Getting the right fit for your suit can make all the difference in how you look and feel. Whether you’re preparing for a wedding, an important meeting, or just updating your wardrobe, understanding how to measure yourself accurately is key to finding the perfect fit. Here’s a simple guide to help you get your measurements for a suit, from jacket size to trousers.
Jacket & Waistcoat Size: It’s All About the Chest
Your jacket size is determined by your chest measurement. This is one of the most crucial measurements to get right, as it impacts how the jacket fits around your torso.
How to Measure Your Chest:
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Stand up straight with your arms relaxed by your sides.
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Using a soft tape measure, wrap it around the fullest part of your chest at mid-chest height, just under your armpits.
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Make sure the tape measure is level and snug, but not tight—there should still be room to breathe comfortably.
Once you have this measurement in inches, that’s your chest size! For example, if your chest measures 40 inches, then your jacket size is likely 40. Keep in mind, jacket sizes are usually labelled in inches and correspond to your chest size.
Fit Style: Tailored vs. Loose
Most jackets and blazers today come in a tailored or slim fit, which means the jacket will taper in at the waist for a sharp, modern silhouette. If you prefer a more relaxed, looser fit, you can always opt for going one size up.
Sleeve Length: How to Measure for the Perfect Sleeve Fit
Once you know your chest size, it’s time to consider sleeve length, which is usually labeled as Regular (R), Short (S), or Long (L).
How to Measure Your Sleeve Length:
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Stand with your arm relaxed by your side.
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Measure from the top of the shoulder, where the shoulder seam of your jacket would sit, down the outside of your arm to the point where your wrist meets your hand.
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You can also measure the length from the shoulder seam to the start of your wrist for more precision.
If your jacket sleeves are too short or too long, it can throw off the whole look of your suit. Most suit jackets are made with standard sleeve lengths, but always double-check if you need a specific size.
Trouser Size: Waist, Hip, and Inseam Measurements
For trousers, sizes are also measured in inches, and they usually refer to your waist size. However, the fit can vary between different styles, so it's important to take accurate measurements for both the waist and hips.
How to Measure for Waist and Hips:
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Waist: Measure around your waist, just above the hip bones. Make sure the tape measure is parallel to the floor and snug but not tight. This will give you your waist size, which is the size listed for trousers (e.g., 32 inches).
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Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips, keeping the tape measure comfortably snug. This is especially important for people who may have a wider hip area or if you're opting for a slimmer fit.
Inseam Measurement:
The inseam refers to the length of the pants from the crotch to the ankle. To get an accurate inseam measurement:
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Stand straight with your legs about 6 inches apart.
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Measure from where the leg meets the groin down to the middle of the foot just above the arch.
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The inseam length usually corresponds with your leg length, but you may want to adjust depending on how long or short you prefer your trousers.
Fit Style: Slim, Tapered, or Looser Fit?
Most trousers, whether they’re suit pants, chinos, or jeans, are slim or tapered fit, which means they narrow slightly towards the ankle for a more tailored appearance. If you typically wear jeans or chinos, be aware that these are usually a more relaxed fit. When switching to suit trousers, which are often more fitted, you might want to go one size up to ensure comfort and avoid feeling too restricted.
Short and Long Sizes: What You Need to Know
For those who fall outside the “regular” sizing, many brands offer Short (S) and Long (L) options. However, these tend to be clearance items or special stock, not standard options. These sizes typically reflect a variation of about -1” for Short (S) or +1” for Long (L) compared to the regular sizes.
So, if you’re between sizes or want a more custom fit, check if your retailer offers these alternative lengths and adjust your measurements accordingly.
Getting the Best Fit
The key to a perfect suit fit is taking accurate measurements and understanding how each piece of the suit will come together. When you know your chest,, sleeve, waist, hips, and inseam measurements, you’ll have a much clearer idea of what size will work best for you. Always remember that slim fit options are designed to hug your body, while looser fits offer more comfort and flexibility.
If you’re unsure about the fit, it’s always worth trying on a suit or checking with a tailor for any adjustments. A well-fitted suit doesn’t just look good—it makes you feel confident and ready to take on the day!
