Models In Dress Catalogues

[atalanta]

I am baffled by a certain dress catalogue which regularly drops through my letterbox.
The clothes are lovely, but are far too large for me. I am a size 10, and once I bought from them a "small" Tshirt and a "small" jumper, both of which are vastly too big - probably at least a size 14. However, the models in the photographs all look like size 10, and they look very elegant in these clothes. So how do the catalogue people create this effect ? Do they actually make smaller-sized dresses just for the photographs, or do they gather and pinch in the dresses at the back until they look as if they fit ? or do they heavily retouch/airbrush the photos - assuming the models are actually as big as the customers ?

[EcclesCake]

Knowing which catalogue might help answer your question!

Also, did you look at their size chart to determine what they consider to be size small?

Catalogues will always offer the most flattering image they can and it may well involve a little sleight of hand in terms of fitting their garments to the model to give the best look.

[Prudie]

Is it one of those catalogues that specifically cater for the more ample woman? What dress size do they start at? I think the models in all catalogue photos tend to have the garments pinned and pinched to make them look good and also use models that are smaller than your average.

[heathfield]

Many catalogues use Photoshop or similar to alter the appearance of the models. Some stores are also known to install ever so curved mirrors where the reflected image makes you look slightly slimmer than you really are!

[Robinia]

They use lots of tricks to make clothes look better. I was surprised once when I was online shopping, as the model turned sideways the video clearly revealed a clip at the back making the garment seem a fitted shape from the front.
I'm not sure if they still do it but at one time some of them did use model sizes.

[atalanta]

Isn't it a bit ridiculous that "small" means at least a size 14 ? They do quote for a size "Extra small", but only a very few items of their underwear are offered in "Extra small" - which possibly means size 10. 10 is my size, but I am definitely not "extra small".
Their size charts were completely misleading when I bought from them. I have been wondering whether to send them a dictionary with the definition of the word "small" underlined.

[EcclesCake]

Have you looked at their size chart and measured yourself to confirm you are ordering a size that will fit you?