How to take your measurements
If you visit the shop or book a hotel fitting, we measure you ourselves. If you’re ordering from abroad, this guide explains the measurements a tailor usually asks for and how to take them.
We’ll confirm on WhatsApp exactly which measurements we need for your garments. Start there, and use this page as a reference.
Before you start
- TapeA soft tailor’s tape measure, in centimetres or inches. Not a metal one.
- HelperSomeone else to hold the tape. Measuring your own back and shoulders is nearly impossible.
- ClothingA thin, fitted shirt or T-shirt, and the trousers and shoes you’d normally wear.
- PostureStand straight and relaxed, feet together, arms by your sides. Breathe normally.
Jackets, shirts and blouses
Keep the tape snug but not tight: you should be able to slide a finger underneath.
Neck
Around the base of the neck, where a shirt collar sits, with one finger under the tape.
Chest / bust
Around the fullest part of the chest, under the arms, keeping the tape level across the back.
Waist
Around the natural waist, usually just above the navel. For women’s garments, the narrowest point.
Hips / seat
Around the fullest part of the hips and seat, feet together.
Shoulder width
Across the back, from the edge of one shoulder bone to the other.
Sleeve length
From the shoulder edge, over a slightly bent elbow, to the wrist bone.
Bicep and wrist
Around the fullest part of the upper arm, and around the wrist.
Back length
From the base of the collar at the back of the neck down to where you want the jacket to end.
Trousers, skirts and dresses
Wear the shoes you’ll wear with the garment when you measure lengths.
Trouser waist
Where you actually wear your trousers, which may be lower than your natural waist.
Outseam
Down the outside of the leg, from the trouser waist to where you want the hem.
Inseam
Down the inside of the leg, from the crotch to the hem.
Thigh
Around the fullest part of the upper thigh.
Skirt or dress length
From the waist (or the shoulder, for a dress) down to where you want the hem.
Getting them right
Measure twice
If the two numbers differ, measure a third time.
Measure the body, not the garment
Send your body measurements, not the size you’d like the garment to be, unless we ask for something else.
Say how you like things to fit
Close to the body or relaxed. Numbers alone don’t tell us.
Mention anything unusual
One shoulder lower than the other, a sporty build, a preference for a higher waist. It all helps.
Ask if you’re unsure
Message us before guessing. It’s quicker to ask than to alter.
Ordering from abroad?
Measurements are one part of a remote order. You’ll also choose cloth from photographs we send you, and confirm the style before anything is made. How remote orders work.
