Size vs. Measurements

The listed size is our recommendation for the best fit. The measurements listed in the description are the actual measurements of the garment.

How to know your measurements

We list the most relevant measurements to the garment’s fit. These are actual measurements, not sizes. Many modern pieces have vanity sizing, which means the number size does not always equal the actual measurement.

Use a cloth measuring tape for a more accurate reading. A rigid metal tape may skew measurement readings, so use a cloth measuring tape instead. Avoid using a measurement tape that stretches, too, as this may cause inaccurate measurements. 

Place the measuring tape properly around the intended body part. Hold the tape measure level around the body and roughly parallel to the floor. It is recommended to take body measurements while standing and against bare skin as opposed to over clothes. Also, do not pull the tape too tight, nor drape too loosely. Ideally, the tape should be slightly snug and no more than one finger should fit through it. 

Tip: Measure a similar item from your closet that fits you well for best reference.

• Chest: Place one end of the tape measure around the fullest/widest part of the chest, then wrap under the armpits. It should be over the shoulder blades and back-to-front.

• Underbust: This measurement is often used for empire-waist styles. Measure the circumference of your ribcage underneath the bust.

• Waist: Circle the tape measure around the waist, much like a belt at the natural waistline. Relax the breath and avoid sucking in the stomach when taking the measurement.

• Waist Length: A vertical measurement from the top of your shoulder to the natural waist.

• Hips: Starting at one hip, wrap the tape measure around the widest part of the hipbone. Circle around the glutes and the other hip before returning back to the start point.

• Across Shoulder: Find the outermost point of your shoulder from the back and measure straight across to the same spot on the other side.

• Sleeve Length: Measure the length from the top of the shoulder to the bottom of your wrist bone.

• Inseam: Measure from the top seam of the inner thigh (crotch area) to the ankle from the inside of the leg.

• Rise: This is the length of the front of the pants from the center seam (crotch) to the top of the pant.

• Shoes: Because shoe sizes vary wildly in vintage, we provide measurements of both the insole and outsole, as well as width and heel height. An insole measurement goes from the inside of the shoe from the toe to the heel, while the outsole measurement includes the entire length of the exterior sole of the shoe from toe to heel. Width measurements are taken at the widest part of the shoe (ball width).

Remember, tailoring is always an option

In the past, everyone went to the tailor or altered their clothing themselves. If you want your clothing to fit really well, a tailor can help. Keep in mind that items are easier to take in than let out and the fabric inside the garment may be a slightly different color than the rest of the garment.

Any questions?

If you aren’t sure if something will fit or would like more measurements, please contact us. We’d be happy to help you figure it out.