{"id":2356,"date":"2017-04-04T00:00:00","date_gmt":"2017-04-04T00:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/dojoconsole.com.au\/looksmart\/a-womans-guide-to-clothing-measurements\/"},"modified":"2025-04-14T05:51:03","modified_gmt":"2025-04-14T05:51:03","slug":"womans-guide-clothing-measurements","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/womans-guide-clothing-measurements\/","title":{"rendered":"Clothing measurements for women: A DIY guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Many of us have fallen victim to an online shopping fail. One brand\u2019s size 6 is another\u2019s size 10. The gown that looked perfect for your big event arrives. However, despite ordering it in your size, it\u2019s loose on the hips and tight across the bust, digging in uncomfortably under your shoulder. You don\u2019t have time to order a new one before the event, so \u2013 what now?<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For a quick fix, bring that dress to the experts at LookSmart. A few <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/services\/clothing-alterations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">alterations<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> will have it feeling comfortable and looking custom-made.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you order online again, however, it\u2019s important to know your measurements. Everyone\u2019s body has its unique proportions. When clothing brands take standard sizing as a gentle suggestion, you\u2019ll need to take matters into your own hands and come armed with your measurements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In this guide, we\u2019ll teach you how to take your measurements (from bust to hips), understand size charts, show you which measurements matter for different clothing, and explore how tailoring can elevate your wardrobe for a flawless fit.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Common measurements for women&#8217;s clothing<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shopping is easier when you know your measurements. Here are the key measurements you\u2019ll need to take.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Bust:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Across your chest.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Underbust:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Directly under your bust.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Waist:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Around the smallest part of your torso.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Inseam: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The distance from the top of your inner thigh to your ankle.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Hips:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Around the widest part of your hips.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shoulders:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> From the outer edge of one shoulder to the other.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Arm loop:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Around your shoulder and under your armpit.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Height:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> From the top of your head, straight down to the floor.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Shopping according to your correct measurements is the secret to effortless style. The perfect fit transforms how your clothes drape and move with your body. Even a plain pair of jeans with a nice top, if they fit impeccably, will make you look refined and chic.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With a great fit, you have the perfect base to layer on style and personality. Just add jewellery, a bold-coloured bag, and a timeless pair of shoes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Tailoring 101: How to take your measurements<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing your unique measurements is the first step to mastering fit and style. With a measuring tape and pen, you can take control of your wardrobe and ensure that every piece flatters your shape.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before we begin, make sure you have these three things prepared.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A soft measuring tape\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A notepad or phone to record measurements<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A mirror for accuracy<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you take your measurements, you\u2019ll want to stand naturally, not suck in, and keep the tape snug to your body but not tight. Wear fitted clothing or measure directly on bare skin for the most precise measurements.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Here are the simple steps to help you measure yourself at home.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Bust<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measure your bust by wrapping your tape around the widest part of your chest, typically in the middle. Make sure the tape is flat along your back.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Modern fitting experts recommend simply using your underbust measurement as the band size to find your bra size. You can take your under-bust size by measuring snugly around your ribcage, just under your bust. You\u2019ll want to round it up to the nearest even number. This can then be compared to standard Australian underband sizes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Then, using the bust size you previously measured, subtract that number from your bust size to find your cup size (1 inch = A cup, 2 inches = B cup, etc.).<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Waist<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Find the narrowest part of your torso, usually five centimetres above your belly button. Then, stand comfortably, breathe normally, and use your soft tape to note your waist measurement.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t measure first thing in the morning, as your best fit comes from an accurate, relaxed measurement after you\u2019ve eaten regular meals.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-315 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-2.jpg\" alt=\"How to measure your waist\" width=\"500\" height=\"856\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Hips<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand with your feet together and wrap the tape around the widest part of your hips and glutes. Keep it level and snug without causing your body to contort. Use your mirror to check that the tape isn\u2019t dipping down. <\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-316 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-3-1.jpg\" alt=\"How to measure your hips\" width=\"500\" height=\"856\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Shoulders<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It helps to have someone you are comfortable with to help measure your shoulders. Measure from the outer edge of one shoulder to the other, following the natural curve of your back. Stand with your natural relaxed posture. Being hunched over or pushing your shoulders back can throw off your measurement.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-317 alignnone\" style=\"font-size: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-4.jpg\" alt=\"How to measure your shoulders\" width=\"620\" height=\"1062\" \/><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Arm loop<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Drape the tape over your shoulder and loop it under your armpit. Keep your arm slightly away from your body while measuring. Otherwise, your measurements will be too tight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 style=\"text-align: left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-318 alignnone\" style=\"font-size: 16px;\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-5.jpg\" alt=\"How to measure your arm loop\" width=\"500\" height=\"856\" \/><\/h2>\n<h3><b>Inseam<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Measure from the top of your inner thigh down to your ankle. If you wear heels often, add an extra half-inch to ensure the right length for trousers and jeans. In a pinch, you can use a pair of pants that fit well as a guide instead.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Height<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stand tall against a wall, feet flat, and mark the top of your head with a soft pencil you can easily rub off the wall. Measure from the floor to this point.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-319 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-6.jpg\" alt=\"How to measure your height\" width=\"620\" height=\"1062\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>Getting expert measurements<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When you measure yourself, you want to get it right, as your insights will only be as helpful as your accuracy. <\/span><b>To ensure your measurements are right the first time, visit a tailor.<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Tailors measure people daily and know exactly where to take measurements to get your natural, relaxed fit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>What measurements do you need for different clothing?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting the perfect fit is all about precision. Whether you\u2019re curating a work wardrobe or investing in timeless staples, these are the measurements you\u2019ll want to take for every piece.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Top<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust and waist.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Blouse<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust, shoulder width, and sleeve length.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pants<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Waist, hips, and inseam.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Dress<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust, waist, and hips.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Skirt<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Waist, hips, and inseam (optional).<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Jacket\/Blazer<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust and shoulder width.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Shorts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Waist, hips, and inseam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sweater\/Hoodie<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust and shoulder width.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Jumpsuit<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust, waist, hips, and inseam.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Coat<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Bust, waist, and hips.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><b>Feeling confident in your fit<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The secret to looking and feeling amazing in your clothes isn\u2019t about fitting into a specific shape or squeezing yourself into an uncomfortable silhouette. It\u2019s about wearing clothes designed for your body that allow you to move freely and confidently.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Knowing your measurements helps you choose and tailor styles that fit and feel made for you. Naturally, look for clothes that will fit your body shape well. For example, if you don\u2019t have a wide ratio between your hips and waist, look for pants that work for you, not the other way around.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t force yourself into the pair of pants you wore when you were 18. Go get the pants that will support you through your next stage of life and get them expertly tailored for the perfect fit. The confidence that comes with wearing clothes that fit shows in how you carry yourself.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>Refine your wardrobe with professional tailoring<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Off-the-rack clothing is made to fit standard mannequin sizes, not yours. That\u2019s why even the most stunning pieces can sometimes feel slightly wrong. We\u2019ve all tried something on and thought it was perfect, except for the sleeve length, bust size, etc.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tailoring bridges this gap and turns standard-size clothes into pieces that fit like they were designed just for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Investing in alterations isn\u2019t about looking fancy, it\u2019s also a sustainable choice. That jacket you haven\u2019t worn in years? A few expert adjustments could bring it back to life, saving it from the landfill. Plus, well-tailored pieces stand the test of time, giving you a wardrobe that lasts season after season.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">LookSmart\u2019s expert tailoring ensures your clothes fit like a glove, enhancing your comfort and confidence while extending the life of your wardrobe.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>When should you update your measurements?<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Your body changes over time, and so should your measurements. Weight changes, strength training, pregnancy, or even changes in age and posture can all impact how your clothes fit.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To avoid size issues, recheck your measurements before investing in key wardrobe staples or tailoring your pieces. Different fabrics and garment styles can also play a role. Structured pieces like blazers require more precise sizing, while stretchy fabrics offer flexibility.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Size charts are supposed to add clarity to finding your size, but \u2013 despite this \u2013 they usually aren\u2019t consistent. Check the sizing guide from the shop you are buying from first to ensure your measurements match their specific sizing.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even with a size chart, brands can have slight variations in fit, so don\u2019t rely solely on the number. Focus on the measurements. If you\u2019re between sizes, sizing up and tailoring for a custom fit is always smarter than hoping a smaller size will work.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, double-check that you use a size chart from the correct country to avoid unwanted surprises. Here is the standard Australian sizing chart to help you determine your size.<\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-320\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-7.jpg\" alt=\"Women's clothing size chart\" width=\"620\" height=\"346\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><b>International size conversions: Australian to global sizing<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Now that you know your Australian size, you can use a conversion chart to compare it to international sizing. Since brands interpret sizes differently, remember to rely on your measurements rather than the number on the tag. <\/span><\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: left;\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-313\" src=\"https:\/\/looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/08\/looksmart-A-Womans-Guide-to-Clothing-Measurements-8.jpg\" alt=\"Women's International clothing size chart\" width=\"620\" height=\"404\" \/><\/p>\n<h2><b>Summing up<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding your measurements is the foundation of a wardrobe that looks and feels incredible. Professional alterations can make all the difference if you\u2019re looking for the confidence that comes with clothes that truly feel like they were made for you.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At LookSmart, we tailor your favourite clothes to perfection, whether it\u2019s a new wardrobe addition or a beloved piece that needs a refresh. Find your <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/locations\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">nearest location here<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and pop in for a <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/contact-us\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">chat<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with our experienced tailors. We&#8217;ll help you achieve your best fit, so you feel confident and comfortable in all your clothes.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><b>FAQs<\/b><\/h2>\n<h3><b>How do I know my size when clothing sizes vary so greatly?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Our advice is to always refer to the brand&#8217;s size guides. Try focusing less on the (sometimes arbitrary) size you think you are and more on your actual measurements. When in doubt, size up.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>How do I correctly measure my bust size?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">To measure your bust size (or chest size), wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your breast, ensuring the tape is level across your back. If you are looking to find the size for your bra underband, measure right underneath your bust on top of the ribcage. ou can use this body measurement to help determine your cup size and bra size.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>How can decades of experience in tailoring help with my fit?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decades of experience in tailoring mean a deep understanding of how body measurements and garment proportions affect fit. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/about-us\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skilled tailors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can adjust clothing sizes and patterns precisely, ensuring a smooth fit that enhances your body and style. They can also take accurate measurements (from waist measurements to bust size and band sizes).<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Whether you\u2019re purchasing something online or having something altered, knowing your measurements \u2013 including your bust, waist, hip, seam, shoulder width and sleeve length \u2013 is key to having perfectly fitted clothing. And having your clothes sitting just right can really make the difference between looking good and looking great in a piece of clothing\u2026.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":14816,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[46,50],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2356","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-alterations","category-care"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2356","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2356"}],"version-history":[{"count":10,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2356\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18014,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2356\/revisions\/18014"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/14816"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2356"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2356"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.looksmartalterations.com.au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2356"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}