SizeChartKit

How to Measure for a Size Chart: Bust, Waist, Hips, Inseam & Foot

Learn how to measure bust, chest, waist, hips, inseam, sleeve, neck and foot length before using a size chart.

Which measurement matters by page

Page typePrimary measurementsSecondary checksBest use
Women size chartBust, waist, hipsHeight, garment stretchTops, dresses, jackets, bottoms
Men size chartChest, waist, neckSleeve, inseamShirts, jackets, pants
Kids size chartHeight, weightChest, waist, ageChildren's clothing
Pants size chartWaist, inseamHips, risePants and trousers
Jeans size chartWaist, hipsInseam, stretchDenim and fitted bottoms
Shoe size chartFoot lengthWidth, brand fitShoes and boots

Measure twice and use the larger consistent number if the tape reading changes.

How to measure before choosing a size

Bust: measure around the fullest part of the bust while keeping the tape level.
Chest: measure under the arms around the fullest part of the chest.
Waist: measure the natural waist, usually the narrowest point above the belly button.
Hips: measure around the fullest part of the hips and seat.
Inseam: measure from crotch seam to the desired hem length.
Foot length: stand on paper, mark heel and longest toe, then measure the distance.

Related size charts

Women Size Chart

Use bust, waist, and hips after measuring.

Waist Size Chart

Convert your waist measurement into sizes.

Pants Size Chart

Use waist and inseam to choose pants.

More in Clothing

Women Size Chart

Most searchers want a fast women's clothing lookup that combines numeric sizes, alpha sizes, country conversions, and body measurements.

Men Size Chart

Men's sizing searches usually split into tops/jackets by chest and neck, and pants by waist plus inseam.

Waist Size Chart

Waist searches are measurement-led: users know or need to measure their waist and want the closest pants, jeans, dress, or alpha size.

Pants Size Chart

Pants searchers need practical fit: waist, inseam, rise, and how men's W x L labels relate to women's numeric sizes.

Jeans Size Chart

Jeans searchers often know a waist number but need help converting to women's numeric sizes, hip measurements, and inseam lengths.

Dress Size Chart

Dress shoppers want a fast US/UK/EU conversion and a measurement table for bust, waist and hips because dress numbers differ by brand.

FAQ

Should I measure in inches or centimeters?

Either works if the chart includes both. Centimeters can be more precise, while US clothing and pants often use inches.

Should the tape measure be tight?

No. Keep it snug and level without compressing the body.

What if my measurements are between sizes?

Consider the garment type. Size up for fitted non-stretch items; compare stretch, rise, and fit notes for casual garments.