How to measure yourself for a costume
Most fit problems start with the tape measure, not the sewing. A costume maker builds to the numbers you give. If those numbers are off by 3 cm, the costume will be too.
You need a soft tape, a mirror, a pen and a second person. Wear the underlayers you will have on at the event: the corset, the tights, the padding, the shoes.
The measurements
| Measurement | How to take it |
|---|---|
| Height | Barefoot against a wall, floor to top of head. |
| Bust or chest | Around the fullest part, tape level across the back. |
| Underbust | Snug around the ribs, directly under the bust. |
| Natural waist | Narrowest part of the torso. Bend sideways to find it. |
| Hips | Fullest part of the hips and seat, about 20 cm below the waist. |
| Shoulder width | Bone to bone across the back. |
| Sleeve length | Shoulder point to wrist bone, arm slightly bent. |
| Nape to waist | Back of the neck to the natural waist. |
| Waist to floor | Natural waist to floor, in the shoes you will wear. |
| Inseam | Crotch to ankle bone, inner leg. |
| Head circumference | Around the forehead, above the ears. |
Mistakes that cause bad fit
- Pulling the tape tight. It should lie flat against the body with one finger of slack.
- Measuring over bulky clothes. Jeans and a hoodie add centimetres that vanish later.
- Guessing the waist. The natural waist is not where your trousers sit.
- Skipping shoes. Hem length depends on heel height.
- Measuring once. Take each number twice. If they differ, take it a third time.
Kids and growing performers
Measure as close to the fitting date as you can. Tell the maker how many weeks until the event. Good makers add growth room in hems and waistbands, but only if they know it is needed.
If you cannot measure well
Say so in the brief. Some makers will send a measuring guide or hold a video fitting. A local seamstress can also take measurements for a small fee, and many makers will accept them.
Send the numbers with your post
Write the measurements in your brief, in centimetres or inches, and say which. Add a full-length photo of the wearer standing straight, front and side. Makers can then quote accurately and flag anything unusual.
Ready to post your costume? Post your brief on The Spool List and compare bids from makers around the world.