Measurements for developing and evaluating apparel, footwear, and accessories
How to Measure  Size Specs  Education

The clothing industry must follow basic POMs (points of measure) when specing different garments, shoes, and fashion accessories. Measurements can be taken "on the half", or total depending on the particular companies requirements.

Learn about the difference between How to Measure and Points of Measure.

How to measure a dress shirt (Proper Cloth)  

Garment Points of Measure (Designer Nexus)

Here are a few examples of how you can take measurements.

How to Measure a Hood (Fashion Industry Network) - what is a hoodie?

Suit & Sport Coat Size Chart

Shoe Measurements

Sock Sizes

Petite Sizes

Bottoms:

Inseam
: measure the inseam by starting at the center crotch seam, then measuring all the way down one leg to the hem. Be sure that the tape measure lays flat against the jeans to get an accurate measurement.

Front Rise: take the front rise measurement of the pants by measuring from the center crotch seam up to the top of the waistband.

Rear rise: flip the pants over so that the front of the pant is laying flat on the table. Measure from the center crotch seam to the top of the waistband on the backside.

Waist: measure the waits of the pants by stretching the measuring tape horizontally across the waistband while the pants are laying flat. After measuring, multiply the number by two to determine the full waist circumference (note: some size specs will indicate if the factory should use the half or full circumference measurement).

How to measure and points of measure go hand in hand.  When producing garments it is important to understand full details regarding both the points of measure and the method in which to take the measurement.

More information about this subject will follow soon.

We hope that you find this information to be helpful.  If we can do anything to help make your research easier please let us know.  If you work in the apparel industry, please join in the discussions about garment fit and size specs at the Fashion Industry Network.

Learn about tech packs in our fashion terms section.

Learn more about the rise of pants.