Have you ever bought a coat online only to find it fits completely wrong once it arrives? We've all been there! Accurately measuring a coat is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit, whether you're shopping online, tailoring an existing coat, or even sewing your own. A well-fitting coat not only looks better but also provides the optimal warmth and functionality you need, protecting you from the elements in style.
Ill-fitting coats can be uncomfortable, restrict movement, and ultimately, end up gathering dust in the back of your closet. Mastering the art of coat measurement means you can confidently make informed decisions, avoid costly returns, and enjoy a perfectly tailored outerwear piece that enhances your wardrobe. Understanding the key measurements and how to take them correctly is an invaluable skill for any fashion-conscious individual.
What are the essential coat measurements and how do I take them accurately?
How do I accurately measure coat length?
To accurately measure coat length, lay the coat flat on a hard surface like a table or the floor. Then, using a flexible measuring tape, measure from the highest point of the shoulder (where the shoulder seam meets the collar) straight down to the bottom hem of the coat, keeping the measuring tape taut but not stretched.
A common mistake is taking the measurement while the coat is hanging, as gravity can distort the fabric and result in an inaccurate length. Ensuring the coat is laid flat removes this variable. Furthermore, make sure the shoulder is properly aligned and flat before measuring. If the shoulder seam is bunching up, gently smooth it out to ensure a precise start point for your measurement. It's also beneficial to double-check the measurement to minimize any potential errors. For coats with a more complex hemline, such as a curved or asymmetrical one, measure to the longest point of the hem. This will give you the overall length of the coat. In cases where a belt is intended to alter the perceived length, remember the unaltered measurement from shoulder to hem is still the standard "coat length" specification.Where on the shoulder should I measure coat width?
Measure the shoulder width of a coat straight across the back, from the prominent shoulder seam on one side to the prominent shoulder seam on the other side. This measurement should be taken with the coat laid flat and buttoned or zipped closed, ensuring the back is smooth and wrinkle-free.
To elaborate, locating the correct points for measurement is crucial for an accurate assessment of shoulder width. The "prominent shoulder seam" refers to the point where the shoulder panel of the coat meets the sleeve. Often, this seam will have a slightly raised or more defined appearance. Carefully feel along the shoulder to identify this distinct seam. Be sure you are measuring from seam to seam on the *back* of the coat, not the front. The goal is to measure the effective horizontal distance of the shoulder, not the total length of the shoulder panel itself. This is why the measurement is taken straight across. Using a flexible measuring tape will help ensure the most precise result. Slight variations can occur depending on the coat's construction and padding, so take the measurement a couple of times to ensure consistency.What's the best way to measure sleeve length for a coat?
The best way to measure sleeve length for a coat is to measure from the center back of the neck, over the shoulder point, and down to the wrist bone with your arm slightly bent. This ensures you get an accurate measurement that accounts for the natural curve of your arm and the coat's shoulder construction.
To get the most accurate measurement, have someone else assist you. Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides but slightly bent. Have your helper locate the center back of your neck (where a shirt collar would typically sit). From that point, run the measuring tape over the top of your shoulder bone and down the outside of your arm to your wrist bone (the prominent bone on the outside of your wrist). It's crucial that the tape follows the natural curve of your shoulder and arm, avoiding a straight line. Keep in mind that coats are often designed with a slightly longer sleeve length than shirts to allow for layering underneath. Consider the types of clothing you'll typically wear under the coat when determining your ideal sleeve length. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a sleeve length that ends about an inch or two beyond your wrist bone, covering the cuff of your shirt or sweater underneath. If you are measuring an existing coat, lay the coat flat, measure across the back from shoulder seam to shoulder seam, divide by two, then measure from the shoulder seam along the outside of the sleeve to the cuff. Add the two numbers together to calculate the total sleeve length.How do I measure the chest for a coat fitting?
To accurately measure your chest for a coat fitting, stand naturally with your arms relaxed at your sides. Have someone else measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping the measuring tape horizontal and snug but not tight. Breathe normally during the measurement.
For the most precise chest measurement, avoid measuring over bulky clothing. Wear a light t-shirt or undergarment. The measuring tape should be level all the way around your body. If you're measuring yourself, stand in front of a mirror to ensure the tape is horizontal in both the front and back. It's much easier and more accurate to have a friend or family member assist you. Once you have the measurement, add a little ease depending on the coat's intended fit and the layers you plan to wear underneath. For a tailored coat, adding 1-2 inches might suffice. For a more relaxed or overcoat style, adding 3-4 inches could be better. This "ease" ensures that you can move comfortably and wear sweaters or other garments without the coat feeling restrictive.Is there a difference between measuring a tailored vs. casual coat?
Yes, while the fundamental principles of measuring a coat remain the same regardless of its style, the *specific points* of measurement and the *importance placed on precision* can differ significantly between tailored and casual coats. Tailored coats, designed for a more precise and structured fit, demand meticulous measurements focusing on areas like shoulder width, chest circumference, and waist suppression. Casual coats, with their looser and often more forgiving silhouettes, allow for a bit more leniency in measurement and may prioritize overall length and sleeve length over exact body contouring.
Tailored coats are often measured with more attention to detail because they are designed to conform closely to the wearer's body. Precise measurements ensure a clean, flattering fit that enhances the wearer's silhouette. Areas like the chest, waist, and hips are crucial and need to be accurately measured to avoid a boxy or ill-fitting appearance. Shoulder width is also incredibly important, as a poorly fitted shoulder will ruin the entire look of a tailored coat. When measuring for tailored coats, it's best to wear a shirt and potentially a thin sweater similar to what would be worn under the coat. Casual coats, conversely, often prioritize comfort and layering. Consequently, measurements may focus on providing sufficient room for movement and layering. While shoulder width and overall length are still important, the emphasis on precise chest and waist measurements may be reduced. The goal is a relaxed and comfortable fit, rather than a sculpted one. Furthermore, ease is often factored into the measurement process for casual coats, meaning adding a few extra inches to key measurements to ensure a comfortable fit. This is especially true if the coat is intended to be worn with bulky sweaters or other thick layers.How do you measure the sweep or hem circumference of a coat?
To measure the sweep or hem circumference of a coat, lay the coat flat, buttoned, on a large surface. Measure the width of the hem from one side seam to the other, then double that measurement to get the total circumference. For unbuttoned or open-front coats, overlap the front edges as they would naturally close when worn before measuring.
The sweep is the measurement around the very bottom edge of the coat. It's crucial to ensure the coat is lying completely flat and smooth to obtain an accurate measurement. Any wrinkles or folds in the fabric will distort the measurement, leading to an incorrect result. For lined coats, make sure the lining is also smoothed out. If the coat has pleats, vents, or other design details at the hem, account for these. Measure as if the pleats are closed or the vents are lying flat, unless the design specifically dictates otherwise (e.g., a permanently open vent). Measuring the sweep is especially important when determining if the coat will fit comfortably around the hips and legs, especially when seated. A coat that is too tight at the hem will restrict movement and be uncomfortable. Keep in mind that heavier fabrics, like wool, may have less give than lighter fabrics. When buying online, compare the sweep measurement provided by the seller to a coat you already own that fits well in that area.What's the best way to measure coat waist or midsection?
The best way to measure a coat's waist or midsection is to lay the coat flat, buttoned up, on a smooth surface. Locate the narrowest point of the coat's silhouette, usually between the bottom of the armholes and the hem. Measure straight across this point from one side seam to the other, then double that measurement to get the total waist circumference.
Identifying the natural waist point is crucial. Some coats are designed with a defined waist, while others have a more relaxed or straight fit. If the coat has shaping or darts that clearly define a waist, use that as your guide. If it's less defined, visually assess the coat to find the area where it appears most narrow when buttoned. Make sure the coat is lying flat and wrinkle-free before measuring to ensure an accurate reading. Avoid pulling or stretching the fabric, as this can distort the measurement.
It's also important to note that waist measurements in coats can vary significantly depending on the style and intended fit. A fitted coat will naturally have a smaller waist measurement than a more oversized or boxy style. When comparing measurements to a size chart, consider the coat's overall design and the desired fit. If you prefer a looser fit, you might want to choose a size with a slightly larger waist measurement. Alternatively, if you're tailoring the coat, this measurement is essential for achieving the desired shape.
And that's all there is to it! Measuring your coat might seem a little fiddly, but now you've got all the info you need for a perfect fit. Thanks so much for reading, and we hope this guide helped you out. Come back and visit us again soon for more helpful tips and tricks!