How to Measure Yourself for Clothing Sizes

Sizes like M or 10 mean different things at different brands. Your own measurements, compared with each brand's size chart, are the most reliable way to buy clothes that fit, especially online.

What you need

A soft tape measure, a mirror and, ideally, someone to help. Wear thin, close-fitting clothes, stand relaxed and keep the tape level and snug but not tight.

The key measurements

• Chest or bust: around the fullest part, under the arms and across the shoulder blades.
• Waist: around your natural waist, usually the narrowest part above the belly button.
• Hips: around the fullest part of the hips and seat, with your feet together.
• Inseam: from the crotch down the inside of the leg to where you want the hem. It's easiest to measure a pair of trousers that already fit well.
• Neck (for shirts): around the base of the neck, leaving room for one finger.

Inches and centimeters

A 32-inch waist is 81.3 cm; a 96 cm chest is about 37.8 inches.

Using a size chart

Find each measurement on the brand's own chart. If you fall between sizes, think about the fit you like and the fabric: stretchy knits are more forgiving than woven cotton or denim. For trousers, match the waist first, because hems can be altered.

International sizes

Clothing sizes differ between the US, UK and Europe, and between men's and women's ranges, and no single conversion works for every brand. A chart from the specific brand beats a generic conversion table.

Sewing your own

Measurements also tell you how much fabric to buy. Patterns list the length of fabric needed for each size and fabric width, so check the width of the fabric before you buy.