How to Measure for a Suit at Home - 7 Easy Steps

Q: Can I measure myself without help?

Yes, you can measure yourself using a mirror. A friend helps with accuracy, especially for shoulders and inseam.

Q: What kind of measuring tape should I use?

Use a soft measuring tape made for sewing. Avoid rigid rulers or construction tapes.

Q: Do I need to measure in inches or centimeters?

You can use either, but make sure you're consistent. Our calculator accepts both.

Q: Should I measure over clothes?

No. Measure over light clothing or directly on the body for best results.

A good suit needs a good fit.
But most people guess their size—and get it wrong.
Too tight. Too loose. Wrong length.
You don’t need a tailor to get it right.
You just need a few tools and this guide.
We’ll show you how to measure your body the right way.
It takes five minutes. No guesswork. No Let’s get started.

What You Need

Before you start, gather these:

• Soft measuring tape
• Full-length mirror
• Light clothing or no shirt
• A friend (optional)

That's it. Let’s move on.

1. Chest

Wrap the tape around the widest part of your chest.
Keep the tape flat and level across your back.
Arms down. Breathe normally.
Write down the number.

2. Shoulders

Stand straight with relaxed shoulders.
Place tape at the edge of one shoulder bone.
Stretch it across your back to the other shoulder.
Keep tape flat and straight.
Write down the number.

3. Waist

Find your natural waist—just above the belly button.
Wrap the tape around snugly, not tight.
Stand straight. Don’t suck in.
Write down the number.
Please note that with our size calculator you only need to know your jean size.

4. Sleeve Length

Place tape at the edge of your shoulder bone.
Measure to wrist, arm relaxed.
Do both arms. Use the longer.
Write it down.

5. Inseam

Stand straight with legs slightly apart.
Place tape at top of inner thigh.
Measure down to ankle bone.
Keep tape straight.
Write it down.

6. Neck

Wrap tape around base of your neck.
Leave a bit of space for comfort.
Tape should be flat, not tight.
Write it down.

7. Height & Weight

Stand straight against a wall.
Use a book to mark the top of your head.
Measure from floor to mark.
Use a scale to check weight.
These help fine-tune your fit.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Don’t pull the tape too tight.
Don’t measure over thick clothes.
Keep the tape flat and level.
Don’t guess double-check each one.
Ask for help if needed.

Use the Suit Size Calculator

Please remember our size calculator based on your jean size. So we make the process easier without requiring you to measure your waist.
You’ve got your numbers.
Now turn them into a perfect fit.
Go to our Suit Size Calculator and enter your measurements.
We’ll handle the rest.

AI-Powered Suit & Tuxedo Size Calculator

If you are unsure about your Suit & Tuxedo size, take advantage of our AI-Powered fit finder for an estimated fit!

FAQ: Measuring Yourself for a Suit

Suit Measurement Basics (3)

Can I measure myself without help?

Yes. A friend makes it easier, especially for shoulders and inseam. But you can still do it alone using a mirror and taking your time.

What kind of measuring tape should I use?

Use a soft measuring tape made for tailoring. Avoid rigid tools like rulers or metal tapes.

Do I need to measure in inches or centimeters?

Either works. But remember our size calculator accepts inches, make sure you’re consistent. You can also use our cm to inch converter

Fit & Accuracy (3)

How tight should the tape be?

Snug, but not tight. You should be able to slide one finger under the tape for most areas.

Should I measure over clothes?

No. Wear light clothing or measure directly on the body for the most accurate results.

How often should I remeasure?

If your weight or body shape changes, remeasure. Otherwise, once is enough unless tailoring is needed.

*First Purchase Offer

Get an Extra 10% Off + Get Free Shirt, Socks and Tie!

Use Code & 10% Discount

3351STCNT - Click to Copy

*Free shirt, tie and socks are selectable at product pages. You must add them to your look with selected color.

Get Your Suit Now!

By purchasing a suit from Suitcentury, you step into an exclusive world. Our priority is customer satisfaction, nothing less. We provide high-quality suits and tuxedos at truly affordable prices.