How to take suit measurements

Quick Answer: How Do You Take Suit Measurements at Home?

  • Use a soft measuring tape and, if possible, a helper.
  • Wear a thin shirt and stand naturally, with your arms relaxed.
  • Keep the tape snug but not tight, and level all the way around.
  • Measure twice and use the larger number.
  • Compare your numbers to the size guide.

Measuring yourself for a suit is easy once you know the technique. This guide focuses on how to measure accurately at home: what you need, how to stand and the common mistakes to avoid. For how suit sizes work and how to turn your numbers into a size, see how to measure for a suit.

What You Need

  • A soft, flexible measuring tape (not a metal one)
  • A mirror
  • A helper, especially for shoulders and sleeves
  • A pen and paper or your phone's notes app
  • A thin, well-fitting shirt

Before You Start

  • Wear a thin shirt and remove your belt, wallet and phone.
  • Stand naturally. Don't puff out your chest or suck in your stomach.
  • Keep the tape level around your body.
  • Snug, not tight. You should be able to slide a finger under the tape.

How to Take Each Measurement

Chest

Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest, under your arms and across your shoulder blades.

Shoulders

Measure across your back from the edge of one shoulder to the other. This one needs a helper.

Waist

Measure around your natural waist, where your dress pants sit, usually just above your hip bones.

Hips

Stand with your feet together and measure around the widest part of your seat.

Sleeve

With your arm relaxed, measure from the edge of your shoulder to your wrist bone.

Inseam

Measure a pair of well-fitting dress pants from the crotch seam to the hem. This is often more accurate than measuring your body.

Jacket length

Measure from the base of your collar down to where you want the jacket to end, usually just covering your seat.

Collar

Measure around the base of your neck and add half an inch for comfort.

Common Mistakes

  • Measuring over a sweater or thick shirt
  • Pulling the tape too tight
  • Letting the tape slip down at the back
  • Measuring your waist at your hips instead of where your pants sit
  • Guessing instead of measuring twice

Next Steps

Compare your measurements to our size guide. Tip Top suits come in Slim Fit and Modern Fit, with jackets and pants sold separately. Want to check fit once it arrives? See how a suit should fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I measure myself without help?

You can measure your chest, waist, hips and inseam alone. Shoulders and sleeves are easier with a helper.

Should I measure over clothes?

Over a thin shirt only. Remove sweaters, belts and anything in your pockets.

What if I'm between sizes?

Size up in the jacket for comfort through the shoulders, then check the fit.

Find Your Size at Tip Top

Shop suits in Slim Fit and Modern Fit, or visit one of our 80+ locations across Canada for help.

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