How to Measure
Use this guide to take accurate measurements for your bespoke garment. For best results, have a friend help you and wear well-fitted clothing.
Complete Guide
12 Key Measurements
These 12 measurements cover everything needed for a suit, jacket, shirt, trousers and coat.
Chest
Why we need it
The most critical measurement for upper garments.
How to measure
Measure around the fullest part of your chest, under your armpits, keeping the tape horizontal and snug but not tight. Keep arms relaxed at your sides.
Tip: Add 1 inch for a comfortable fit, or tell us your preferred fit style (slim/regular/relaxed).
Waist
Why we need it
Determines the waist suppression of the jacket and trouser waistband.
How to measure
Measure around your natural waist - the narrowest point of your torso, usually around 2 inches above your navel. Keep the tape comfortably snug.
Tip: Do not hold your breath or suck in while measuring.
Seat / Hips
Why we need it
Critical for trouser fit and jacket skirt length.
How to measure
Measure around the fullest part of your seat/hips, typically 8-9 inches below your natural waist. Keep the tape parallel to the floor.
Tip: Accuracy is more important than anything else - do not shy away from this measurement!
Shoulders
Why we need it
Determines the jacket shoulder width - the single most important fit point.
How to measure
Measure across the back from the edge of one shoulder to the edge of the other. Have a helper do this from behind.
Tip: The jacket shoulder seam should sit precisely at the edge of your natural shoulder.
Back Length
Why we need it
Sets the overall jacket length and proportion.
How to measure
Measure from the base of the neck straight down the spine to just below the seat.
Tip: A jacket should cover your seat and end roughly at the knuckles of your relaxed hand.
Sleeve Length
Why we need it
Sets the sleeve length for both jacket and shirts.
How to measure
Bend your arm slightly. Measure from the top of the shoulder down over the elbow to the wrist bone.
Tip: A suit jacket sleeve should reveal about half an inch of shirt cuff below it.
Neck
Why we need it
Essential for shirt and collar construction.
How to measure
Measure around the base of your neck where the collar normally sits. Insert one finger under the tape for ease.
Tip: Measure in the morning, as necks tend to swell slightly during the day.
Wrist
Why we need it
Used for shirt cuff sizing.
How to measure
Measure around your wrist just below the wrist bone. For buttoned cuffs, we add approximately 3/4 inch ease.
Tip: Let us know if you prefer a loose or snug cuff fit.
Trouser Inseam
Why we need it
Sets the trouser length.
How to measure
Measure from the crotch seam down the inside of the leg to where you want the trouser to end.
Tip: Most men prefer a slight break - where the trouser just touches the top of the shoe.
Trouser Outseam
Why we need it
Alternative to inseam - measures the full trouser length.
How to measure
Measure from your natural waist down the outside of your leg to where you want the hem.
Tip: Provide both inseam and outseam for maximum accuracy.
Rise
Why we need it
Determines the trouser rise (crotch depth).
How to measure
Sit on a hard chair. Measure from your waist at the front, down and between your legs to the chair seat.
Tip: Tell us if you prefer a mid-rise, low-rise or high-rise style.
Thigh
Why we need it
Critical for trouser fit around the upper leg.
How to measure
Measure around the fullest part of your thigh, typically a few inches below the crotch. Keep the tape comfortably snug.
Tip: Especially important if you have athletic legs or prefer a slimmer trouser cut.
Send Us Your Measurements
Email your measurements directly to us or include them with your online order.
Size Conversion Chart
Cross-reference standard sizing between UK, US and EU.
S = Short, R = Regular, L = Long. For bespoke garments your exact measurements are always used.
Expert Measurement Tips
Use the Right Tape
Always use a flexible fabric measuring tape, not a metal ruler. Fabric tapes conform to body curves for accuracy.
Wear the Right Clothing
Measure over a fitted shirt or lightweight clothing. Never measure over a heavy jumper, jacket or coat.
Stand Naturally
Stand with feet together, arms relaxed at your sides, and maintain your natural posture.
Get Help
Have a trusted friend or tailor take measurements for you. Self-measurements are less accurate for back measurements.
Measure Twice
Always measure each point twice and take the average. Large variations mean you should re-measure.
When in Doubt, Ask
If unsure about any measurement, email or call us. We are happy to guide you step by step.
Not Sure About Your Measurements?
Book an appointment at our Hong Kong studio or meet us during a city tour near you.