How to Measure Clothing & Fashion Accessories
Size Specs   Education   Conversion Charts   Pattern Makers   Fitting Room


Measurements of a garment are very important to both the clothing industry and consumers.  It is the industries job to make sure clothing is produced with accurate measurements and it is important for people shopping for clothing to select the proper sizes that fit their unique body shape and size.

The clothing industry will typically use Tech Packs (technical specification packets or spec sheets) to communicate measurements between the design team to the apparel factory.

Tech packs are essentially a blue print for any manufacturer to price out, create and re-create the product desired. The pattern maker or designer will create a grouping of documents that describe all of the details for the fabric, trims, and stitching information needed to make the garment consistently and at the quality the designer ascertains.  A portion of the tech pack will contain detailed information about the measurements of the clothes and accessories that need to be produced.  It is extremely important that the manufacture follows the proper method for "how to measure".

It is important to note that How to Measure instructions may vary from one company to the next.  Unfortunately, the industry does not have one set of rules that are used by all companies.  If you work in the industry and are passing measurements along to a factory or consumer, it is critical that you also provide information on how you take the measurements.

How to Measure  

1)
How to take body measurements for clothing.

2)
How to take clothing measurements

We will be expanding on this section in the near future..

When it comes to designing clothes, getting the right measurements is essential. Taking the time to take accurate body measurements for clothing design can make a big difference in the fit, look, and feel of the finished garment. Whether you’re designing for yourself, a friend, or a client, here are some tips to make sure you get the measurements you need.

Before you start taking measurements, make sure you have the right tools. A measuring tape, fabric marker, and paper and pen (or a laptop) for recording results are all you need. Ask the person whose measurements you’re taking to wear form-fitting clothing, such as a tank top and leggings.

Obviously the point of measure will depend on the type of garment you are producing.  If you are making a shirt, you obviously don't need the leg measurements.  If you are make a pair of jeans, you don't need a chest measurement.  Below is simply reference of some key points of measure, but again it depends on the garment you are trying to fit.

Start with the bust, which is the distance around the fullest part of the chest. Wrap the measuring tape around the body, crossing it over the shoulder blades, and make sure it’s parallel to the floor. Record the measurement in inches or centimeters.

Next, measure the waist. Wrap the tape around the body at the narrowest part, usually just above the belly button. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight. Again, record the measurement.

Then, measure the hips. Wrap the tape around the fullest part of the hips and buttocks, making sure it’s parallel to the floor.

Next, measure the length from the shoulder to the waist. Place the tape at the top of the shoulder and bring it down to the waist. Make sure the tape is straight and parallel to the floor.

Finally, measure the length from the waist to the hem. Place the tape at the waist and bring it down to the desired hem length.

These measurements should give you enough information to create a well-fitting garment. Make sure to double-check your measurements and keep them in a safe place for future reference. Taking accurate body measurements for clothing design is an important part of the process, and it’s worth taking the time to get it right.

You may also want to learn about textile units of measure.