The right fit can transform your entire look. Tends and brands tend to be fashion’s focus, but professionally tailored clothes can transform any piece into something sharp.
When you buy clothes off the rack, the shape of each piece is designed to fit the general population. You’re unique. To have something that fits you, it’s essential to work with a tailor to customise it to your shape, style, and lifestyle.
At LookSmart, we have experience with high-quality alterations that complement your unique body shape and size. We can also provide style advice and guidance.
In this article, we’re sharing tips on how to measure your clothes to get the perfect fit. Here’s what’s helpful to know.
What you’ll need to measure your size for clothes
You’ll need the right tools to get your correct measurements. Precision is key for measurements and small miscalculations can lead to uncomfortable clothes that feel too tight, too loose, or asymmetrical.
To start with, you’ll need a flexible measuring tape (often called a tailor’s measuring tape) and a stiff ruler to measure parts like your inseam and shoulders.
Tip: If you don’t have a tailor’s measuring tape, you can use a piece of string. Simply wrap it around what you’re trying to measure and hold it against a measuring stick.
Having a mirror is also helpful to make sure the tape is sitting correctly along your body. If you have someone you’d feel comfortable assisting you with your measuring, it can be especially helpful for measurements like your back.
If DIY measurements seem too difficult, don’t worry – we can help. Stop by your local LookSmart store and ask to speak with one of our expert tailors. They can get your measurements right the first time around (saving you hassle and – if you need to fix a mistaken size – money).
How to take body measurements for men’s clothing
Different men’s clothing requires different measurements. For general wear (t-shirts, sports shorts, etc.) taking rough estimates can help you find basic pieces online or in shops that are more likely to fit you well.
When it comes to intricate, detailed work (suits, dress shirts, or pants, for example), you’ll want a professional’s eye and steady hand to achieve the perfect fit for you.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through gathering the rough estimates. Here are the key body measurements for men’s clothing. Don’t forget to keep them in your wallet or phone so they’re handy the next time you go shopping.
How to measure your neck
Your neck measurement is key to a comfortable fit in shirts or jackets. It’s a measurement that is often overlooked, but you’ll be glad you know it.
You can measure your neck by wrapping your tailor’s measuring tape around the base of your neck, where a shirt collar would sit. Keep it snug but comfortable, allowing enough room for one finger.
How to measure shoulder width
Measuring shoulder width might be easier if you have a friend to help. Stand naturally and have someone measure from one shoulder to another, end to end, along your upper back.
If you have slightly rounded shoulders, use a tailor’s measuring tape and lay it flat to account for the natural curve of your back. This measurement is key for getting comfortable shirts and suit jackets that flatter your shape.
How to measure sleeve length
If you’ve ever worn a suit jacket with sleeves that swallow your hands or are uncomfortably short, you’ll know that sleeve length can make or break the look and comfort of your outfit.
To measure your sleeve length, start at the corner of your shoulders and run the tape measure down to your wrist. To get the most comfortable fit, have your arm slightly bent as it naturally would be in your jacket.
How to measure chest size
Your chest measurements are the foundation of a well-fitted shirt, blazer or jacket. If your shirt is too tight, you’ll pop a button; if it’s too loose, you’ll feel untidy.
To measure your chest size, stand naturally and wrap the tape around the largest part of your upper chest to just under your armpits. For a measurement that follows your shape, make sure you don’t have your arms up, as this can affect your measurement.
How to measure your waist
Your waist measurement is important for comfort and confidence. For tailored trousers, measure your waist from your belly button for a natural and stylish fit. If you are measuring for more casual pants or jeans, measure slightly lower where you naturally wear your waistband.
How to measure your seat or hip
Ill-fitting pants in the seat are a quick way to ruin a look. If it’s too tight, your movement will be restricted; if it’s too loose, it will sag and be unflattering.
To find your seat measurements, measure around the widest part of your hips while standing naturally. Make sure you aren’t squeezing or sucking in so you get a smooth and sleek measurement.
How to measure your inseam
Measuring your inseam can help you get a polished look, especially for suit or dress pants. There is some flexibility with this measurement, as you’ll want to determine if you are going for a no-break hem or a classic full break at the bottom of your pants.
Once you know this, you can measure your inseam by standing naturally while someone measures from your crotch to the bottom of your leg. For a classic full-break hem, you’ll want to measure to the point where your pants touch the top of your shoes and create a fold in the fabric.
Four tips for accurate measurements
Your measurements are as useful as your precision. A slight miscalculation can be the difference between a jacket that fits like a glove and one that doesn’t let you stretch your arms forward.
Here are four tips for making sure you are getting the most accurate measurements.
1. Take your time. The most common mistake people make while taking measurements is rushing the process. Take your time and double-check each measurement before writing them down.
2. Don’t measure too tightly. You should have the tape against your skin but not so tight that it changes your natural shape or causes you discomfort. To avoid this, make sure you can comfortably fit a finger under the tape without excess slack.
3. Keep the tape measure straight and level. Make sure your tape measure isn’t twisting at the back or sagging, or it will give you a higher measurement.
4. Measure in the same units. Stick to using inches or centimetres to avoid any sizing mix-ups. An easy mistake to make is reading the wrong side of the tape measure, so be mindful of this.
How tailoring enhances fit and style
Off-the-rack clothing is made to fit as many people as possible, not to look amazing on you. When you start getting your clothes tailored, you’ll have a bunch of pieces that complement your body and make you feel your best.
At the end of the day, it’s all about how your clothes make you feel. You want to be the best version of yourself with confidence and a style you feel is true to you. Whether it’s your once-in-a-blue-moon suit or your everyday pair of jeans, you deserve to love the clothes you wear.
People often think of tailoring as a special occasion thing, or if they need their pants hemmed. Professional tailors can do so much more. They can take an ordinary piece of clothing you’ve had in your closet for months and give it a new lease on life, transforming it into the favourite piece in your collection.
Why quality and fit are more important than brands
One year a brand is at the height of fashion, the next it’s forgotten, until a decade later, when it makes a comeback. Keeping up with the trends can be exhausting.
If you’ve ever noticed how good celebrities look, it’s not just because they wear expensive clothes, it’s that every single thing they wear is tailored.
Even affordable clothes with the right tailoring can look more luxurious and expensive than ill-fitting branded clothes.
At LookSmart, we value sustainability. Altering and repairing your existing clothes or recent purchases is better for the environment and more cost-effective than buying things you don’t love or wear, or falling into the buy-return-and-buy-some-more cycle.
Summing up
The secret to great style isn’t just about what you wear, it’s about how well it fits. Precise measurements are the foundation of a sharp, put-together look, and expert tailoring takes it to the next level.
Fashion trends come and go, but the perfect fit is timeless. Investing in quality, fit, and repairs means your wardrobe will stand the test of time, both in style and sustainability.
Want to make your clothes fit like they were made just for you? Visit LookSmart for expert tailoring and see how the right alterations can transform your wardrobe.
FAQs
How do I measure shoulder width?
To measure the width of your shoulders, you’ll need someone to help you. Start by standing naturally and have them run the measuring tape along your upper back from one shoulder edge to the other. You can also visit your local LookSmart store and we’ll be happy to measure your shoulder width for you.
How long does it take to alter clothing?
It depends on the garment and what needs to be done. Pinning and tucking different garments, especially, can vary in terms of how long it takes. For example, a three-piece suit will take much longer than hemming a pair of pants. Quality tailoring takes time, and to save yours, we recommend booking ahead.
You can also enquire about our Express Service. We’ll complete your alterations in 24 hours or less. (Additional charges apply.)
Where is the natural waist on a man?
Your natural waist is a centimetre above your belly button. Keep in mind that this is a great way of measuring suit pants, but for more casual pants or jeans, you should measure your waist where you naturally have your pants sitting.
What’s the difference between measuring yourself and getting tailored measurements?
Measuring yourself can help you get a general idea of your side. However, an expert tailor will account for posture, fabric drape, and adjustments for a precise, custom fit.
When choosing clothing, style is important. A somewhat elusive beast, it’s what gives you your distinct appearance, allowing you to express yourself when attached to a particular environment. Understand what styles, colours and patterns suit you and you’re well on your way to looking great.
But what about fit – is that as important?
You betcha it is.
The most important thing when choosing a shirt is to get the right fit. Gathered in all the right places, it will give you a smart look, a defined silhouette, and the confidence that comes from knowing you are impeccably dressed. The same goes for a great suit – one of the most important pieces in a man’s wardrobe. In fact, a good fit should apply to all clothing, from t-shirts and pants to belts, hats, shoes – just about anything you put on.
So how do you measure for all this?
How to measure your chest
Chest size is determined by measuring around the widest part of your torso, which is just below your arms and across your chest. The tape should be nice and snug, but not so tight that it constricts your breathing. It’s important that you keep the tape horizontal and that you breathe normally when measuring, or you could end up with a tighter fit than planned.
How to measure your neck
To determine your collar/neck size, measure around your neck, just above your collarbone, putting one finger between the tape and your neck. Alternatively you can add ¼ inch to your measurement before rounding up the size to the nearest ½ inch. As a guide, the average man has a collar/neck size of 16 inches.
Measuring Your Shoulders for the Perfect Fit
Measuring your shoulder width accurately is crucial for a perfectly fitting shirt or jacket. That said, a well-fitting piece should have the shoulder seams fall along your shoulders’ natural contours and prevent the fabric from pulling or falling along your shoulders.
Here’s how to measure your shoulder width, straight from our stylist tailors:
- Stand tall, but entirely relaxed: Ensure that you’re not hunching forward nor backwards and your shoulders are relaxed.
- Find your natural shoulder points: We mean those bony protrusions—you’ll use those points as references for measuring the perfect shoulder length.
- Measure across your back, shoulder point to shoulder point: Using a tailor’s measuring tape, measure across your back from one shoulder point to the next, making sure the tape passes over the base of your neck and your shoulder’s highest parts.
- Ensure the tape is level: When measuring, make sure the tape is parallel to the floor and isn’t sagging—otherwise it could make your piece too loose in the shoulders.
- Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.
Accurately measuring your shoulder width helps you pick off-the-rack garments that flatter your body shape, or help your tailor create a perfectly-fitting custom or altered piece.
How to measure your sleeve
Many off-the-shelf dress shirts and jackets come in different sleeve lengths, so it’s a good idea to measure for this too.
- Measure from the top of the centre back, at the nape of your neck to the end of your shoulder at the top of your arm.
- Bending the elbow, continue to measure from your shoulder to just before the wrist bone, or to where you would like your cuff to sit.
How to measure your torso length
Especially important when buying jackets, torso length determines where the bottom of your jacket will sit. Measure from the bottom of the collar to where you would like the base of your jacket to sit.
How to measure your waist
Measuring your waist is hugely important, unless you don’t mind risking an embarrassing moment revealing those unsightly love handles. To measure:
- Find the top of your hip bone and the bottom of your ribs. Breathe normally as you do and remove any other clothing or roll it out of the way.
- Place the tape measure midway between these points and wrap it around your waist. The tape should be snug, but not squeezing on your stomach.
- Inhale through your nose for a count of three to five. Exhale fully from your mouth, again for a count of three to five. Read the measurement on the tape once you have pushed all the air out of your stomach.
How to measure your inseam
- Stand barefoot on a hard floor, with your back to the wall. Move your feet approximately six inches apart and look straight ahead.
- Being careful not to include your man sack, draw a tape measure horizontally from the topmost position between your legs to the floor. If someone could assist you with this it would be hugely beneficial. If you’ve got no one around to help you could alternatively try measuring down the inside of your favourite pair of pants. Lay them flat on the floor and carefully measure the length from the crotch seam to the bottom of the leg.
How to measure your belt size
A good belt can sustain you through years of regular use so it pays to get the measurements right. Don’t just presume they will align with your waist measurements.
Measuring your belt size can be done in one of two ways. The first is to take a belt that fits well (either one you already own or one in a store) and spread it out flat. Make sure the belt is fully extended and doesn’t have any slack. Measure from the base of the buckle prong to the centre hole. If you don’t use the centre hole, measure from the base of the buckle prong to the hole you use most. Depending on your waist size, this number should be somewhere between 30 inches and 60 inches.
The second way involves threading a fabric measuring tape through the belt loops of a pair of good fitting pants. Pinch the two sides together where they meet in front and read the measurement. Add two inches to the measurement to get your belt size.
How to measure your hat size
Every man should have at least one good hat and whether it’s a baseball cap, a fedora, trilby or top hat, knowing your hat size gives you the best chance at it looking great.
To measure your hat size:
- Place a tape measure around your head about ⅛” above your ear, across the mid-forehead, completely circling your head.
- The tape should be firm and snug, but not too tight. If your measurement falls between sizes, round it up to the higher size.
How to measure your shoe size
The easiest way to measure your shoe size is to slip into a shoe store and use a Brannock Device. Measure both the length and width of your foot and measure them at the end of the day when your feet are at their biggest and most swollen.
Measuring for particular clothing
Knowing what measurements you’ll need when buying clothing will help you find the perfect fit every time. A good idea is to keep these measurements written down on a card in your wallet, so that you’ll have them handy every time you go shopping.
How to Measure for a Proper Coat Length
Nothing beats a perfectly fitting coat to layer over your work or casual clothes during the winter time or cold Sydney mornings. A tailor-fitted coat must complement your shape while providing comfort and style.
Here’s how to measure the proper coat length:
- Determine your desired coat length: Coat lengths may vary, from shorter mid-thigh lengths to longer options extending to the knee or even below. Consider your body proportions, height, and personal style.
- Measure from your shoulder: Have someone measure from the top of your shoulder blade to your desired coat length, be it mid-thigh, knee-level, or any length in between.
- Consider your body type: Shorter coats make a short person appear taller, and a longer coat can further elongate a taller body frame.
- Account for your heels: Should you plan to wear the coat along with heels, consider your heel height when measuring the coat length. You can even wear the heels while getting measured to take accurate lengths. Just make sure the coat is long enough to cover your legs.
Measuring the proper coat length boils down to a length that flatters your figure and perfectly completes your outfit.
When buying a jacket, measure:
- Chest (note that almost every tailor and manufacturer cuts the chest of a jacket 4” larger than your actual chest measurement, so a size 42 jacket would actually have a measurement of 46” yet it would still say 42)
- Waist (usually 2-4” smaller than your chest measurement)
- Shoulder width (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)
- Torso length
- Sleeve length
When buying a suit, measure:
- Chest
- Sleeve length (add two inches to your wrist measurement)
- Waist
- Inseam
- Your seat (the widest part of your hips)
When buying a dress shirt, measure:
- Collar/neck
- Sleeve length
- Shoulder width (from shoulder seam to shoulder seam)
- Chest
- Waist
- Torso length
- Bicep around
- Wrist around
When buying a casual shirt measure:
- Collar/neck
- Chest
- Sleeve length
- Waist
When buying pants measure:
- Waist
- Inseam
- Pants length
Reading size charts
Now that you have your measurements, you should be able to find out what size will typically fit you. Take a look at the Australian chart below, and check which column best corresponds with your measurements to identify the size you should order.
Clothing size conversion
Need to convert your size to another country’s sizes?
Use the converter below to help:
Once you’ve got all your measurements written down, you should be well on your way to choosing the right clothes for your desired look. If you get it need a little help taking the right measurements, simply visit LookSmart, your stylist tailor. Trusted by over one million customers every year, we’re your one stop shop for repairing, restyling, shortening, lengthening and remodelling.
Understanding Your Rise Measurement for Pants
Rise measurement is the distance between the crotch seam and the waistband of your pants. This is a pretty insignificant measurement to most people, but for stylist tailors, it determines the overall fit and comfort of your trousers.
- Low rise: The waistband sits below your natural waistline for low-rise pants. Pants with a low rise usually feels more relaxed, making it perfect for casual styles.
- Mid-rise: Mid-rise pants have their waistband sitting slightly above your natural waistline, offering more comfort and versatility
- High rise: High-rise pants typically sit above your natural waistline, close to the belly button. You can achieve a more flattering and slimming effect with high-waist pants, but these fits are often incorporated with women’s fashion.
Common factors to consider for the perfect rise measurement
- Your body shape: We recommend pants with a higher rise for men with a shorter torso as it helps elongate their silhouette. Taller men with longer torso may also find a lower rise more comfortable.
- Personal style and preference: Ultimately, it all boils down to your personal style and comfort. Mix and match different outfits and experiment with rises so you know what looks and feels best.
Importance of Measuring Your Thighs for Trousers
Thigh measurements are often overlooked by most untrained tailors. However, thigh circumference is crucial as it can make or break your style. A pair of trousers that are a little bit too tight around the thighs may hamper your walking and feel very uncomfortable and unflattering.
Here’s why measuring your thighs for trousers is important:
- Minimise discomfort: A well-fitting trouser should not restrict movement and cause discomfort, especially when sitting, walking, or bending. The perfect thigh measurement should give you enough room without feeling baggy wearing the piece.
- Achieve a flattering fit: Once you nail the perfect thigh measurement, the trouser should gently hug your thighs without being too tight and restricting. Aside from comfort, this should also create a more polished and streamlined silhouette, boosting your style’s overall appeal.
- Prevent fabric strain: A trouser that’s too tight may lead to premature wear and tear by putting unnecessary strain on the fabric. On the other hand, ensuring a proper fit (particularly around the thighs) helps preserve the trousers’ longevity and fabric quality.
When measuring your thigh, simply wrap a measuring tape around the widest part of your thigh, usually halfway down. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight or pulling your thigh. Do this properly, and you can guarantee a comfortable and stylish fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I measure myself accurately at home?
Prepare a soft measuring tape and a mirror to take an accurate measurement at home.
Start by standing straight and staying relaxed. Measure your chest by wrapping the tape around the fullest portion, keeping the tape parallel to the ground.
Then, measure around your natural waistline just above the belly button. For the hips, place the tape around the widest part of your hips. You will also need to take an inseam measurement from the crotch down to the bottom of your ankle.
For all these measurements, make sure the tape isn’t too tight or loose and that you have someone to help you out if possible.
What measurements are most important for buying a suit?
The following are the most important measurements when shopping for a new suit:
- Chest: This measurement includes around your chest, under your arms, and over the fullest part of your chest.
- Waist: Measure just about an inch above your belly button to get your waist measurement.
- Hip: Aside from the waist, measure around the fullest part of your hips, as this measurement could affect your comfort and silhouette when wearing a suit.
- Shoulders: Measure from one shoulder bone to the other one across your back, making sure the tape is parallel to the ground and is not sagging
- Sleeve: Measure your sleeves from the shoulder bone to your wrist, slightly bending your elbow.
- Outseam: Measure from the crotch seam to the desired pant length to get the outseam measurement.
- Rise: As discussed in the previous section, this is the measurement from the crotch seam to the top of your trouser waistband.
How do I measure for a perfect sleeve length?
Follow these recommended steps to accurately measure the perfect sleeve length:
- Stand tall and relax your arms at your sides.
Have a friend or someone measure from your shoulder bone down to your wrist, following the outside section of your arm. - Make sure the elbow is slightly bent to allow for a comfortable fit when bending your arms.
- Adjust the measurement should you want the sleeves to be a specific length, be it hitting your wrist bone or mid-forearm.
The right and accurate measurements should help you arrive with a perfectly tailor-fitted suit that makes you look polished, distinctive, and professional.
Can I adjust measurements for a looser or tighter fit?
Definitely! It all boils down to adding or deducting a tolerable length to key body parts, such as the chest, waist, or hips. It all depends on your desired fit, but what matters is that you get an extra room without appearing too baggy.
Consider adding about 1/2 to 1 inch for a looser fit, while subtracting 1/2 to 1 inch for a tighter fit. Note that for new and tailor-fitted suits, you should always consider fabric stretching and personal comfort to ensure the clothing doesn’t compromise style and mobility for a good fit.
What’s the best way to measure my waist for pants?
When measuring your waist for a pair of pants, make sure you stand up straight and relax your stomach. Next, identify your natural waistline which is slightly above or exactly at the belly button.
Wrap a measuring tape around your waist, following the location of the natural waistline, keeping it snug but not excessively tight. Then, exhale and take the waistline measurements—this should help you determine and adjust the measurements to accommodate for your desired fit.
Feel free to contact our expert tailors near you. At LookSmart, we provide the highest quality of craftsmanship and customer service. Our tailors should help you get accurate waist measurements as detailed as possible so you get the best sizes compatible with your body type and desired fit.
