How to Take Measurements

 In order for us to supply you with a beautifully designed period garment, we need measurements. And the more accurate they are, the better! The following information will help to ensure a quality, well fitting garment that, with good care, will last a life time.

You will need someone to help you take an correct and accurate set of measurements.  Begin  by dressing in ALL the appropriate undergarments for the period you portray such as your corset, corset cover, chemise, etc. This is VERY important in getting precise, well fitting  measurements. (What if someone does not have period costume to start? Do these measurements charts and info work for them? Is it required for them to have a period costume to start? If not, do they take measurements in a different way, or do you require a different form, additional info or measurements?)                    

1~Tie a string around your waistline. This will help you to find your natural waistline.  It gives us a point of reference for many of the measurements.

2~The measurements should be taken snuggly, but do NOT pull too tight.

3~In the areas where some flex and movement are needed, take the measurement where your body is the at the fullest. This will allow for a comfortable and more natural fit.

4~Take armscye measurement at the level corresponding with your Era.  This will gives us the right fit.  Take the measurement loosely.  If you have dress that fits well at the shoulders and armscye, you may take the dress measurements instead. (If you are unsure, please contact us at ...........)

5~Take the skirt measurements from the string at your waist to the floor over the petticoats and hoops.  You will need to subtract or add any length changes needed for your Era. (If the skirt needs to be longer you will need to add as many inches longer it needs to be.)

Use the measurement chart and photos below to help you get correct measurements.

Measurement Chart

Name:__________________________________________

Date:____________

Era:_____________

Bodice Measurements

(All front/back measurements are taken  from side to side)

1)Neck________      2)Front neck________       3)Neck base________

4)Neck length________      5)Front bust________         6)Full bust________

7)Underbust________         8)Bustpoint to bustpoint________

9)Chest(above bust)________       10)Back length________   

11)Chest depth (neck to chest point)______    12)Shoulder length______

13)Shoulder to bustpoint________             14)Shoulder to waistline________

15)Armscye(armhole)________      16)Waist________ 

17)Front waist________       18)Waist to hip________    19)Hip________

20)High hip________            21)Waist to hip______        22)Waist to high hip______

23)Front hip________           24)Front high hip_______   25)Upper arm_______

26)Forearm________           27)Wrist________     28)Back sleeve to elbow______

29)Inside arm to elbow________    30)Elbow to wrist_________

32)Shoulder to wrist (with slightly bent elbow)________

Skirt Measurements

33)Waist________    34)Hip________                 

36)Front skirt length (waist to floor)________                   

37)Side skirt length_______

38)Back skirt length_________
 

Measurement Photos

Please visit our photo measurements page.