “Fashion rules in the bin!”
The debate over the slimming effects of striped clothing has been ongoing for many years. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, women’s fashion often aimed to create a long, lean silhouette. Vertical lines were associated with elegance and height, while horizontal stripes were thought to break up the body. However, this new study seeks to uncover whether such assumptions hold true.
Published in i–Perception, the researchers explained that fabric patterns can significantly affect the perceived appearance of clothing. They noted that two-dimensional lines applied to three-dimensional forms can produce different visual impressions and cause optical illusions.
The team involved 241 students who were shown photos of a woman wearing a variety of striped tops. Participants were asked to evaluate their perceptions of the model’s body image in each photo.
In the first round, the tops featured horizontal stripes, while the second round focused on vertical lines. The third round compared both types of stripes. Overall, the top with horizontal pencil stripes was deemed the most slimming. The researchers concluded that whether in a sleeved or sleeveless dress, horizontal pencil stripes can make the wearer appear slimmer.
However, the study also found that equidistant vertical stripes can create a similar slimming effect. This suggests that the idea that only horizontal stripes are flattering is not entirely accurate. The researchers emphasized that the slimming effect depends on multiple factors, including the direction, type, and spacing of the stripes.
This latest research comes at an interesting time, following a study by mathematicians from Northwestern University. Their analysis of 37,000 images of women’s clothing from 1869 to today revealed that fashion trends tend to repeat themselves every 20 years. Styles rise in popularity, fall out of favor, and then experience a revival roughly every two decades.
Professor Daniela Abras, co-author of the study, explained that the constant push to be different from the recent past causes styles to swing back and forth. She noted that the system inherently wants to oscillate, and this is evident in the data.
Horizontal Striped High Street Buys for Spring
For those looking to incorporate horizontal stripes into their wardrobe, there are several stylish options available:
- The White Company Jersey – £45 (Was £90)
- Kaffe Striped Top – £27.99 (Was £34.99)
- Jigsaw Stripe Dress – £79 (Was £99)
- M&S Striped Midi Dress – £26
- Jigsaw Stripe Jumper – £52 (Was £65)
- With Nothing Underneath Jumper – £140
These pieces offer a range of styles and price points, making it easy to find something that suits your personal taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a casual outfit or something more formal, horizontal stripes can add a touch of sophistication and style.
