The Perfect Suit: Measuring Guide For Aussies

how to measure suit size australia

Getting the correct measurements for a suit is crucial to achieving a flattering and sophisticated look. While it is possible to estimate your suit size by trying on different suits, taking the time to measure yourself beforehand will save you time and money, as well as ensure you get the right size. This is especially important if you plan to have your suit tailored. This guide will cover the key measurements you need to take to determine your suit size in Australia.

Characteristics Values
Chest Measurement Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of the chest, just under the arms.
Waist Measurement Measure where you typically belt your pants.
Trouser Seat Measurement Stand with your feet parallel and pull the measuring tape around the seat's most prominent part and around your hips.
Shoulder Measurement Measure from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other.
Crown to Cuff Measurement Pull the tape from the middle of your shoulder's crown down to your wrist.
Glove Size Wrap a tape measure around the widest part of your hand, excluding the thumb.
Knee Measurement Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your knee.
Rise Measure from the bottom of your crotch to your waist.
Outseam Measure from your waistband to the ground.
Height Use a pencil to mark your height on a wall, then use a tape measure to get an exact measurement.
Weight Use a bathroom scale.

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Chest measurement

To measure your chest for a suit, place a measuring tape under your arms, around the widest part of your back and across your chest. Do not pull the tape too tight—leave enough space to fit two to three fingers under the tape measure. This will ensure that your suit is comfortable and not too tight.

It is important to note that the chest size of a suit jacket is not the same as your body's chest measurement. The number on the suit jacket's size label (typically between 34 and 52) is the chest size of the jacket, and it usually comes in even sizes. Jacket lengths are typically short (S), regular (R), and long (L), but some brands offer extra short (XS) and extra long (XL) options.

If you are trying to determine your chest size for a suit jacket, you can refer to a sizing chart. These charts are usually attached to the product pages of online stores and will allow you to compare your body measurements to the sizing chart and select the appropriate size. For example, if your bust size is between 91 cm and 94 cm, you would select a Medium (M) size jacket.

Additionally, trying on suit separates can give you a good estimate of your suit size. Wear a dress shirt and dress shoes, and try on different jackets and pants until you find the right fit. Take note of whether the garment that fits you best is a slim or classic fit, as this can vary between brands.

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Trouser size

When it comes to trouser sizing in Australia, it's important to note that sizes may vary depending on the brand and style of the garment. To ensure the best fit, it's recommended to refer to the specific size guide provided by the brand or retailer. Additionally, trying on the trousers before purchasing is the most accurate way to determine the proper fit.

That being said, here is a general guide on how to measure your trouser size for both men and women in Australia:

Men's Trouser Size:

For men's trousers, the sizing in Australia is typically aligned with US sizing. The waist size and inseam length are the two key dimensions used in sizing. To find your waist size, wrap a soft measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist, usually just above the navel. Keep the tape flat against your skin, parallel to the floor, and ensure it is not too tight. The waist size corresponds to the circumference in inches or centimetres at this point.

To determine the inseam length, measure from the base of your crotch to the bottom of your pant leg on the inside seam. Alternatively, you can measure from the very top of your inner thigh to the bottom of your ankle. This measurement indicates the desired length of your trousers.

Women's Trouser Size:

Women's trousers come in various sizing systems, including general S, M, and L sizes, as well as waist and length (W&L) measurements. To find your waist size in the W&L system, wrap a measuring tape around the narrowest part of your waist, usually at the waistline or navel level. Measure the circumference in inches or centimetres. For the length, run the measuring tape along the inside of the leg, from the crotch to the sole of your foot or your desired pant length.

It's worth noting that trouser sizes may vary slightly between brands, and fabric shrinkage after washing can also affect the fit. Therefore, it is always a good idea to try on the trousers before purchasing if possible, ensuring a snug fit around the waist and the desired length.

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Jacket size

The chest is the most important measurement when it comes to determining jacket size. To measure your chest, wrap a tape measure under your arms and across the widest part of your chest. The tape should be snug but not too tight. This measurement will correspond to the chest size on the jacket.

The second key measurement is your sleeve length. To measure this, pull the tape from the middle of your shoulder's crown down to your wrist. This is known as the crown to cuff measurement. It is important to get this measurement right if you want your shirt cuff to show below your jacket sleeve.

You should also measure your overarm. To do this, place the tape measure over the outside of your arms across the thickest part of your chest. Subtract 7 inches from this measurement to get your corresponding chest measurement. Then, compare this to your chest measurement and take the larger of the two.

Other important measurements include your neck/collar size and your waist. To measure your waist, measure your lower waist, which is the circumference about three fingers below your belly button. To measure your neck/collar, wrap the tape measure around your neck, giving slight allowance for comfort and fabric shrinkage. You should be able to put at least one finger inside the tape measurement for a comfortable fit.

Finally, the length of the jacket is also important. Taller men will need longer jackets, while shorter men will need shorter jackets.

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Collar size

To accurately measure your collar size, you will need a flexible measuring tape and a mirror, or you can ask a friend to assist you. A flexible measuring tape is important as it easily contours around your neck, providing precise measurements. If you don't have access to a flexible measuring tape, you can use a piece of string and then measure it against a ruler.

When taking your collar size measurement, it is important to stand up straight with your head held high. Relax your neck and make sure you are not slouching. Wearing a thin shirt or no shirt at all will help you obtain precise measurements. Take the measuring tape and wrap it around the base of your neck, where a shirt collar would typically rest. Ensure the measuring tape is snug but not too tight, allowing for comfortable movement. Avoid pulling the tape too tightly, as this may result in an inaccurate measurement. It is recommended to have some breathing room, allowing for two fingers between your neck and the measuring tape to ensure the collar is not too tight.

Once you have the measuring tape in place, look in the mirror or ask your friend to note the measurement where the tape overlaps. Read the measurement in inches or centimetres, depending on your preference. Typically, collar sizes range from 14 inches (35.5 cm) to 20 inches (50.8 cm), with half-inch or one-centimetre increments. If your measurement falls between two sizes, it is generally advisable to choose the larger size, especially if you prefer a looser collar.

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Seat measurement

For men, the seat measurement is typically the largest measurement around the widest part of the hips. This is different from the waist measurement, which is the narrowest part of the abdomen between the rib cage and hip bone. It is important to note that waist measurements may vary among different manufacturers, so this is an essential measurement to get right.

For women, the seat size is often the same as the hip size, which is the circumference along the iliac crest. This measurement is crucial for determining trouser sizes in Europe. For example, a 34" seat size typically corresponds to a size 34 in ladies' trousers.

It is worth noting that some suit styles may offer a more generous seat cut. For instance, a "classic" fit or "regular" fit tends to have a more even cut without much tapering, providing extra room in the seat and thigh areas. In contrast, a "skinny" fit closely contours the body.

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Frequently asked questions

Wrap a measuring tape around the fullest part of your chest, just under your arms. Ensure the tape is snug but not too tight.

Position the tape measure where you normally wear a belt and wrap it around your waist. Slide your finger under the tape to ensure a comfortable fit.

Wear your dress shoes when measuring as they will alter your height. Find your outseam by measuring from your waistband to the ground.

Jacket lengths typically come in short (S), regular (R), and long (L). The length you choose will depend on your height and personal preference.

Try on different sizes and styles to see what works for your body type. Move around, sit down, and lift your arms to ensure the suit is not restrictive.

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