How to Measure ?
Metta Febriyan
Here's a detailed, easy-to-follow guide to help you :
Neck circumference
The measurement around the base of your neck, where a shirt collar or necklace would naturally sit.
Bust
Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your bust, ensuring the tape is parallel to the ground. It should rest gently on your back without pulling. Keep the tape comfortably snug but not tight, and take the measurement while standing straight.
Waist
Find the narrowest part of your torso, which is usually above your belly button and below your ribcage. This is your natural waistline. Wrap the measuring tape around your waist, ensuring it stays parallel to the floor and snug without squeezing. Don’t hold your breath while measuring.
Upper Hips
The circumference around your body about 3–4 inches (7–10 cm) below your natural waistline.
Lower Hips
Stand with your feet together. Measure around the fullest part of your hips, which is typically around 8-9 inches below your waist. Make sure the tape is level all around your body, and avoid pulling the tape too tight to get a more accurate measurement.
Bust to Bust Measurement
(also known as Apex to Apex) is the horizontal distance between the fullest points of each breast, typically measured from nipple to nipple.
Bust to Waist
Measure vertically from the center of your bust (nipple area) down to your waistline. Keep the measuring tape straight and snug along your body to ensure precision.
Waist to Hip
Measure vertically from your waistline to the fullest part of your hips. This helps determine the fit of the gown around your lower torso.
Back Length
Measure from the nape of your neck (at the spine) to the point where you want the dress to end. For example, to the top of your waistline or the hip area.
Shoulder Width
Measure from the edge of one shoulder bone to the edge of the other. It’s best to stand straight and relaxed, making sure the tape goes straight across the back, from one shoulder point to the other.
Shoulder to Bust
The vertical measurement from the top of your shoulder (where a shoulder seam would naturally sit, close to the neck) to the apex of your bust (usually the nipple area).
Shoulder to Floor
The vertical length from the top of the shoulder (next to the neck) all the way down to the floor, passing over the bust and hips.
Waist to Floor
The vertical distance from your natural waist (narrowest part of your torso) down to the floor.
Inseam (for pants or skirts)
If you're also getting pants or a skirt made, measure from the top of your inner thigh to the ankle. Make sure the tape runs along the inside of your leg and is straight.
Neckline to Waist
Measure from the center of your neckline (at the base of your throat) straight down to your waistline.
Neckline to Floor
Vertical distance from the center of your front neckline (the point where the dress neckline begins—can vary based on design) down to the floor, following the natural contours of your body.
Nape to Waist
Vertical distance from the nape of your neck (the prominent bone at the base of your neck, down to your natural waistline (the narrowest part of your torso, typically just above the belly button).
Nape to Floor
Vertical distance from the nape of your neck (the prominent bone at the base of your neck) all the way down to the floor, following the natural curve of your back and over your hips.
Arm Length
With your arm slightly bent, measure from the top of your shoulder (where it meets the arm) down to the wrist. Keep your arm in a natural, relaxed position to avoid skewing the measurement.
Biceps Circumference
Measure around the largest part of your upper arm, which is typically when your biceps are relaxed. For the most accurate reading, measure at the midpoint between your shoulder and elbow.
Elbow Circumference
Wrap the tape measure around the elbow joint itself, at the widest part of the elbow when the arm is in a relaxed position. The tape should be comfortable but snug around the area.
Wrist Circumference:
Measure the circumference of your wrist just above the bone (where a watch band would sit). Again, the tape measure should fit snugly but not tight.
Shoulder to Elbow:
Measure from the top of the shoulder (where the arm meets the body) to the elbow. This can be done using a fabric or soft measuring tape to ensure a smooth and accurate line.
Tips
Stand tall and relaxed: Keep your posture straight without puffing out your chest or tucking in your stomach.
Use a soft measuring tape: This will allow you to get precise measurements around curves.
Check the fit: Make sure the tape is snug but not tight; you should still be able to breathe comfortably.
Taking these measurements accurately will provide the foundation for a perfectly fitted couture gown that complements your body shape. Make sure to measure yourself multiple times to ensure consistency and accuracy.
The Art of Precise Body Measurement
Creating a breathtaking couture gown requires meticulous attention to detail, and the foundation of that is accurate body measurement. Think of it as creating a personalized blueprint of your body, ensuring the gown fits like a second skin. This process is more than just taking numbers; it's about understanding the nuances of your unique shape to achieve the perfect drape, silhouette, and comfort. While it might seem daunting, with a little guidance and a friend to help, you can capture these essential measurements with ease.
