Custom clothing starts with one thing—accurate body measurements. Knowing how to take body measurements helps you get the right fit, whether you’re sewing at home or designing for a brand. If you want your garments to look and feel right, you need to measure right.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to take measurements for clothes, how to use a tape measure correctly, and how to read a body measurements chart. We’ll explain how to measure the waist, hips, bust, and other areas, along with tips for both men and women. Let’s get into it.
Why Taking Body Measurements Is Important
Good fit depends on good data. Whether you’re tailoring a dress or building a digital pattern in PLM software, you need real, precise numbers.
Knowing what are the measurements that matter can help:
- Reduce returns and refits
- Improve customer satisfaction
- Build accurate sizing charts
- Design better patterns
For brands and tailors, taking body measurements is a step you cannot skip.
What You Need to Measure Properly
To take accurate body measurements, gather these tools:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Tape measure | The core tool for all measurements |
| Mirror | Helps check tape alignment |
| Notebook or app | Record every number |
| Helper (optional) | Useful for hard-to-reach spots |
| Fitted clothing | Helps get exact outlines of the body |
How to Take Body Measurements: Step-by-Step
Let’s go step by step. Wear fitted clothing or underwear. Stand tall and breathe normally. Always wrap the tape around the circumference measured and keep it parallel to the floor.
1. Bust Measurement
How to take it:
Wrap the tape over the fullest part of the bust. Keep the tape flat and level with the floor.
Tip: This is not your bra size. It’s the full chest circumference, measured over the bust.
2. Waist Measurement
How to take it:
Find your natural waistline — the narrowest part between ribs and hips, near the belly button.
Tip: Don’t suck in your stomach. You need a natural, relaxed position.
3. Hip Measurement
How to take it:
Measure the widest part of your hips and buttocks. This ensures pants and skirts fit properly.
Tip: Keep your feet together while measuring.
4. Shoulder Width
How to take it:
Measure straight across from shoulder tip to shoulder tip. This defines sleeve drop and shoulder seams.
5. Sleeve Length
How to take it:
Bend your arm slightly. Start from the shoulder point down to your wrist bone.
6. Inseam
How to take it:
Measure from the top of the inner thigh to the ankle. Use this for trousers, jeans, and jumpsuits.
7. Thigh Circumference
How to take it:
Wrap the tape around the widest part of the thigh. Keep the tape snug but not tight.
Female Body Size Measurement Guide
When making custom womenswear, these measurements matter most:
| Measurement Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bust | For tops, dresses, jackets |
| Waist | For shaping the garment |
| Hips | For skirts, pants, dresses |
| Shoulder | For necklines and sleeves |
| Sleeve Length | For blouses and jackets |
| Inseam | For pants and shorts |
| Full Length | For gowns and jumpsuits |
Body Measurements Chart for Women
Use this body measurements chart as a reference. But remember, these are only estimates. Always take your own measurements.
| Size | Bust (in) | Waist (in) | Hips (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| XS | 31–32 | 24–25 | 34–35 |
| S | 33–34 | 26–27 | 36–37 |
| M | 35–36 | 28–29 | 38–39 |
| L | 37–39 | 30–32 | 40–42 |
| XL | 40–42 | 33–35 | 43–45 |
Measurements for a Dress: What You’ll Need
A good-fitting dress needs more than bust, waist, and hips. Here’s a full list:
| Measurement | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Bust | Ensures chest fit |
| Waist | Shapes the torso |
| Hips | Balances skirt flare |
| Shoulder | Aligns bodice |
| Armhole | Prevents tight sleeves |
| Sleeve Length | For sleeve fit |
| Full Length | Controls final length |
These measurements shape how the dress moves and fits on the body.
What Are the Measurements for Men?
Creating menswear? Use this guide for accurate results:
| Measurement | How to Measure |
|---|---|
| Chest | Measured around the fullest part of chest |
| Waist | Measured at the natural waistline |
| Hips | Around the widest point of the seat |
| Neck | Around the base of the neck |
| Inseam | From crotch to ankle |
| Sleeve Length | From shoulder to wrist |
| Shoulder Width | Shoulder to shoulder |
How to Measure Body Measurements Alone
Sometimes you don’t have help. Here’s how to measure yourself:
- Use a full-length mirror
- Use clips to hold the tape when needed
- Take your time, and double-check
- Write down everything as you go
If you’re designing for someone else, ask them to stand straight and relaxed. Avoid tight or baggy clothes. Use a tape measure, not a ruler or string.
Helpful Tips for Accurate Body Measurements
- Always measure over fitted clothing or undergarments
- Never pull the tape too tight or leave it too loose
- Keep the tape parallel to the floor
- Re-measure every few months. Your body shape may change
- Use consistent units: inches in the United States, centimeters in many other countries
Common Body Measurement Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem |
|---|---|
| Sucking in stomach | Gives false waist measurements |
| Using rigid tape | Can’t wrap around body curves |
| Guessing sizes | Leads to poor garment fit |
| Wearing baggy clothes | Distorts measurements |
| Not checking mirror | Tape may be slanted |
Free Download: Printable Body Measurements Chart
Want to keep track of your sizes? Use this printable chart to log your measurements for future custom orders.
📥 Download Your Free Body Measurements Chart
Summary: Get the Fit Right Every Time
Taking body measurements is essential for creating well-fitted clothing. Whether you’re designing, tailoring, or sewing, these numbers guide your decisions. By knowing how to measure body measurements, using a tape measure, and following our tips, you’ll avoid poor fits and wasted time. Don’t guess—measure.
Create fashion that fits real people.
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