Measurement Guide

Full Body Measurement Guide

Bust, waist, and hips tell you your body shape — but torso length, shoulder width, inseam, and arm length are what actually determine whether a garment fits. Here is how to measure each one.

Looking for bust, waist, or hip measurements instead? See the bust, waist & hips guide.

Torso length

From the top of one shoulder, down the front of the body, through the legs, to the top of the same shoulder at the back

Stand up straight. Have someone else run a soft tape from your shoulder, down your front, between your legs, and up your back to the same shoulder point. This is the measurement swimsuit and bodysuit brands use most often to determine fit.

Used for: Swimsuits, bodysuits, leotards, jumpsuits

Shoulder width

From the edge of one shoulder bone to the edge of the other, across the back

With arms relaxed at your sides, measure in a straight line across your upper back from the bony point of one shoulder to the same point on the other. Keep the tape flat, not following the curve of your back.

Used for: Jackets, blazers, fitted tops

Inseam

From the crotch seam to the ankle bone, along the inside of the leg

Wearing well-fitting trousers, measure from the point where the inner leg seams meet down to where you want the hem to fall. Alternatively, measure an existing pair of trousers that fit you well, seam to hem.

Used for: Trousers, jeans, leggings

Arm length

From the shoulder bone to the wrist bone, with the elbow slightly bent

Bend your elbow slightly and place a hand on your hip. Measure from the bony point of your shoulder, over the bend of the elbow, down to the wrist bone.

Used for: Jackets, blazers, long-sleeve tops

Height / body length

From the top of the head to the floor, standing straight

Stand against a flat wall without shoes, heels touching the wall. Mark the wall level with the top of your head, then measure from the floor to that mark.

Used for: Overall proportion, dress length, general sizing charts

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between torso length and body length?

Torso length usually refers to the crotch-to-shoulder measurement used for swimwear and bodysuit sizing. "Body length" is sometimes used more loosely to mean overall height, and sometimes to mean the same crotch-to-shoulder torso measurement — always check which one a specific size chart means before ordering.

Do I need all of these measurements to find my body type?

No — body type classification (hourglass, pear, apple, rectangle, etc.) only uses bust (or chest), waist, and hips. The measurements on this page are for clothing fit beyond shape classification, such as sleeve length or trouser inseam.

How often should I re-measure?

Bust, waist, and hip measurements can shift with weight change, so re-measure every few months if your weight fluctuates. Skeletal measurements like shoulder width, inseam, and height stay stable in adulthood and rarely need re-checking.

Ready to find your body type?

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