Indian clothing is renowned for its vibrant colors, intricate designs, and rich cultural heritage. When it comes to buying or making Indian clothes, accurate measurements are crucial to ensure a perfect fit. This guide will walk you through the essential measurements for Indian clothes, helping you achieve the best possible look and comfort.
Understanding Indian Clothing Measurements
Before diving into the specifics, it’s essential to understand the basic measurements used in Indian clothing. Unlike Western clothing, Indian garments often require more precise measurements due to their unique designs and fits. The measurements typically include:
– Bust
– Waist
– Hips
– Inseam
– Shoulder
– Sleeve length
– Neck
Measuring for Traditional Indian Garments
Sarees
Sarees are one of the most iconic pieces of Indian clothing, and measuring for a saree requires attention to detail. Here are the key measurements to consider:
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust. This measurement is crucial for determining the right size of the saree’s pallu (the draped part) and the blouse.
2. Waist
Measure around your natural waistline, which is typically the smallest part of your waist. This measurement helps in determining the fit of the saree’s waistband.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This measurement is important for ensuring the saree drapes correctly and sits comfortably.
4. Inseam
Measure from your waist to the floor. This measurement is necessary for determining the length of the saree’s pleats and the overall length of the garment.
Salwar Kameez
Salwar Kameez is another popular Indian outfit consisting of a tunic (kameez), trousers (salwar), and a dupatta. Measuring for a Salwar Kameez involves several key measurements:
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust. This measurement is crucial for determining the fit of the kameez.
2. Waist
Measure around your natural waistline. This measurement helps in determining the fit of the kameez and salwar.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This measurement is important for ensuring the salwar fits comfortably.
4. Inseam
Measure from your waist to the floor. This measurement is necessary for determining the length of the salwar.
Lehenga Choli
Lehenga Choli is a traditional Indian outfit consisting of a long skirt (lehenga), a blouse (choli), and a dupatta. Measuring for Lehenga Choli involves several key measurements:
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust. This measurement is crucial for determining the fit of the choli.
2. Waist
Measure around your natural waistline. This measurement helps in determining the fit of the choli and lehenga.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This measurement is important for ensuring the lehenga fits comfortably.
4. Inseam
Measure from your waist to the floor. This measurement is necessary for determining the length of the lehenga.
Sherwani
A Sherwani is a long coat or jacket worn over a kurta and salwar. Measuring for a Sherwani involves several key measurements:
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust. This measurement is crucial for determining the fit of the Sherwani.
2. Waist
Measure around your natural waistline. This measurement helps in determining the fit of the Sherwani.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This measurement is important for ensuring the Sherwani fits comfortably.
4. Shoulder
Measure from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other. This measurement is necessary for determining the fit of the Sherwani’s shoulder seams.
Kurti
A Kurti is a short or long tunic worn with leggings or salwar. Measuring for a Kurti involves several key measurements:
1. Bust
Measure around the fullest part of your bust. This measurement is crucial for determining the fit of the Kurti.
2. Waist
Measure around your natural waistline. This measurement helps in determining the fit of the Kurti.
3. Hips
Measure around the fullest part of your hips. This measurement is important for ensuring the Kurti fits comfortably.
4. Inseam
Measure from your waist to the floor. This measurement is necessary for determining the length of the Kurti.
Dupatta
A Dupatta is a long scarf worn with Indian outfits. Measuring for a Dupatta involves a few key measurements:
1. Shoulder
Measure from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other. This measurement is necessary for determining the length of the Dupatta.
2. Sleeve length
Measure from the shoulder to the wrist. This measurement is important for ensuring the Dupatta drapes correctly.
Measuring Techniques
Accurate measurements are crucial for a perfect fit. Here are some tips for measuring accurately:
Using a Tape Measure
A flexible tape measure is the most accurate tool for measuring clothing. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted while measuring.
Measuring Yourself
Measure yourself in a well-fitting, comfortable outfit. This will give you a more accurate measurement of your body’s dimensions.
Taking Measurements
1. Bust: Stand straight and wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your bust.
2. Waist: Measure around your natural waistline, typically the smallest part of your waist.
3. Hips: Measure around the fullest part of your hips.
4. Inseam: Measure from your waist to the floor.
5. Shoulder: Measure from the tip of one shoulder to the tip of the other.
6. Sleeve length: Measure from the shoulder to the wrist.
Using a Mirror
Using a mirror can help you ensure that the tape measure is placed correctly and that you are measuring accurately.
Common Measurement Mistakes
Not Measuring Accurately
Inaccurate measurements can lead to ill-fitting clothes. Ensure that you measure yourself accurately and use a flexible tape measure.
Not Considering Body Shape
Different body shapes require different measurements. Consider your body shape when measuring and choosing the right fit.
Not Taking Measurements in the Correct Position
Measurements should be taken in the correct position to ensure accuracy. For example, measure your waist at the natural waistline, not the smallest part of your waist.
Choosing the Right Size
Once you have your measurements, you can use them to choose the right size for your Indian clothes. Most Indian clothing brands provide size charts that you can use to determine the appropriate size based on your measurements.
Size Charts
Size charts are available online and in-store. They provide a range of measurements for different sizes, allowing you to compare your measurements to the size chart and choose the right fit.
Custom Measurements
If you find that standard sizes do not fit you well, consider having your clothes custom-made. A tailor can take your measurements and create a garment that fits you perfectly.
Conclusion
Accurate measurements are essential for achieving a perfect fit in Indian clothes. By understanding the key measurements and using the right techniques, you can ensure that your Indian garments fit you well and look great. Whether you are buying or making Indian clothes, taking the time to measure accurately will result in a more comfortable and flattering fit. Happy shopping and sewing!
FAQs
How do I measure my bust for Indian clothes?
Measure around the fullest part of your bust using a flexible tape measure. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted while measuring.
What is the difference between bust and chest measurements?
Bust measurement refers to the fullest part of your bust, while chest measurement refers to the distance between your nipples. For Indian clothes, bust measurement is typically used.
How do I measure my waist for Indian clothes?
Measure around your natural waistline, typically the smallest part of your waist. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted while measuring.
How do I measure my hips for Indian clothes?
Measure around the fullest part of your hips using a flexible tape measure. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted while measuring.
How do I measure my inseam for Indian clothes?
Measure from your waist to the floor using a flexible tape measure. Ensure the tape measure is straight and not twisted while measuring.
Can I use a size chart to determine my measurements?
Yes, size charts are available online and in-store. They provide a range of measurements for different sizes, allowing you to compare your measurements to the size chart and choose the right fit.
What should I do if standard sizes do not fit me well?
If standard sizes do not fit you well, consider having your clothes custom-made. A tailor can take your measurements and create a garment that fits you perfectly.
References
1. [Indian Clothing Measurements Guide](https://www.example.com/indian-clothing-measurements)
2. [How to Measure Yourself for Indian Clothes](https://www.example.com/how-to-measure-yourself)
3. [Indian Clothing Size Chart](https://www.example.com/indian-clothing-size-chart)
4. [Custom Made Indian Clothes](https://www.example.com/custom-made-indian-clothes)
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of measurements for Indian clothes. By following these tips and techniques, you can ensure that your Indian garments fit you perfectly and look great. Happy shopping and sewing!