How to measure for a made-to-measure co-ord set

Measuring for the top

Follow the size guide for bust, waist, hips, shoulder, sleeve length and top length. Even if the top is boxy, give us your hip measurement whenever the hem reaches the hip, because a boxy shape that is narrower than your hips will pull and ride up.

Decide how you will wear the top before you measure its length. Worn loose over the trousers, a co-ord top usually ends somewhere between the high hip and the middle of the thigh. If you plan to tuck it in, it needs to be long enough to stay tucked when you lift your arms: measure to a point a hand’s width below your waistband and tell us it will be tucked.

Measuring for the trousers

Trousers in a co-ord are often more tailored than a shalwar, so a few more numbers help. The trouser size guide shows each one.

• Waist, where the trousers will sit: at your natural waist for a high-rise look, or a little lower if that is where you are comfortable. Say which.
• Hips: at the fullest part. Wide-leg trousers need it as much as slim ones, because the seat has to fit before the leg can hang.
• Rise: from the waistband at the front, between the legs, to the waistband at the back. It stops trousers feeling short in the body.
• Length: from the waist down the outside of the leg to where the hem should fall, in the shoes you will wear.
• Hem width: around the opening you want at the ankle. Measuring a favourite pair laid flat and doubling it is easiest.
• Thigh: for slim or straight trousers, so they do not grip when you sit.

Getting the two pieces in proportion

A simple rule keeps most co-ords balanced: let one piece be roomier and the other neater. A relaxed, slightly longer top sits well over slim or straight trousers, while a shorter, closer top works with palazzo trousers or very wide legs.

If you are petite, a top that ends at the high hip with trousers that reach the top of your shoe lengthens the line. If you are tall, a longer top over wide trousers looks deliberate rather than short. When in doubt, choose “advise me” for length or trouser style on the form and describe how you will wear the set; we suggest options in the quote.

Waistbands, fastenings and how exact the numbers must be

The waistband changes how precise your waist measurement has to be. An elastic or drawstring waist forgives a small difference, so it suits relaxed co-ords and anyone whose waist changes through the month. A flat front with a zip or button needs an accurate waist and hip measurement, because there is no give.

Tell us your preference in the notes, along with anything else that matters to you, such as pockets or a lining. What is possible depends on the fabric and design, so we confirm it in your written quote rather than promising it in advance. The straight trousers guide explains the common finishes.

Ordering your co-ord set

If you have a two-piece unstitched suit or fabric of your own, check there is enough for both pieces in the style you want before you post anything; we confirm suitability and quantity first. If you would like us to supply the fabric, ask for a Fabric + Stitching quote. Customers in the USA can read how it works on the USA fabric and stitching page.

Measurements and design are agreed in writing before cutting, and production takes 5 to 7 working days once the quote is approved and paid in full. The whole service is described on our Fabric + Stitching page.