How to Take Body Measurements (with Pictures)

Taking measurements

Measurements can be taken without assistance, but the task is easier when someone helps you. For greatest accuracy, measure over underwear. Take vertical measurements first, then those in the round. The tape should lie flat and not be too tight. Record all measurements on a chart. Select the pattern type and size with these measurements. Other measurements may be needed for garment fitting and alterations

Full bust: bring the tape measure across the widest part of the back, under the arms, and across the full bustline.

High bust (not shown):

 bring the tape measure across the widest part of the back, under the arms, and above the full bustline.

Waist: 

Place the tape measure horizontally and flat in the natural indentation of your waist.

Hip: 

Place the tape measure horizontally and flat across the fullest part of the hips (varies according to figure type).

Bustpoint: 

Measure the same as the bodice length (6) from the shoulder seam at the neckline to the fullest part of the bust (arrow).

Back waist length: 

Measure from the most prominent bone at the base of the neck along the middle of the back to the lower edge of the tape measure at the waistline (arrow).

Front waist length: 

Measure from shoulder seam at the neckline to the lower edge of the tape measure at the waistline.

Shoulder length: 

Measure from the neck (arrow) to the seamline (dotted line).

Sleeve length: 

Measure from the shoulder cap to the outer edge of the wrist of a slightly angled arm.

Sleeve width upper arm: 

(Also called upper arm circumference): Measure the widest part of the stronger upper arm.

Neckline: 

Measure from the base of the neck directly above the collar bone.

Hip height: 

Measure along the side seam from the lower edge of the tape measure at the waistline to the middle of the tape at the hip.

High hip: 

Measure parallel from the fixed waistline tape down 3 in (8 cm).

Back width: 

Measure across the peak of the shoulder blades from the left to right inner edge of the upper arm.

Back crotch depth: 

Measure from the lower edge of the fixed waistline tape in a sitting position to the seat level.

Skirt length: 

Measure from the desired length to the front middle of the lower edge of the fixed waistline tape. Compare this measurement with the pattern instructions.

Side length: 

Measure along the side seam from the lower edge of the waistline tape to the floor. The normal pant length is about 3 in (7–8 cm) shorter than this measurement.