Getting your measurements right is the single most important step when ordering tailored or made-to-measure clothing online. A garment cut to your exact dimensions will always fit better than one sized by general standards. Here is how to take your measurements accurately at home.
What You Will Need
A soft measuring tape (the kind used for sewing), a mirror, and ideally a second person to help with back measurements. Wear fitted clothing or measure directly on the body — never over thick layers.
Key Measurements Explained
Chest
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it parallel to the ground and snug but not tight. Note the number where the tape meets. This is your chest circumference.
Shoulders
Measure from the edge of one shoulder (the point where your shoulder meets your arm) across your upper back to the same point on the other side. This determines how wide the shoulder seam of your garment will sit.
Waist
Measure around your natural waist — typically the narrowest point of your torso, roughly two finger-widths above your navel. Keep the tape comfortable, not sucked in.
Hips / Seat
Stand with your feet together and measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat. This is especially important for bottom wear such as churidars, trousers, and pajamas.
Sleeve Length
Bend your arm slightly at the elbow. Measure from the top of your shoulder seam down to your wrist bone. A slight bend ensures you have enough ease when your arms are in motion.
Shirt Length
Measure from the top of your shoulder (at the base of your neck) straight down to where you want the garment to end. For kurtas, this is typically mid-thigh to just above the knee.
Inseam (for bottom wear)
Measure from your crotch point down to your ankle. For churidars, add 5–8 cm to your inseam measurement to allow for the characteristic gathering at the ankle.
Tips for Accuracy
- Always measure twice and record the larger of the two readings.
- Keep the tape parallel to the ground for all circumference measurements.
- Do not pull the tape tight — a finger’s width of ease is appropriate.
- If you are between sizes, it is always easier to take in a garment than to let it out.
Using Your Measurements
Once you have all your measurements, compare them against the size chart provided on each product page. If your measurements fall between two sizes, consider where fit matters most to you — chest and shoulders are the hardest to alter, so prioritise those.
For a guided experience, visit our Measurement Assistance page, where we walk you through the process in detail and help you choose the right size for each garment type.
When to Get Re-Measured
Body measurements change. If your last set of measurements is more than a year old, or if your weight has shifted noticeably, take a fresh set before your next order. Accurate measurements are a one-time effort that pays off every time you order.