It’s important to know your measurements. Whether you’re getting something tailored or shopping online, having the right measurements will help you get a great fit.
If you can, we recommend going to a tailor and getting professional measurements done. They will be able to get the most accurate measurements with your desired fit in mind. For the most accurate measurements at home, be sure to use fabric tape, wear minimal clothing, and (if possible) have another person help you. All of the measurements below should be taken in inches (US).
Neck (Collar) Measurements
Measure the circumference of your neck starting at the nape, going around the back, and then back to the center of your nape. Make sure you’re measuring at the bottom of the neck.
Chest Width Measurements
Measure the width (not the circumference) of your chest aiming to get an even line of the tape 1” below the armpit.
Use a measuring tape, stand up straight, inhale, and take the tape around the widest part of your chest. Typically, that’s close to 1” below the armpit, but it may be different for some people.
You can also measure existing shirts/jackets you have that fit your chest well by laying the top on a flat surface and measuring from underarm to underarm. Be sure the garment is buttoned before you do so.
Some customers will try to measure “pit to pit,” but that’s not always the widest part of the chest. The pit to pit of a garment should be the widest part of the garment for an ideal fit so you’re not squeezing other parts of your torso.
In general, men’s traditional chest measurement sizing is around +1 or 2 inches of your pit to pit measurement. If you like a slimmer fit, adjust down 1 or 2 inches. If you like a wider fit, you can adjust up an inch or so.
Waist Measurements for Pant Size
You’re likely very familiar with the proper pant sizing. In order to get an accurate measurement of your waist, you’ll want to take the circumference of your waist around the smallest part of your natural waist. This is usually located right above your hip bone. Make sure to keep the measuring tape taut. If you like your pants to fit loose in the waist, you can add an inch.
Sleeve Length Measurements
Here’s where it helps to have another person. An accurate sleeve measurement is taken from the midpoint of your shoulder width on the back right at the base of your neck, over the top of the shoulder, and down to the bottom of the wrist bone.
Measuring Your Pants Inseam
The inseam measurement is the length (in inches) from your pants crotch (where the legs meet) down to the bottom hem, usually around the ankle. You’ll want to make sure you’re getting as straight of a line from crotch to hemline as possible.
For men, you also need to make sure you find a “comfortable” crotch point. A crotch measured too high up the thigh could restrict movement and cause problems if you’re not standing up perfectly straight. Depending on your footwear, you can opt to measure above or below the ankle line.