How to Measure Your Body for Dress Pants

Waist Circumference

The waist measurement is taken exactly where their pant waistband normally sits. With the person facing you in a relaxed posture, pass the tape measure around their waist to meet at the front. This measurement should be taken snugly over undergarments or lightweight pants without a belt. Do not add any extra room.

Thigh Circumference

The knee measurement is taken around the center of the knee cap. Have the person in a relaxed stance. Wrap the measuring tape around the center of the knee and measure snug to the skin. Be sure the person is relaxed and not flexing their leg. This measurement should be taken wearing underwear or shorts. Do not add any extra room. We will add the appropriate amount of fabric allowance to this measurement. 

Calf Circumference

The calf measurement is taken around the fullest portion of the calf muscle. Have the person in a relaxed stance. Wrap the measuring tape around the calf snug to the skin. Be sure the person is relaxed and not flexing their leg. This measurement should be taken wearing underwear or shorts. Do not add any extra room. We will add the appropriate amount of fabric allowance to this measurement.

Low Hip

The low hip measurement is taken around the fullest part of the hips and butt. Start with the person facing you side on. Pass the measuring tape around the hip bones and butt, ensure that the measuring tape is level all the way around. Hold the tape snug to to the body without squeezing and take the measurement side on at the hip bone. This measurement should be taken over undergarments or lightweight pants. Do not add any extra room. We will add the appropriate amount of fabric allowance to this measurement.

Knee Circumference

The knee measurement is taken around the center of the knee cap. Have the person in a relaxed stance. Wrap the measuring tape around the center of the knee and measure snug to the skin. Be sure the person is relaxed and not flexing their leg. This measurement should be taken wearing underwear or shorts. Do not add any extra room. We will add the appropriate amount of fabric allowance to this measurement.

Inseam

Pant inseam length is measured from the 4-way crotch seam, down to the floor if barefooted, or to the top of the shoe heel. Then subtract one inch for a conservative full break; one and a half inches for a medium break; and two inches for no break. Alternatively, you may measure the inseam length of a pair of pants that fit well. Then, either match that length, or adjust to improve.