Checking your measurements before you send them

1. Complete, labelled and in one unit

Go down the list on the size guide and make sure every required measurement has a number. Check that each has a unit and that all of them use the same one. A 36 that is meant in inches next to a 91 in centimetres is easy to spot on paper and easy to miss on a form. Make sure any extras in the notes have a clear label, such as “upper arm” or “waist to knee”.

2. Re-measure the numbers that matter most

You do not need to repeat everything. Take bust, hips, shoulder width and kameez length again, ideally with a helper and with the tape level. If a new reading is more than about a centimetre different from the first, measure a third time and keep the two that agree. These four numbers shape the whole outfit, so they deserve the extra minute.

3. Sense checks against your body

Bodies vary enormously, so none of these means a number is wrong. They are simply worth a second look.

• Lengths against the mirror: hold the tape at the shoulder point beside your neck and let it fall to your kameez length. Is that really where you want the hem?
• Trouser length: hold the tape at your waist and check the end falls where you want the hem, in your shoes.
• Sleeve: hold the tape at your shoulder bone with your arm slightly bent. Does it reach the point you want?
• Waist larger than bust or hips? Perfectly possible, but re-measure to be sure the tape was level.
• Shoulder width: a number that seems very wide is often measured across the arms rather than from shoulder point to shoulder point.

4. Compare with a garment that fits

Lay a kameez or top that fits you well flat and measure across the chest, then double it. A garment always measures larger than the body, because it includes room to move. If your body bust measurement is larger than the garment’s, one of the two is probably wrong. Do the same for the length and sleeve. Our guide to body vs garment measurements explains why the two should differ.

5. Check them again in your written quote

Before you pay, your written quote sets out the agreed design, fabric, measurements and any customisation, together with the total cost and the policies that apply. Read the measurements line by line against your notes. If anything has been typed wrongly or a note has been missed, say so before you approve. Our guides to design approval and payment and cancellations explain those steps.

If you are ordering from the Gulf, for example from Kuwait, the checks are exactly the same. When you are ready, send your numbers through the quote form, or read more on the custom stitching page.