Sewing tips for changing body shape

I have some nice woven fabrics that I have been holding off sewing for various reasons. Now I want to make garments that fit my body but I am aware it's more challenging to use woven than knits. In the last 3 years, I was up and down in 5 lbs range, but I see a trend to have thicker waist and back and that's probably not going backwards.

I found two posts that address sewing with weight changes:

https://blog.cashmerette.com/2017/01/what-to-sew-when-your-weight-fluctuates.html
She talked about: using knits, go for a wrap, add elastic and wider seam allowance.

https://thesewcialists.com/2020/04/24/sewing-tips-for-gaining-weight/
She preferred sewing for the body you are right now and gave good advice on pattern/style selection.

I have done most of the tips except large SA and changing the construction order accordingly.

I have several projects in mind that will still fit if I change less than 2 sizes: A cotton gauze dress with shirred panel,  bias linen dress with deep hem and a true wrap dress with large side seam SA.

I'd like to hear about your experience and tips and photos of the details would be even better!

Awesome topic.  Thanks for the links.

My waist can change over 4" in one hour due to health, so I've been having a lot of trouble with clothing.  

Skirts seem more accommodating than pants as I can make them a few sizes larger with an elastic back and drawstring front.  good for frequent adjustments and on skinny days, it looks like the skirt is gathered more.  

Natural waist measurement can change a lot simply before and after a meal. So for fitted bottoms, I usually position the waistband 2 inches below, just above hip bones, there the circumference is more constant. I also draft the WB with contour. By doing this, I don't need to use a belt, as the belt buckle tends to make holes in my t-shirt.

I made the A-line skirt out of mid weight linen on the bias. I went with faced waistband and a side invisible zipper because the fabric has lot of body. I would just fold over the top into elastics casing for light weight fabrics.

The skirt has a fix WB that sits above belly button but can ride up and down a bit when the girth changes. I also like the soft drape, and wrinkle free look thanks to the bias cut.

Only drawback is being pocket less. I haven't seen any RTW bias skirt or dress that has pockets though.

May, it's beautiful!

https://sewliberated.com

Have you seen the patterns here?  Many of them feature elastic in the waist or an easy fit, like the Hinterland Dress.

That link might not work, I'm still learning to copy/paste on a tablet.

Hi Ellen, yes, I see people making beautiful Hinterland dresses everywhere, and the company has many patterns for non stretch woven too. Thanks for recommending.

I am short at 5'2" with 40" hip circ, so I try to avoid extra bulk that makes my hip area look any wider. My style and aesthetic is more like this blogger:https://velosews.com