A Comprehensive Guide to Measuring Women's Suit

The Art of the Perfect Fit

 

Dressing with grace and style is an art, and like any form of art, it requires a certain level of expertise. The cornerstone of a well-curated wardrobe undoubtedly rests on achieving the perfect fit. Whether it's a chic blouse, an elegant suit, or comfortable trousers, the right fit can elevate your style and empower your confidence. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the techniques and nuances of measuring women's attire, including blouses, suits, and trousers, to help you attain that impeccable fit that enhances your unique allure and personal style.

 

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The Basics of Measuring

Before diving into specifics, you'll need some essential tools:

  • A soft measuring tape
  • A full-length mirror  (optional)
  • A helping hand for more accurate measurements (optional)

Tips:

Always measure your body, not your clothes. Garments can stretch or shrink over time, leading to incorrect measurements.

 

How to Measure a Women's Suit

 

Tools Needed:

  • Measuring tape
  • A well-fitting clothes (for reference)

 

Measuring for Women's Shirt or Blouse:

  1. Bust Measurement:

    • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
    • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, typically over the nipples.
    • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

  2. Waist Measurement:

    • Locate your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso.
    • Measure around your natural waistline.
    • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

  3. Hip Measurement:

    • Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks.
    • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

  4. Shoulder Width:

    • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

  5. Sleeve Length:

    • Extend one arm straight out to the side at shoulder height.
    • Measure from the edge of your shoulder (where you took the shoulder width measurement) to the desired sleeve length, typically at the wrist.

  6. Blouse Length:

    • Measure from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the desired hem length of the blouse.
    • For tucked blouses, you can measure to where you want the blouse to end when tucked into pants or a skirt.

  7. Neck Circumference (if applicable):

    • If the blouse has a closed neckline, measure around the base of your neck where the collar would sit.

  8. Cuff Circumference (if applicable):

    • If the blouse has cuffs, measure around your wrist or the desired cuff circumference.

  9. Elbow Length (if desired):

    • Start by bending your arm at a 90-degree angle, as if you were flexing your bicep.
    • Measure from the prominent bone on your shoulder (the acromion) to your elbow.
    • This measurement can help ensure that the sleeves have the desired length when your arms are bent.

     

    Measuring for Crop Top Blazers, Coat or Jacket:

    1. Bust Measurement:

      • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
      • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
      • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

    2. Waist Measurement:

      • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
      • Measure around your natural waistline.
      • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

    3. Shoulder Width:

      • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

    4. Sleeve Length:

      • Extend one arm straight out to the side at shoulder height.
      • Measure from the edge of your shoulder (where you took the shoulder width measurement) to the desired sleeve length, typically at the wrist.

    5. Blazer Length:

      • Decide on the desired length of the crop top blazer, which is typically shorter than a standard blazer.
      • Measure vertically from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the chosen hemline.

    6. Back Width (if applicable):

      • Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder to the other, typically at the shoulder blades.

    7. Cuff Circumference (if applicable):

      • If the crop top blazer has cuffs, measure around your wrist or the desired cuff circumference.

     Measuring for Regular Jacket, Coat, or Blazer:

    1. Bust Measurement:

      • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
      • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, typically over the nipples.
      • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

    2. Waist Measurement:

      • Locate your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso.
      • Measure around your natural waistline.
      • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

    3. Hip Measurement:

      • Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks.
      • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

    4. Shoulder Width:

      • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

    5. Sleeve Length:

      • Extend one arm straight out to the side at shoulder height.
      • Measure from the edge of your shoulder (where you took the shoulder width measurement) to the desired sleeve length, typically at the wrist.

    6. Jacket or Coat Length:

      • Measure from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the desired hem length of the jacket, coat, or blazer.
      • For blazers, the length can vary, but it's often around hip-length.

    7. Back Width (if applicable):

      • Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder to the other, typically at the shoulder blades.

    8. Cuff Circumference (if applicable):

      • If the jacket or blazer has cuffs, measure around your wrist or the desired cuff circumference.

    9. Elbow Length (if desired):

      • Start by bending your arm at a 90-degree angle, as if you were flexing your bicep.
      • Measure from the prominent bone on your shoulder (the acromion) to your elbow.
      • This measurement can help ensure that the sleeves have the desired length when your arms are bent.

       

      Measuring for Long Length Blazers, Coats, and Jackets:

      1. Bust Measurement:

        • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
        • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
        • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Hip Measurement:

        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      4. Shoulder Width:

        • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

      5. Sleeve Length:

        • Extend one arm straight out to the side at shoulder height.
        • Measure from the edge of your shoulder (where you took the shoulder width measurement) to the desired sleeve length, typically at the wrist.

      6. Blazer, Coat, or Jacket Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the long blazer, coat, or jacket.
        • Measure vertically from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the chosen hemline.
        • For long-length outerwear, this measurement often extends below the hips, thighs, or knees.

      7. Back Width (if applicable):

        • Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder to the other, typically at the shoulder blades.

      8. Cuff Circumference (if applicable):

        • If the blazer, coat, or jacket has cuffs, measure around your wrist or the desired cuff circumference.

       

      Measuring for Crop Top Vests:

      1. Bust Measurement:

        • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
        • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
        • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Vest Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the crop top vest.
        • Measure vertically from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the chosen hemline.
        • Crop top vests are typically shorter and may end at or above the waistline.

      4. Back Width:

        • Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder to the other, typically at the shoulder blades.

      5. Shoulder Width:

        • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

      6. Front Closure (if applicable):

        • If the crop top vest has a front closure (such as buttons or a zipper), measure the distance between the top of the front opening to the bottom of the front opening.

       

      Measuring for Regular Vest:

      1. Bust Measurement:

        • Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides.
        • Place the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust.
        • Ensure the tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Hip Measurement (if applicable):

        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      4. Back Width:

        • Measure across your upper back from the edge of one shoulder to the other, typically at the shoulder blades.

      5. Vest Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the vest.
        • Measure vertically from the highest point of your shoulder (usually near the base of your neck) to the chosen hemline.
        • Vests can vary in length, from cropped styles to longer options.

      6. Front Closure (if applicable):

        • Measure the distance between the top of the vest's front opening to the bottom of the front opening, as this can impact how the vest fits and drapes.

      7. Shoulder Width:

        • Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other across your upper back.

      Measuring for High-Waisted Trousers or Pants:

      1. Waist Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Locate your natural waist, which is usually the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline where you want the waistband of the trousers or pants to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Hip Measurement:

        • Measure around the widest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      3. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how high the pants will sit in the front.
        • Start at your natural waist and measure vertically down to the crotch seam.

      4. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your natural waist down to the crotch seam in the back.

      5. Inseam Length:

        • Measure from the crotch seam along the inside of your leg to the desired length of the pants.
        • This measurement determines how long the pants will be.

      6. Thigh Circumference (if applicable):

        • Measure around the fullest part of your thigh, typically a few inches below the crotch.

      7. Leg Opening (if applicable):

        • Measure around the hem of the pants where you want the leg opening to be.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      Measuring for Low-Waisted Pants or Trousers:

      1. Hip Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      2. Low Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your low waist, which is typically a few inches below your natural waistline.
        • Measure around your low waist where you want the waistband of the pants to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how low the pants will sit in the front.
        • Start at your low waist and measure vertically down to the crotch seam.

      4. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your low waist down to the crotch seam in the back.

      5. Inseam Length:

        • Measure from the crotch seam along the inside of your leg to the desired length of the pants.
        • This measurement determines how long the pants will be.

      6. Thigh Circumference (if applicable):

        • Measure around the fullest part of your thigh, typically a few inches below the crotch.

      7. Leg Opening (if applicable):

        • Measure around the hem of the pants where you want the leg opening to be.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      8. Front Pocket Placement (if applicable):

        • Measure the distance from the low waist to where you'd like the front pockets to be placed.

       

      Measuring for High-Waisted Skirt:

      1. Waist Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline where you want the waistband of the skirt to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Hip Measurement:

        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      3. Skirt Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the skirt. It can range from mini to midi to maxi.
        • Measure vertically from your natural waist down to the chosen hemline.

      4. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how high the skirt will sit in the front.
        • Start at your natural waist and measure vertically down to the desired front rise.

      5. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your natural waist down to the desired back rise in the back.

      6. Hip to Hem (if applicable):

        • Measure from the fullest part of your hips down to the desired hemline. This is especially useful for A-line or flared skirts.

       

      Measuring for Low-Waisted Skirt:

      1. Hip Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      2. Low Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your low waist, which is typically a few inches below your natural waistline.
        • Measure around your low waist where you want the waistband of the skirt to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Skirt Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the skirt. It can range from mini to midi to maxi.
        • Measure vertically from your low waist down to the chosen hemline.

      4. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how low the skirt will sit in the front.
        • Start at your low waist and measure vertically down to the desired front rise.

      5. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your low waist down to the desired back rise in the back.

      6. Hip to Hem (if applicable):

        • Measure from the fullest part of your hips down to the desired hemline. This is especially useful for A-line or flared skirts.

        

      Measuring for High-Waisted Shorts:

      1. Waist Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Locate your natural waist, which is typically the narrowest part of your torso.
        • Measure around your natural waistline where you want the waistband of the shorts to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      2. Hip Measurement:

        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      3. Shorts Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the shorts, whether they are high-rise hot pants, mid-thigh, or knee-length.
        • Measure vertically from your natural waist down to the chosen hemline.

      4. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how high the shorts will sit in the front.
        • Start at your natural waist and measure vertically down to the desired front rise.

      5. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your natural waist down to the desired back rise in the back.

      6. Hip to Hem (if applicable):

        • Measure from the fullest part of your hips down to the desired hemline. This is especially useful for shorts with a flared or wide-leg style.

       

      Measuring for Low-Waisted Shorts:

      1. Hip Measurement:

        • Stand with your feet together.
        • Measure around the fullest part of your hips and buttocks.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is parallel to the ground.

      2. Low Waist Measurement:

        • Locate your low waist, which is typically a few inches below your natural waistline.
        • Measure around your low waist where you want the waistband of the shorts to sit.
        • Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not tight.

      3. Shorts Length:

        • Decide on the desired length of the shorts, whether they are low-rise hip-huggers, mid-thigh, or knee-length.
        • Measure vertically from your low waist down to the chosen hemline.

      4. Front Rise (if applicable):

        • This measurement determines how low the shorts will sit in the front.
        • Start at your low waist and measure vertically down to the desired front rise.

      5. Back Rise (if applicable):

        • Similar to the front rise, measure from your low waist down to the desired back rise in the back.

      6. Hip to Hem (if applicable):

        • Measure from the fullest part of your hips down to the desired hemline. This is especially useful for shorts with a flared or wide-leg style.

       

      Additional Information

      To ensure we tailor the perfect fit for you, we kindly request you to provide us with some more specific details. Here are the options:

      Option 1: Upload Photos for Tailoring Insights

      Please upload four full-body photographs capturing different angles: front, back, left side, and right side. These photos will assist our tailor in understanding several key attributes:

      • Body Type: Rectangle, oval, triangle, inverted triangle, and trapezoid? 
      • Shoulder Type: Do you have square, normal, or slanted shoulders?
      • Abdomen: Is your abdomen plain, slightly convex, or more of a beer belly?

      Option 2: Written Details

      If you're uncomfortable uploading images, you can alternatively provide the above details in writing. This information is crucial for our tailor to make the necessary adjustments to your clothing.

       

      Tips:

      Choosing the right leg opening for your trousers can greatly impact your overall look, especially in relation to the shoes you plan to wear. Here's a brief guide on selecting the right leg opening for different types of shoes:

      1. Skinny Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: High heels, ankle boots, sandals, and sleek dress shoes.
        • Skinny leg openings create a streamlined look, and they work well with footwear that complements a slim silhouette.

      2. Straight Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: Most shoe types, including sneakers, loafers, flats, and ankle boots.
        • Straight leg openings offer versatility and can be paired with various shoes for a balanced appearance.

      3. Bootcut Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: Boots (hence the name), especially those with a wide shaft or cowboy boots.
        • Bootcut trousers have a wider leg opening, allowing them to fit over bulkier boots while maintaining a flattering look.

      4. Wide Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: Platform shoes, chunky heels, or shoes with substantial soles.
        • Wide leg openings create a dramatic and flowy style that pairs well with shoes that can handle the volume.

      5. Cropped Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: Ankle boots, high-top sneakers, and statement shoes.
        • Cropped trousers showcase your footwear and are perfect for drawing attention to stylish shoes.

      6. Flared Leg Opening:

        • Ideal for: Platform heels or wedges, as well as boots with a '70s-inspired look.
        • Flared trousers have a gradual widening towards the hem, making them suitable for shoes with some height and flair.

      When choosing the leg opening for your trousers, consider the occasion, your personal style, and the shoes you plan to wear. It's essential to strike a balance that not only complements your footwear but also aligns with your overall fashion preferences.

       

      For Accurate Measurements:

      1. Always use a flexible measuring tape.
      2. Measurements should be taken while wearing light or no clothing to get the most accurate numbers.
      3. For best results, have someone else do the measuring, as doing it yourself may result in less accurate measurements.
      4. Using the soft measuring tape we expect that you started from zero "0". 

       

      Significance of Each Measurement

      1. Collar: Ensures comfort and aesthetics for ties or bowties.
      2. Chest: Affects the drape and look of both shirts and suits.
      3. Sleeve Length: Impacts arm mobility and appearance inclduing the amount of cuff you are showing.
      4. Waist: Influences comfort level and the "tucked-in" look.

      Common Pitfalls

      1. Overcompensation: Adding too much extra room, causing clothes to look baggy.

      2. Too Tight: Measuring too tightly, resulting in an uncomfortable fit.

      Fine-Tuning for a Custom Fit

      Even with perfect measurements, you may need minor adjustments. That's where tailoring comes in. For instance, you might taper the waist of a shirt or adjust the break of a trouser.

      Achieving the perfect fit is both a science and an art. With careful measurements and an eye for detail, you can ensure that your wardrobe not only enhances your appearance but also elevates your comfort and confidence. So go ahead, master the art of the perfect fit and step out in style!