How to Measure For Size in Children's Clothing

Finding the right size for your child can saveflat and always use the seams.
everyone time and money when ordering on line. TheCHEST: Measure armpit to armpit from the seams.
measurements given in a size chart are usually theDouble the measurement.
measurements of the piece of clothing, not the child.SLEEVE LENGTH: Measure from the seam on top of
The best way to get accurate measurements is tothe shoulder to the end of the sleeve.
measure a piece of clothing that fits the child well.SHOULDER WIDTH: Measure from seam to seam at
Use a measuring tape, not a ruler!. If you measurethe tops of the shoulders.
the child (and not a piece of clothing), you will needWAIST: Measure from end to end and double. The
to add extra inches for the child to fit into the piecepants should be flat with the fly facing towards you
of clothing. For example, a child with a 25 inch chestwith the button closed.
will not be able to fit into a dress with a 25 inchINSEAM: Measure from the seam at the crotch to
chest.the end of the pant leg.
Children are often in between sizes. In this case, it isDRESS LENGTH: Measure from the top of the
always best to go with the larger size. It is muchshoulder to the bottom of the dress.
easier to have clothing altered if it is too big ratherOnce you have taken these measurements from the
than too small. When ordering special occasion wear,piece of clothing, check them against the
it is very common to need to have a dress or suitmanufacturer's size chart. If the measurements
altered. Casual or every day wear will work if it is acorrespond to more than one size, you will most
little large and you definitely want your child to belikely need to select the larger size. When in doubt, it
able to grow into their clothes.is a good idea to contact the store you are ordering
MEASURING INSTRUCTIONSfrom for clarification.
Find a piece of clothing that fits your child well. Lay it