How to Take Your Own Measurements
Six measurements, one soft tape, about ten minutes. Get these right and we can cut for you from anywhere in the world.
Measurement Checklist
Click measurement points to view details
Video Measurement Guide
3:45 min
The six measurements, step by step
- 1
Bust or chest
Run the tape around the fullest part of the chest, keeping it level under the arms and parallel to the floor. Breathe normally and keep the tape snug, not tight.
- 2
Waist
Measure the narrowest part of your torso, usually about an inch above the navel. Keep one finger under the tape so the reading allows for movement.
- 3
Hips
Stand with your feet together and measure the fullest part of the hips and seat, roughly eight inches below the waist.
- 4
Shoulder
Measure across the back from the bony point of one shoulder to the other. This is the measurement most often taken wrongly, so use a well-fitting shirt as a guide.
- 5
Arm length
With the arm slightly bent, measure from the shoulder point over the elbow to the wrist bone. For agbada, note whether you want full or three-quarter sleeves.
- 6
Height and full length
Measure your full height without shoes, then the length you want the finished garment to fall — floor length, mid-calf or knee.
A few things that go wrong
- Measuring over thick clothing. Take everything over light clothes or underwear, otherwise the garment comes back loose.
- Pulling the tape tight. Snug is correct — you should be able to slide one finger underneath.
- Measuring your own shoulder and back. Ask someone else, or send us a well-fitting shirt’s measurements instead.
- Mixing inches and centimetres. Pick one and tell us which you used.
Rather have us do it? Book a virtual fitting and we will walk you through every measurement on a video call.
Book Your Virtual Fitting
Fittings run Monday to Saturday, 9am–6pm West Africa Time.