Custom Tailoring Guide
How to Take Your Measurements
Precise measurements are the foundation of a perfectly fitted garment. Follow this illustrated guide to provide accurate data when booking your appointment — or visit our atelier in Accra or Kumasi for a professional fitting.
What You'll Need
A soft measuring tape (in centimeters), a flat wall, a mirror or a friend to help, and lightweight clothing. Set aside about 10 minutes in a well-lit room.
Height
- 1.Stand barefoot against a flat, straight wall.
- 2.Keep your posture upright — shoulders relaxed, chin level.
- 3.Place a flat object (a book) on top of your head against the wall.
- 4.Measure from the floor to the mark on the wall.
Ask a friend to help — it's hard to stay perfectly straight while measuring yourself.
Chest / Bust
- 1.Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your chest.
- 2.Keep the tape level under your arms and across your shoulder blades.
- 3.Don't pull tight — leave room for two fingers underneath.
- 4.Breathe normally and stand relaxed while reading the number.
Wear a lightweight, unpadded bra or shirt for the most accurate result.
Waist
- 1.Find your natural waistline — the narrowest part of your torso.
- 2.This is usually just above the belly button, below the rib cage.
- 3.Wrap the tape around this point, keeping it parallel to the floor.
- 4.Stand relaxed and breathe normally — don't suck in your stomach.
Bend side-to-side to find where your body naturally creases — that's your waist.
Hips
- 1.Stand with your feet together.
- 2.Wrap the tape around the fullest part of your hips and seat.
- 3.This is approximately 20 cm (8 inches) below your waistline.
- 4.Keep the tape level all the way around.
The tape should sit over the widest point of your buttocks, not at the hip bones.
Shoulder Width
- 1.Stand up straight with arms relaxed at your sides.
- 2.Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other.
- 3.Start and end where the shoulder meets the sleeve seam on a well-fitting shirt.
- 4.Keep the tape straight across the top of your back.
Wearing a fitted shirt makes it easier to find the exact shoulder points.
Inseam
- 1.Stand up straight with feet shoulder-width apart.
- 2.Measure from the inside of your leg, starting at the crotch seam.
- 3.Run the tape down to where you want the trouser hem to fall.
- 4.For accuracy, wear the shoes you'll pair with the garment.
The easiest way: measure a pair of well-fitting trousers from crotch seam to hem.
Pro Tips for Accuracy
Use a soft, flexible measuring tape — never a metal ruler or string.
Wear lightweight, form-fitting clothing while measuring.
Measure twice to confirm each number — accuracy matters.
If you're between sizes, round up for comfort, never down.