Guide to Taking Accurate Body Measurements

Taking accurate measurements is essential for creating flattering, well-fitted garments. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to properly take measurements for garment fitting:

Tools Needed

• Measuring tape (flexible, tailor’s tape)
• Notepad and pen or a measurement chart
• Mirror (full-length preferred)
• Assistant (optional, but very helpful)

General Tips

1. Wear tight-fitting clothing or underwear to get accurate measurements.
2. Stand straight but relaxed, without slouching or stretching.
3. Use a mirror or ask for help to ensure the measuring tape is level and properly positioned.
4. Take each measurement twice to ensure accuracy.

Key Measurements for Garment Fitting:

1. Bust/Chest:

• Measure around the fullest part of the bust/chest.
• Ensure that the tape is straight across the back.
• Breathe normally while taking this measurement.

2. Waist:

• Find the natural waistline, which is the narrowest part of the torso, usually above the belly button and below the ribcage.
• Wrap the tape around this area, keeping it snug but not tight.

3. Hips:

• Measure around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks.
• Keep the tape level around the body.

4. Shoulder Width:

• Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other, across the back.

5. Shoulder Length:

• Measure from the base of the neck to the edge of the shoulder.

6. Neck Circumference:

• Measure around the base of the neck, where the collar would sit.

7. Arm Length:

• Measure from the shoulder’s highest point, (where the shoulder meets the neck), down to the wrist, with the arm slightly bent.

8. Upper Arm/Bicep:

• Measure around the fullest part of the upper arm, with the muscle relaxed.

9. Wrist:

• Measure around the wrist bone.

10. Sleeve length:

• Measure from the shoulder seam (where the top of the arm meets the shoulder) to the wrist bone, with the arm slightly bent.

11. Inseam:

• Measure from the crotch along the inside of the leg down to the desired pant length (usually to the ankle or floor).

12. Outseam:

• Measure from the waistline to the desired pant length along the outside of the leg.

13. Thigh:

• Measure around the fullest part of the thigh, usually a few inches below the crotch.

14. Knee:

• Measure around the knee, with the leg straight but relaxed.

15. Calf:

• Measure around the fullest part of the calf.

16. Ankle:

• Measure around the ankle bone.

17. Rise:

• Measure from the front waistline through the crotch to the back waistline.

18. Crotch Depth:

• In a seated position, measure down in a straight line from the waistline to the sitting surface.

19. Torso/ Body Length:

• For the front torso length, measure from the highest point of the shoulder, over the bust, down to the waistline.
• For the back torso length, measure from the nape of the neck down to the waistline.

20. Skirt length:

• Measure from the waistline to the desired skirt length along the front of the leg.

Additional Tips:

1. Note any asymmetry in the body and take measurements for both sides if necessary.
2. Keep a record of all measurements for future reference and alterations.
3. Double-check key measurements (bust, waist, hips) before each new project as these can fluctuate quite often.

By following these instructions, you can ensure accurate measurements, which are the basis for better-fitting garments.