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Learning how to take measurements is an essential skill for shopping online, especially when it comes to vintage. In this tutorial, you will find all the information you need to ensure your purchases don't disappoint you. Why measuring garments is important Vintage garments are characterized by sizes and patterns typical of their era, which is why they can vary significantly. They are often custom-made (i.e., tailored for a specific person), so they do not feature size labels. In other cases, where a label is present, since the garments were produced in countries other than Italy with a different sizing classification system, the indicated size may not correspond to the garment's actual fit. For these reasons, it is fundamental to verify the measurements. Cut, size, and fit In tailoring, the extra centimeters compared to the body are called fit (or ease): they take into account the layers worn under that particular garment and the movements made while wearing them. They can also vary based on the type of garment. For example, if we take a size S jacket or coat, their measurements will obviously be greater than those of a shirt of the same size. The layers worn under a jacket—even more so under a coat—determine a standard increase in measurements that is not necessary for a shirt. Cut and model can also alter the perception of measurements even when dealing with garments of the same size. For example, the shoulder or bust measurement of a fitted size S jacket will clearly be smaller than that of a straight or flared-cut jacket, even though they are the same size. Verify measurements by comparing similar garments To obtain precise measurements to refer to, it is important to verify them by comparing not only the same types of garments but also the same styles. Practical examples To help you understand better, let's compare two pairs of pants of the same size but different types: one high-waisted and one low-waisted. The measurement corresponding to the waist of low-waisted pants is larger than that of high-waisted pants, as they sit at different points on the body. For this reason, if you are interested in purchasing high-waisted pants, it is important to compare them with another pair of pants of the same type (high-waisted). Similarly, the waist circumference and rise of high-waisted pants in size S will be different from those of low-waisted pants of the same size. The rise of high-waisted pants is visibly greater than that of low-waisted pants. This principle applies to any other garment, whether it's a blazer, a skirt, a shirt, and so on. Some exceptions It is also important to know about some specific types for which there is no precise measurement system, but only an indicative and variable range that sometimes depends on the material the garment is made of: Raglan or Batwing Sleeve: since there is no seam defining where the shoulders end, it is not possible to define a precise measurement. For this reason, the shoulder measurement is not indicated in the description (and in the case of batwing sleeves, neither is the bust). Puff Sleeve: when measuring shoulders from seam to seam, the garment might seem small, but in reality, it is the width of the puff that gives continuity to the shoulder. One-Size Garments: such as a cape or cloak. Fit and personal taste Measurements are very useful but should not be considered an absolute parameter. It is not just about dimensions, but also about how you like to wear a garment. For example, two people with the same physique may prefer garments with different fits and sizes (tight-fitting or conversely oversized). This depends entirely on personal taste. However, while a small garment objectively may not be flattering, the evaluation criteria for a larger garment (one, two, or more sizes up) is very subjective, as demonstrated by the oversized blazer trend. How to take measurements Below you will find instructions on how to correctly take the most common measurements. All you need is a tailor's tape measure and a little patience. A reminder: for an accurate measurement, keep both the tape measure and the garment being measured taut. How to measure an outer garment SHOULDERS: Measure from the back the distance between the left and right shoulder seams, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut.BUST/CHEST: Measure the distance from the left side to the right side at the point where the sleeve meets the side (corresponding to the armpits), keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. To calculate the circumference, multiply the measurement by two.SLEEVE: Measure the length from the shoulder seam to the wrist, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut.WAIST: Measure from the right side to the left side approximately at the navel, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. To calculate the circumference, multiply the measurement by two.LENGTH: Measure from the base of the neck to the bottom hem, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. How to measure pants or a skirt WAIST: Measure from side to side at the waistband, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. For the circumference, multiply by two.HIPS: Measure from side to side at the pockets or approximately at the end of the zipper, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. For the circumference, multiply by two.RISE: Measure from the top of the waistband to the bottom of the crotch, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut.THIGH: Measure from the outer edge of the thigh to the inside of the crotch, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. For the circumference, multiply by two.LENGTH: Measure from the edge of the waistband to the edge of the leg hem, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut.LEG OPENING: Measure the leg opening from one end to the other, keeping the garment and the tape measure taut. For the circumference, multiply by two. 💡 Useful Tip To avoid being caught unprepared, I suggest you keep a small note with the measurements of your favorite garments: jacket, coat, shirt, skirt, pants, etc. It can also be useful to have the length of the insole of a pair of pumps or sandals, as well as glove and hat sizes, so you always have them on hand to compare before making a purchase. For any questions, feel free to contact me at any time; I will be happy to help you!