Taking Body Measurements

Apparel Development I Obj. 1.01Ms. Jessica Edwards

Determine body measurements, body type, and body build to determine body size.

Using this information and the pattern size information charts, correct garment size can be determined.

MaleTake the following measurements:• Height• Chest• Waist• Hips• Sleeve length• Inseam• Outseam• Neckband• Crotch depth

FemaleTake the following measurements:• Height• Bust• Waist• Hips• Backwaist length• Arm length• Crotch depth• Inseam• Outseam

Backwaist Length

Measuring from the prominent bone at base of the neck to waistline is the correct procedure for measuring the backwaist length.

Bust or Chest

Under the arms and around the fullest part of the bust or chest is where the measuring tape should be placed to measure the bust or chest correctly.

Inseam

The inseam measurement for slacks is determined by measuring from the crotch along the inside of the leg to the desired length.

Outseam

To determine a person’s outseam measurement, or pants side length, measure from the waist down the outside of the leg to the desired length.

Hip

To take the hip measurement for patterns, the tape measure should be placed around the fullest part of the hip.

Some Tips to Remember…

To use the tape

measure for basic

body measurements, be

sure this measuring

tool is held snug, but

not tight.

Accurate body measurements are taken over standard undergarments

To obtain accurate body measurements, work with a partner.

When body

measurements fall

between two sizes,

and the pattern

design is loosely

fitted choose the

smaller pattern sizeThe backwaist measurement is important to

determine the fit for a long-waisted figure type.