How to Take Your Measurements Like a Pro: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re like me, I imagine you’ve been in this situation before: you buy clothes online or in a store and when you get home you realize they don’t fit perfectly. And that’s simply because you didn’t measure correctly! In this article I share tips and advice for taking measurements like a pro and finding the perfect size whatever item of clothing you choose.

Finding the right equipment to take measurements

To get started it is essential to have the right equipment. A flexible tape measure is the ideal tool for accurately measuring your body. Choose one that doesn’t stretch and is long enough to measure all parts of your body without difficulty.

Be prepared to take measurements

Before you start taking measurements, make sure you follow a few key steps:

• Wear light, tight-fitting clothing : This will provide more accurate measurements, without interference from thick or ill-fitting clothing. Avoid wearing padded underwear or high-heeled shoes.
• Measure yourself in front of a mirror : This will help you see if you are positioning the tape measure correctly and maintaining an upright posture.
• Get help : If possible, ask someone to help you measure certain parts of your body, such as your back or hips. This will ensure more accurate and consistent measurements.

How to measure your chest circumference

Chest measurement is often a key factor in choosing the size of tops, dresses and jackets. Here’s how to do it:

1. Stand in front of the mirror with the tape measure handy.
2. Run the tape measure around your torso, under your armpits and across the fullest part of your chest. Make sure the tape measure remains horizontal and does not compress your chest.
3. Write down the measurement in centimeters without pulling the tape measure. Now you have your chest measurement!

Tip for even more precise measurement:

Remember to exhale before taking the measurement to avoid unnecessary tension in the chest.

How to measure your height

Whether it’s trousers, skirts or belts, knowing your size is essential. Follow these steps:

1. Find your natural waist by standing in front of the mirror and tilting your torso slightly to one side. The crease formed by this inclination is the point to be measured.
2. Pass the tape measure around your waist, taking care to keep it horizontal.
3. Note the measurement in centimeters without compressing the waist and without tightening the tape measure too much. Now you have your waistline!

Good to know:

The low rise (for trousers) is approximately 5cm below the natural waist. Don’t hesitate to take this measurement even if you are used to wearing this type of clothing.

How to measure your hip size

Indispensable for choosing trousers or skirt, here’s how to measure your hip size:

1. Get help with this measurement if possible, as it is more difficult to do on your own.
2. Determine the widest part of your hips by looking at your figure in the mirror. Typically, this is the level of the prominent bone on the side of the hips.
3. Pass the tape measure around your hips, making sure it remains horizontal and without over-tightening.
4. Note the measurement in centimeters. Now you know your hip size!

Measure other parts of your body

Depending on the clothes you want to buy, it may be useful to know other measurements:

• Leg length : Measure from the top of your inner thigh to your ankle or floor, whichever you prefer.
• Thigh circumference : Measure around the widest part of the thigh.
• Calf circumference : Measure around the widest part of the calf.
• Arm circumference : Measure the circumference of the widest part of your arm.
• Back length : Measure from the base of your neck to your waist or lower back, depending on your needs.

Tips for reading size charts

Now that you have taken your measurements, it is important to use them correctly to choose the right size. Keep these tips in mind:

• Always consult the specific size chart of the brand and the item you intend to purchase.
• Feel free to choose a slightly larger size if you are between sizes, especially for fitted clothing.
• Remember to take into account any particularities of the garment, such as a stretch fabric or a fitted cut.
• Please remember that measurements listed in size charts are generally body measurements and not the garment itself.

By following these tips you can now choose the perfect size for all your clothes and avoid many disappointments. Are you ready to revamp your wardrobe with confidence!

About the author

Clarisse Mercier

As a sewing lover, I manage the editorial side of ZoneCouture and share my discoveries and advice around this art here.