How To Measure

NOTE: This is more complicated than you probably think it is, if you want the uniforms to fit comfortably and look good. Taking this time to read these instructions MAY end up saving you time and money. If you can, print them for reference.

Tips:

Don't let anyone measure themselves! It's too easy to make a mistake, especially when measuring hard to reach places.

Never simply ask an individual what size they wear. Uniform sizes do not necessarily relate to "retail" sizes, and most people will state their best retail size when asked (or they may guess at it, or even tell you what they want it to be!).

Waist measurements! Don't let them "suck it in." If they do, they'll pay for it later with a fit that's probably too snug. Just have them stand erect and relaxed.

DO have the individual wear the actual shoes that will be worn with the uniform. The style and type of shoe will affect the pant length. Keep this in mind when measuring.

DO NOT adjust measurements to allow for shrinkage.

DO order the larger size if measurements fall betweeen two sizes.

MEASURING WOMEN

WAIST: Standing to her side, measure around her natural waistline. The number of inches measured is her waist size.

SEAT (hips): Standing to her side, measure around the fullest part of her hips. Start 7 to 8 inches below the natural waistline. If the tape can easily be moved up and down, it's around the fullest part. The number of inches is her seat or hip measurement.

INSEAM: Standing in front of her, have her stand with both feet on the ground, legs straight and slightly apart. Have her hold one end of the tape measure at the base of her crotch seam. You straighten the tape down the inside of her leg to the top of her shoe. The number of inches shown is her inseam length. Remember - this measurement will be more accurate if she is wearing the shoes she will be wearing with the uniform.

MEASURING MEN

SLEEVE LENGTH: Standing in front of him, have him hold one arm chest high and parallel to the ground. Have him bend at the elbow and touch his nose. Measure from the bottom center back of the neck (the round bone at the top of his spine), down the arm, across the elbow to the far end of the wristbone. The number of inches shown is his sleeve length.

CHEST SIZE: Standing in front of him, measure around the fullest part of his chest, under the arms, and around the shoulder blades. The number of inches shown is his chest size.

WAIST SIZE: Standing in front of him, measure around his natural waistline, just above the hipbones. The number of inches shown is his waist size.

INSEAM: Standing in front of him, have him stand with both feet on the ground, legs straight, and slightly apart. Have him hold one end of the tape measure at the base of his crotch seam. You straighten the tape down the inside of his leg to the top of his shoe. The number of inches shown is his inseam length. Remember - this measurement will be more accurate if he is wearing the actual shoes he will wear with the uniform.