If measuring for clothes tailoring, some measurements will need to be taken with clothing on, such as pants measurements and shoulder measurements. If you’re a female, wear the type of undergarments you would normally wear. For example, if you normally wear a certain type of bra, wear that. If you normally bind your chest or go braless, you may prefer that. [3] X Expert Source David PewProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 5 January 2021.

This isn’t always required for drafting garments, but it’s good to know this measurement anyway. [8] X Expert Source David PewProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 5 January 2021.

You might also take the half back measurement, which is taken further down the shoulder blades out to the armhole of the garment. [9] X Expert Source David PewProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 5 January 2021.

This will help account for the fact that the cuff will move up the arm when the arm is extended, ensuring that your sleeve measurement is not too short.

A tailor might also prefer to start measuring from the nape of your neck down to your waist. This is called your waist height. [10] X Expert Source David PewProfessional Tailor Expert Interview. 5 January 2021.

Keep in mind that bras may fit differently depending on their type. You may need a larger cup than normal, for example, with push-up bras. As with any clothing, it is also possible for bra sizes to run small or large as well.

0-1/2 = AA 1/2-1 = A 2 = B 3 = C 4 = D 5 = DD This measurement system tends to be inaccurate for larger cup sizes and the system for your preferred brand should be followed.