How to Measure Yourself for Clothes: A Practical Sizing Guide for Online Shopping

Why size labels let you down

A medium from one brand can be a large from another, because there is no universal sizing standard and each brand cuts for its own customer. The only reliable way to shop online is to compare your real body measurements, or the measurements of a garment that already fits you, with the product’s size chart.

What you need

A soft tape measure, a mirror or a helper and fitted clothing or underwear. Stand naturally and breathe normally rather than pulling the tape tight. Write the numbers down so you can use them again.

The measurements that matter

For tops: chest (around the fullest part), shoulder width (across the back from shoulder point to shoulder point), sleeve length (shoulder to wrist with a slightly bent arm) and torso length. For trousers: waist (at the natural waistline or where you wear the trousers), hip (fullest part), inseam (crotch to ankle) and rise. For shoes: foot length and width.

• •Chest: tape level under the arms and across the shoulder blades.
• •Waist: at the narrowest point or where trousers sit.
• •Hip: around the fullest part of the seat.
• •Inseam: inside leg from crotch to ankle bone.

Measure a garment that fits you

Often the easiest and most accurate method is to lay your best-fitting garment flat and measure it. Take pit-to-pit across the chest and double it, measure the length from the top of the shoulder to the hem, and measure the waist of trousers across the top and double it. Compare these garment measurements directly with the product’s size chart, which should list garment dimensions.

Measuring your feet

Stand on a sheet of paper with your heel against a wall and mark the longest toe. Measure the distance and do the same for both feet, since they often differ. Measure in the evening when feet are slightly larger. Add a small allowance, usually about 1 cm or a thumb’s width, and match the result with the brand’s foot-length chart rather than the printed size.

Reading a size chart

Check whether the chart lists body measurements or garment measurements, because they differ. If you fall between sizes, think about fabric: stretchy fabrics allow you to size down, while rigid fabrics such as oxford cloth or raw denim usually call for the larger size. Also consider how you like to wear the item, closely fitted or relaxed.

Before you order

Read the fit description, check the return policy and keep tags attached until you are sure of the size. If you are unsure, send us a message and we will help you choose.