Fit, measuring and alterations · 8 October 2026 · 3 min read

Back neck depth: how to measure and state it

Back neck depth measurement explained: where to start the tape, typical depths in inches and cm, how bra straps and fastenings affect it, and how to write it.

Inspiration

Where the tape starts and stops

Back neck depth is measured from the bone at the base of your neck, the one that stands out when you bow your head, straight down the centre of your back to the point where you want the neckline to sit. A plain everyday back neck is usually 2.5 to 7.5 cm (1 to 3 inches) below that bone. A deep back neck is around 15 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches).

Some tailors measure from the shoulder line instead, an imaginary line between the high points of your two shoulders. That gives a slightly different figure, so always say which starting point you used.

Taking the measurement

This is much easier with a helper. Our guide to measuring with a helper has tips on what to tell them.

Bow your head and let your helper find the most prominent bone at the base of your neck.
Lift your head so you are looking straight ahead before measuring; a bowed head stretches the distance.
Wear the bra you will wear with the outfit.
Your helper runs the tape straight down your spine to where you want the neckline, and reads the number.
Ask them also to measure down to the top edge of your bra band at the back. You will need it in a moment.

Typical depths and how they look

Every body is different, so treat these as rough bands rather than rules. The look also depends on the shape, round, square or V, which you can compare on our necklines pages.

Regular, 2.5 to 10 cm (1 to 4 inches): covers your bra and straps completely; the everyday kameez back.
Medium, 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6 inches): a little dressier and still above the bra band for most women.
Deep, 15 to 23 cm (6 to 9 inches): close to, or past, the bra band for many people, so plan what you wear underneath.

Bra straps, the band and fastenings

The figure you took to the top of your bra band is your limit. If you do not want the band to show, keep the back neck depth at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) above it. Straps are about width as much as depth: a wide neckline can show them even when it is shallow, which is why a boat neck is usually kept high at the back. If you want a deep or wide back, ask in your quote about a narrower width or a way to keep straps hidden.

Depth also changes how the kameez stays on. A deep back on a loose kameez can slide off the shoulders, so it is often held at the top with a tie, a hook or a button and loop. At the other extreme, a neck that is shallow front and back may be too small to pull over your head, and then it needs an opening with buttons or a zip. Our article on plackets and buttons shows the usual options.

Writing it on your order

Give the back and front necks as separate lines, each with its starting point and shape. The front is measured differently, as our main guide to measuring for a shalwar kameez explains. For custom stitching, put lines like these in the notes on the quote form, and we confirm the neckline in your written quote before cutting:

Back neck depth: 5 inches (13 cm) from the nape bone, round shape
Front neck depth: measured from the high shoulder point, with its own shape
Back fastening: one button and loop at the top

Common questions

Is the back neck usually shallower than the front?

Yes, on most everyday kameez the back neck sits higher than the front. A deep back with a high front is a deliberate design choice, often for evening wear, and both depths should be given separately.

Can I copy the back neck of a kameez I own?

Yes. Lay it flat with the back facing up, and measure down the centre back from the line of the shoulder seams to the neckline edge. Say that it is a garment measurement and which starting line you used.

Does the fabric change how a deep back neck behaves?

It does. Soft, heavy or slightly stretchy fabrics can gape or slip at a deep back, while crisp cotton holds its shape. A facing or lining keeps the edge flatter on softer cloth.

More guides