The measure of a good fit
Reading No. 01 / Fit
A label is a starting point. A tape measure is a better conversation. Before choosing clothing, take a few measurements from a garment that fits the way you like and compare them with the chart for the item you are considering.
Garment measurements versus body measurements
A garment chart describes the clothing itself, not the body inside it. Clothing needs room to move. Do not choose a jacket whose listed chest circumference exactly equals your body chest unless the chart explicitly tells you to. When a chart gives a flat width, double it only if the heading says it is a half measurement.
Measure a shirt or jacket
- Button the garment, lay it on a flat surface and smooth it without stretching.
- For chest width, measure straight across under the armholes. For a circumference chart, double that flat width.
- Measure shoulder width between the two shoulder seams across the back.
- Measure the sleeve from the shoulder seam along the outside edge to the cuff.
- Measure back length from the base of the collar to the hem. Keep the tape straight.
On your body, keep the tape level around the fullest part of your chest, with your arms relaxed. Compare both measurements and the ease in a jacket you already like. A slim silhouette leaves less spare fabric than a relaxed cut.
Measure trousers
Button and zip a pair of trousers. Lay the waistband flat and measure across it, then double that number for waist circumference. Measure the hip across the widest area, doubling the flat width when comparing to a circumference chart. The outside length runs from the top of the waistband to the hem. Inseam runs from the crotch seam to the hem; these are different measurements.
Numeric trouser labels are kept as the item’s size labels. They should not be assumed to be a waist measurement in inches. Use the actual chart alongside the label.
Check the outfit in motion
A jacket should let you reach forward without severe pulling across the back. Sit down in trousers to check the waist and thigh. A shirt collar should close comfortably when you plan to wear a tie. Check sleeve length with your arms relaxed, then bend your elbows.
When two sizes look possible
Compare the most restrictive measurement first: often the chest or shoulder for jackets, and the waist or hip for trousers. A tailor can assess possible adjustments, but not every garment can be altered. Do not rely on an alteration before confirming that it is feasible.
Our charts show inches, converted from the stated garment measurements. Small rounding differences are normal; check the stated tolerance on the item. If you need help interpreting a chart, send the item name and your garment measurements through our contact page.