I have a slim waist.
'Vita' — VI-ta. 'Vita' means both life and waist — context is clear in a clothes shop.
Mention this when asking for advice on cuts that fit slim waists, or when explaining why off-the-rack clothing needs to be taken in. Italian tailors can alter most garments.
'Vita' means waist in this context (also means life). 'Sottile' means slim, slender, or thin. 'Ho la vita sottile' follows the Italian pattern of describing body characteristics with 'avere' + the body part + the adjective. Common in fitting conversations.
Posso farlo stringere in vita?
Can you take it in at the waist?
Asks for alteration.
Ho difficoltà a trovare pantaloni che vadano in vita.
I have difficulty finding trousers that fit at the waist.
Explains the challenge.
Questa vita è troppo larga.
This waist is too wide.
Specific fit problem on a garment.
Italian fashion has historically celebrated the 'clessidra' (hourglass) silhouette. Many Italian designers cut specifically for this shape. Alterations ('aggiustamenti') are commonly expected and offered even in mid-range shops.