Before you buy a suit, it is important to
know the suit size that fits you best. It easy to find out what suit size
is for you by following these simple measurements.
Essential jacket measurements
Chest : Place the measuring tape
high under your arms at the widest point, covering your chest and your
shoulder blades. The tape should be completely level. You should be able
to breath normally and insert a finger between the tape. This suit
measurement yields both your chest and suit size.
Shoulder : Have a friend
measure across the top, back, of your shoulders. For this suit
measurement, the measuring tape should extend seam to seam.
Jacket length : This suit
measurement determines the ideal length from the bottom of the collar to
the bottom of the jacket. Measure from where your neck meets your back to
a point just below the curve of your buttocks.
Sleeve length : In this suit measurement,
determine your sleeve length by measuring from the shoulder to a point
that just covers the wrist.
Essential pants measurements
Waist : Most suits will
have a six-inch drop between the size of the jacket and the waist of the
slacks, with an allowance of 1.5 to 2 inches available for letting out.
Take this suit measurement with the tape comfortably loose, the tape
encircling your natural waistline.
Length : To measure your trouser length, find a pair
of slacks that fit well. Measure the outside seam length from the top of
the waist to the bottom of the leg; this is your outseam length. Measure
from the crotch to the bottom of the pant; this is the inseam length.
These two suit measurements should be within the unhemmed pant length
specified for the suit you purchase.
