How to Measure Yourself for Clothes at Home

Ordering clothes online is easier when you know your real measurements. A soft tape measure and five minutes are enough, and you can compare the numbers with any brand's size chart.

What you need

Use a flexible tape measure, not a metal one. Wear thin clothes or underwear, stand straight and relax your shoulders. Keep the tape snug but not tight, and ask someone to help if you can.

The key measurements

• Chest or bust: around the fullest part, under the arms and across the shoulder blades.
• Waist: around your natural waist, the narrowest part of your torso, usually just above the navel.
• Hips: around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
• Inseam: from the crotch down to where you want the hem to end.
• Shoulder width: from one shoulder edge to the other across the back.
• Sleeve length: from the shoulder edge to the wrist with your arm slightly bent.

Use a shirt or pair of pants that already fits

Lay a favorite garment flat and measure it: chest width across, length from collar to hem, and inseam. Compare these numbers with the product's size chart. This often works better than body measurements alone, because it matches the fit you already like.

Read the size chart carefully

Check whether the chart lists body measurements or garment measurements, and whether it uses inches or centimeters. If you fall between two sizes, read the customer reviews. They often say whether an item runs small or large.

Keep your numbers

Save your measurements in a note on your phone. You can reuse them every time you shop, and update them when your size changes.