At The Upper Layer, we understand the importance of finding outerwear that fits perfectly. A well-fitted coat, jacket, or vest not only enhances your style but also ensures maximum comfort. To help you get the best fit, we’ve put together this simple guide on how to accurately measure your chest, waist, shoulders, and sleeves.
What You’ll Need:
- A flexible measuring tape
- A mirror
- A friend to help (optional, but recommended)
- A notepad and pen to record your measurements
1. Chest Measurement
Getting the chest measurement right is key to ensuring your outerwear fits comfortably around your torso.
Steps:
- Position the Tape: Stand upright and wrap the measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest. This is usually just under your armpits and across your shoulder blades.
- Relax: Keep your arms down by your sides, making sure the tape is level across your back and snug but not tight.
- Record the Measurement: Note the number where the tape meets. This is your chest measurement.
Pro Tip: Use a mirror to ensure the tape is straight if you’re measuring alone.
2. Waist Measurement
Knowing your waist measurement will help ensure that your coat or jacket fits snugly without being too tight.
Steps:
- Find Your Natural Waist: Locate the narrowest part of your torso, typically just above your belly button.
- Position the Tape: Wrap the tape around your waist, ensuring it’s parallel to the floor and not too tight.
- Relax: Breathe naturally while measuring—don’t suck in your stomach!
- Record the Measurement: Write down where the tape overlaps.
Pro Tip: Measure over lightweight clothing or undergarments for accuracy.
3. Shoulder Measurement
This measurement ensures your coat or jacket sits perfectly on your shoulders, not too tight or too loose.
Steps:
- Locate Your Shoulder Points: Stand straight and identify the points where your shoulders meet your arms—this is where your shoulder seam should ideally sit.
- Measure Across Your Shoulders: Have a friend help you measure from one shoulder point to the other, straight across your back.
- Record the Measurement: This number is your shoulder width.
Pro Tip: Maintain a natural posture while measuring to avoid inaccuracies.
4. Sleeve Length Measurement
Proper sleeve length is essential for both comfort and style.
Steps:
- Position the Tape: Start at the point where your shoulder seam will sit (the shoulder point you identified earlier).
- Measure Down Your Arm: Extend the tape down the outside of your arm, passing over the elbow, and ending at your wrist bone.
- Record the Measurement: This is your sleeve length.
Pro Tip: Slightly bend your arm to mimic the natural position when wearing a coat or jacket.
Final Tips from The Upper Layer:
- Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.
- Consider layering needs. If you plan to wear thick sweaters under your outerwear, you may want to allow a little extra room.
- Use your measurements to compare against our size charts. Sizes can vary, so it’s important to refer to our specific sizing guide for each garment.
By following this guide, you can ensure that your next purchase from The Upper Layer fits like it was tailor-made for you. Happy shopping!
