Before you start
- A soft (flexible) tape measure
- A mirror, or someone to help
- A notebook or notes app
Method 1 Get ready
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Step 1: Use a soft tape
Use a flexible tailor’s tape measure. If you don’t have one, use a piece of string and measure it against a ruler.
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Step 2: Wear thin clothing
Measure over underwear or thin, close-fitting clothes. For bust, wear the bra you’ll usually wear.
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Step 3: Stand naturally
Stand straight, relaxed, with feet together. Don’t hold your breath or pull your stomach in.
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Step 4: Keep the tape level
The tape should be parallel to the floor and snug but not tight; you should be able to fit one finger underneath.
Method 2 Take your measurements
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Step 1: Bust or chest
Measure around the fullest part of your bust or chest, under your arms and across your shoulder blades.
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Step 2: Waist
Measure around your natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the belly button. Bend to one side: the crease that forms is your natural waist.
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Step 3: Hips
Stand with feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and bottom.
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Step 4: Inseam
Measure from the top of the inner thigh (crotch) down to the ankle bone, or measure the inside leg seam of trousers that fit you well.
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Step 5: Neck
Measure around the base of your neck where a shirt collar sits, with one finger under the tape.
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Step 6: Sleeve
For shirts, measure from the centre back of your neck, over the shoulder and down to the wrist with your arm slightly bent. Some brands measure from the shoulder seam instead; check their chart.
Method 3 Choose your size
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Step 1: Use each brand’s size chart
Sizes vary a lot between brands and countries, so always compare your measurements with the specific brand’s chart rather than relying on the size you usually buy.
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Step 2: Choose the measurement that matters
For dresses and tops, the bust usually matters most; for trousers and skirts, waist and hips. If you’re between sizes, pick the larger size for fitted styles and consider tailoring.
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Step 3: Read the fit notes
Look for words like “slim fit”, “relaxed”, “runs small” or the model’s height and size. Customer reviews often tell you whether to size up or down.
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Step 4: Check the fabric
Stretchy fabrics (with elastane or spandex) are more forgiving; woven cotton, linen and denim without stretch fit more exactly.
Troubleshooting
My measurements are in different sizes
That’s normal. Choose by the most important measurement for the garment, and have the rest altered, or look for brands that suit your shape.
The tape keeps slipping
Use a mirror to check it’s level, or ask someone to help.
The chart is in inches and I measured in centimetres
1 inch = 2.54 cm. Divide centimetres by 2.54 to get inches.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I measure myself?
Every few months, or whenever your weight or shape changes, and always before ordering made-to-measure clothes.
Are vanity sizes real?
Yes, many brands make sizes more generous than the number suggests, which is why measurements are more reliable than size labels.
Should I measure in the morning or evening?
It doesn’t matter much for clothes, but be consistent. Feet are different; measure them later in the day.
Summary
With a soft tape, measure your bust or chest, natural waist and hips, plus inseam, neck and sleeve if needed, keeping the tape level and snug. Compare with each brand’s own size chart, read fit notes and reviews, and check the returns policy before buying online.
