How to measure yourself, properly.
Accurate measurements are the foundation of every good fit. All you need is a soft measuring tape, five minutes, and this guide, the same one built into the Attirel app’s guided tutorial.
Before you start
- Use a soft tape measure (not a metal one) against bare skin or thin clothing.
- Keep the tape snug but never tight; it should sit flat without digging in.
- Stand naturally in front of a mirror so you can check the tape stays level.
Women’s measurements
1. Bust
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest. Wear a non-padded bra for the most accurate reading. A padded bra adds volume that won’t reflect your true size.
Tip: Keep the tape parallel to the floor and breathe out naturally.
2. Under-bust (optional)
Measure just below your bra band, snugly around your ribcage. Useful for wrapped and structured tops that need a precise fit around the torso.
3. Natural waist
Bend sideways — the crease that forms is your natural waist. Measure around that point, keeping the tape snug but not tight.
Tip: Stand straight after finding the crease. Don’t hold your breath while measuring.
4. High hip (optional)
Measure 3–4 inches below your natural waist, around the upper hip. Especially useful for A-line skirts and high-rise styles.
5. Hips & seat
Measure around the fullest part of your hips and seat, usually 7–9 inches below your natural waist. Stand with feet together.
Tip: Keep the tape parallel to the floor.
6. Inseam
Measure along the inside of your leg from your crotch to the floor, or to your preferred hem length.
Tip: No helper? Lay a well-fitting pair of pants flat and measure the inner seam instead.
Men’s measurements
1. Chest
Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, just below your armpits. Keep it parallel to the floor and stand naturally.
Tip: Don’t puff out or suck in — a relaxed, natural breath gives the most accurate reading.
2. Natural waist
Measure around the narrowest part of your torso, usually about 1 inch above your belly button. Keep the tape snug but comfortable.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your seat, keeping the tape parallel to the floor. Stand with feet together.
4. Inseam
Measure along the inside of your leg from the crotch seam down to the ankle bone, or your preferred hem length.
Tip: Measure the inner seam of a well-fitting pair of pants if you don’t have a helper.
Buying shoes too? See our companion guide: how to measure your feet.
Measured up? You’re done with size charts.
Enter your measurements once and Attirel does the size math for every brand and store.
Let Attirel do the size math →