Learn How to Take Clothing Measurements On Your Own

The secret to well-fitting clothes is simple; it’s your measurements. Sewing, tailoring, and even picking out the right pattern all require accurate measurements. Thankfully, there is no reason to guess. All you need is a measuring tape and to follow these steps to learn how to take clothing measurements on your own and get accurate results.

Before you Measure

Get an assistant. Even if you are super flexible, having another pair of eyes to make sure the measuring tape is even will be helpful in getting the right numbers. It’s important that you use a flexible measuring tape which can be found at a craft store.

Wear the right undergarments. Will you be wearing a bra with this garment? Put on your typical underclothes and wear form-fitting clothes like athletics wear for your fitting.

Ready to Measure

Stand in front of a mirror, use good posture, breathe normally, wrap the tape comfortably around your body, and don’t suck in! As tempting as it may be, all it will result in is a tight piece of clothing.  

These are the standard measurements you will need:

Neck – Measure around the base of your neck about the collarbone and round up to the nearest half inch.

Bust/Chest – Measure under the armpits around your back to the front at the fullest point. Your assistant can help make sure the line is straight and horizontal across your front and back. A helper can also ensure you get the best measurement here which is with your hands down at your sides.

Waist – Your waist is likely not where the top of your pants hit. Your natural waist is the smallest part of your torso, under your ribs, right around your belly button. Again, make sure the tape is straight and even.

Hips – Stand with your legs about 6 inches apart and measure around the widest point not the top of your hips.

Front Waist Length – Ladies may want two numbers from this measurement. Start with the tape at the side of your neck base and go down to your waist going over your bust, keeping the tape straight. Record a second measurement for bust depth at the peak.

Back Waist Length – You will likely need your friend to get these measurements along your back. The first is from the nape of your neck, down your spine, ending at your natural waist. Next, measure back width by running the measure from underarm to underarm horizontally across the back.

Shoulder – This is for your shoulder seam. Measure along the top of your shoulder from the base of your neck to the tip of your shoulder. If you have trouble with this one, take a collared shirt that fits you well and measure the length of it.

Arm & Sleeve – Measure around the fullest part of your upper arm. Then, for your sleeve length, bend your elbow slightly or even rest your hand on your hip and have your friend measure from the tip of your shoulder, down along and over your elbow all the way to your wrist line.

Inseam – Make sure you’re wearing the shoes you would normally wear with the pants in mind. Have someone else measure from your crotch to the back of the heel at the point where the pants should end.

With accurate measurements in hand, you can feel confident in your stitching. Oxford & Wells knows the quality and care you put into your finished pieces, which is why we are proud to provide a premium spray starch product. Use our fine care product as a tool while you work, and on your finished pieces that deserve special care. Shop online for our full selection of fine care.