HOW I MEASURE

Measurements are taken in inches and centimetres with the garment laid out flat and side seams straight out.  You will need to double the measurement to obtain the full size.

Bust: taken from underarm to underarm;

Natural waist: taken across the garment at the narrowest part of the waist.  If the waist is elasticated I will give the measurement of the waist unstretched and the measurement of the waist fully stretched;

Empire waist: taken across the garment under the bust;

Hips: taken across the garment, 7 inches below the natural waist;

Length: depending on the type of garment I will indicate for each item whether this is taken from centre back/neck to hem, shoulder to hem or waist to hem etc;

Upper sleeve length: taken from the shoulder to the end of cuff;

Any other measurements deemed to be appropriate for a garment will be given.

HOW TO SELECT VINTAGE CLOTHING FOR YOUR SIZE

You should remember that the measurements I give are the measurements of the garment and you should allow room for movement. Therefore if you have a 28 inch waist, a garment that has a waist measurement of 28 inches will be too tight (unless the fabric is stretchy).  The best way to assess whether a vintage garment will fit you is to follow these steps:

Step 1 - take your bust, waist and hip measurements in inches, and any other relevant measurements. For example, if you want to buy a long sleeved garment you will also need to know your arm measurements;

Step 2 - take corresponding measurements of one of your own garments, that fits you comfortably;

Step 3 - compare the two sets of measurements and take note of the difference between your measurements and the measurements of the garment. The difference will give you a guide as to how much bigger than you a garment should be to give you a comfortable fit.

Step 4 - Consider the style of the vintage garment that you are interested in, as this will affect your final decision on whether to buy. Remember that body shapes differ from one person to the next, and not everyone has the same proportions. For instance, in the case of an A line shift dress, it may not matter that the waist and hip measurements are a few inches bigger than your measurements, as long as the bust fits you comfortably. However, in the case of an hour glass shaped garment that fits you at the waist and hips, it will matter if the bust of the garment is too big, unless you are able to adjust the garment, or are able to get someone else to adjust it for you.

Finally, remember that your measurements, like your weight, can fluctuate, and this measurement exercise is one that you should carry out on a regular basis, to ensure the best chance of good fit. If you are in any doubt of any garment on this website, please contact me.  I welcome questions, so if you need advice on the fit of a garment or need additional measurements please ask. Remember, if you have an atypical body shape, such as a high or low natural waistline you will need to know measurements from the shoulder or neck to waist. I recommend that you have all the relevant measurements to hand when making a decision about an item on the website.  A well informed choice will avoid disappointment and the need for an item return. 

International Size Conversion Chart for Women

(Guideline only)