Suit Size Guide: Australia's Go-To Tips

what suit size am I australia

When buying a suit, there are two essential components to consider: fit and size. The fit refers to the overall shape of the suit, while the size describes the body size. Suit sizes in Australia are based on centimetres and include measurements for the chest, neck, sleeve/arm length, and waist. For example, a chest measurement of 96-98 centimetres would correspond to a size 38 in inches. It's important to note that the size of your suit jacket may not always match the size of your trousers, and that suit sizes can vary depending on your body shape, height, and weight.

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Chest, neck, sleeve/arm, and waist measurements

To determine your suit size in Australia, you need to take various measurements, including your chest, neck, sleeve/arm, and waist. Here is a detailed guide on how to measure each:

Chest

Stand in a relaxed posture with your arms down and measure around your chest, just under your arms and across your nipples. Ensure the tape is level all the way around your torso. Do not puff up your chest or hold your breath. The tape should be snug, with a wiggle room of roughly a finger under the tape.

Neck

Measure around the middle of your neck, at the level of your Adam's apple or the fullest part of your neck. Keep the tape level and relaxed.

Sleeve/Arm

Bend your arm at a 90-degree angle, with your arm resting at your hip. Start measuring from the middle of the back of your neck, across your shoulder, and down the outside of your arm to your wrist. Alternatively, you can measure from the seam of a closely-fitted shirt sleeve down to the second knuckle of your thumb.

Waist

Your waist measurement is typically your pant size. Measure your waist at the point where you would normally wear your pants.

It is important to note that suit sizes in Australia are generally based on centimetres. For example, a chest measurement of 96-98 centimetres corresponds to a size 38 in inches. Sleeve lengths also vary between short, regular, and long, and this information is usually included in the product description. Additionally, suit jackets are often labelled with lengths such as short (S), regular (R), and long (L), which can also influence the overall jacket length.

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Suit size conversion charts

When it comes to suit size conversion charts, it's important to note that suit sizes can vary depending on the brand, style, and country of origin. Here are some tips and guidelines to help you navigate suit size conversion charts:

Men's Suit Sizes:

The size of a man's suit jacket is typically determined by the chest circumference, which is the key measurement to focus on. This chest size measurement is usually the number you see on the label. However, it's important to remember that suit sizes can vary between different countries and regions, such as the US, Europe, and Australia.

Understanding "Drop":

Suits have a concept called "drop," which refers to the difference in size between the jacket and the trousers. For example, in European sizing, a classic suit may have a 6-inch "drop," meaning a 44-inch jacket would typically be paired with 38-inch trousers. However, this can vary depending on the individual's body shape, height, and weight.

S, M, L, and Beyond:

Some suit sizes are denoted by letters like S, M, or L, which stand for Small, Medium, and Large, respectively. These letter sizes can vary significantly between brands and countries. For instance, an Australian Medium (M) may correspond to different measurements than a US Medium. Always refer to the specific brand's size chart to determine your correct size.

Women's Suit Sizes:

While less common, women's suits also have varying sizes across brands and countries. Similar to men's suits, women's suits may also use S, M, or L sizing, but these can correspond to different numerical sizes depending on the brand and country. For example, a size Medium in Australia is typically around AU 12, but this may differ in other countries or brands.

Online Conversion Charts:

When shopping online, it's essential to use conversion charts specific to the country of the retailer. For instance, if you're buying from a US retailer, you would need to subtract 2 sizes from your Australian size to determine your US size. These charts help ensure you order the correct size, but it's always a good idea to refer to the retailer's size chart as well.

In conclusion, suit size conversion charts are essential tools for ensuring a proper fit when purchasing suits, especially when shopping across different brands and countries. Remember to consider chest and waist measurements, the concept of "drop," and the variations in S, M, and L sizing. By using these charts and understanding your measurements, you can navigate the maze of suit sizes and find the perfect-fitting suit.

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Trouser length

When it comes to trouser length, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, it's important to understand that trouser length is usually measured in centimetres or inches. In Australia, sizes are typically based on centimetres.

To find the right trouser length, you'll need to take measurements. Start by measuring your waist, as this is a key indicator of trouser size. Place a tape measure around your waist, just above your hips, and note the measurement. This will give you a baseline for your trouser size, which typically includes a range of waist sizes.

Next, you can focus on the length itself. This measurement is taken from the crotch seam to the bottom of the trouser leg. Take a pair of well-fitting trousers you already own and lay them flat. Measure the length from the crotch seam straight down to the bottom of the leg, following the outer seam. This measurement will guide you in selecting the appropriate trouser length.

It's worth noting that trouser length can often be adjusted. Many suits come with trousers that have adjustable waistbands and lengths. This means that even if the trouser length is slightly off, it can usually be altered by a tailor to ensure a perfect fit. Don't be too concerned if the trouser length is not exactly precise, as adjustments can be made to achieve the desired fit.

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Jacket and trouser size matching

When it comes to buying a suit, it is important to get the right size. Suits are sized differently in the US, Europe, and Australia, so it's important to be aware of the differences when purchasing a suit.

The chest circumference is the main measurement to focus on when selecting a suit jacket size. This measurement is usually the number you see on the label. The chest size guides the suit jacket size and determines other measurements, such as the lower waist and inside leg if you're getting matching trousers.

Suit trousers in Australia are sized similarly to those in the US and the UK, using inches. For example, a size 34 in Australia is the same as a size 34 in the US and the UK. On the other hand, Italian trouser measurements differ slightly, with sizes increasing in half-size increments. For instance, an Australian trouser size would be 30, 31, or 32, while the Italian equivalent would be 40, 40.5, or 41.

When dealing with European sizing, classic suits typically have a 6-inch "drop," meaning a 44 jacket will usually be paired with size 38 pants. However, this can vary depending on your body shape, height, and weight. It's worth noting that suit makers intentionally leave pants a little long, making it easier for a tailor to hem them to the correct height.

In addition to chest circumference, there are a few other key measurements to consider when purchasing a suit in Australia. These include the neck, sleeve/arm, and waist measurements. To measure your neck size, wrap the tape measure around the middle of your neck, at the level of your Adam's apple or the fullest part of your neck. For sleeve length, bend your arm at a 90-degree angle and measure from the middle of the back of your neck, across your shoulder, and down to your wrist. Your waist measurement is simply your trouser size.

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Getting help from a tailor

When buying a suit, it can be challenging to find the perfect fit. Off-the-rack suits are made to fit a range of body types, but they may not conform ideally to your unique body shape. This is where a tailor comes in. A tailor can help you get the right suit size and ensure that your suit fits you perfectly. Here are some ways a tailor can help:

Expertise in Suit Fitting

Experienced tailors have a keen eye for detail and can quickly assess how well a suit fits you. They can pinpoint areas that need adjustments and provide expert advice on the best way to alter the suit to achieve the desired look and comfort. Their expertise extends beyond basic alterations and includes understanding the suit's overall aesthetics and how it should drape and contour your body.

Adjusting Trouser Length

Suit makers often leave pants a little long on purpose. A tailor can hem your suit pants to the correct height, ensuring they fall just at the right spot. They can also taper the leg opening or adjust the width of the pants to create a more flattering silhouette.

Altering the Waistband

If your suit pants are too tight or too loose at the waist, a tailor can adjust the waistband to ensure a comfortable fit. They may also need to make corresponding alterations to the seat and crotch to maintain the proper balance and drape of the trousers.

Modifying Shoulder Width

While altering shoulder width is a complex task, a skilled tailor can narrow the shoulders of a suit jacket to a certain degree. This alteration can significantly improve the overall fit of the jacket, but it is important to note that it may be more cost-effective to purchase a new jacket.

Shortening or Lengthening Sleeves

Adjusting the length of sleeves is a common alteration that tailors perform. They can shorten or lengthen the sleeves of your suit jacket to match your arm length, ensuring a polished and comfortable fit.

Remember, while a tailor can work wonders, there are limitations to what can be altered. It is always best to start with a suit that fits you relatively well and use tailoring to perfect the fit rather than trying to drastically alter an ill-fitting suit. Additionally, consider the cost of alterations and whether it makes more sense to invest in a custom-made suit that requires minimal adjustments.

Frequently asked questions

To determine your suit size in Australia, you must take various measurements into account, including your chest, neck, sleeve/arm, and waist measurements. You can then compare these measurements to industry-standard sizes.

Australian suit sizes are typically based on centimetres. However, inches are also commonly used, especially for sleeve lengths, which are often described as short, regular, or long.

To measure your chest for an Australian suit size, you should measure just under your arms and across your shoulder blades, ensuring that the tape is level.

While there may be general guidelines, it's important to remember that body types vary. The best approach is to refer to the size chart of the specific brand you're considering and make adjustments as needed.

Yes, it is quite common to make adjustments to suit measurements after purchasing. A local tailor can easily modify sleeve length, blazer length, waist, and pant length to ensure a perfect fit.

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